How to Play a 4 Stroke Roll on the Drums

The drum roll is one of the most common fills in percussion. It is widely known, even by those who are not drummers. What is not so widely known is the fact that there are several different types of drum rolls that one can play. One of the more basic drum rolls is the 4 stroke drum roll. As the name suggests, the roll is played with 4 strokes. Learning how to play a 4 stroke roll on the drums is fairly simple and straightforward, and can be relied on as a consistent component to your playing.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Drumsticks, brushes or rods
• Drum

1. Select either drumsticks or rods to play the 4 stroke roll. You will base your decision on the sound you want to accomplish. For a quieter, crisper sound, choose drumsticks. For a stronger, bolder sound, select rods. Brushes are not favored when playing rolls.

2. Strike the drum with your right stick.

3. Strike the drum with the left stick immediately after completing Step 2.

4. Strike the drum with the right stick immediately after completing Step 3.

5. Strike the drum with the left stick immediately after completing Step 4.

6. Practice this progression, getting faster and faster as you go. Get to where you can play it very fast, so that it sounds like a roll.

7. Practice playing the 4 stroke roll on various drums in your set, one right after the other. This will make for a great fill.

Tips & Warnings

• The 4 stroke roll is best played on several drums in quick succession.

Resources

• Video Tutorial