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"Grip" or "hand position" refers to the way you hold your drumsticks.
traditional Vs. matched
traditional Vs. matched
There are two major techniques used for snare drum: matched grip and traditional grip.
MATCHED
MATCHED
The drumsticks are held the same way in each hand, in an overhand grip with the palms facing downward.
Name origin: The right and left hands are mirrored or “matched.”
Common settings: Concert band, marching band, jazz band (drum set), orchestra
TRADITIONAL
TRADITIONAL
The right hand stays overhand, as in matched grip, but the left hand holds the drumstick in an underhand grip, with the palm facing upward.
Name origin: This grip was traditionally used by military marching drummers because of the angle of the slung drum. Today’s drum harnesses and stands generally keep the drum level, but this grip is still sometimes used for reasons of style and preference.
Common settings: Marching band, jazz band (drum set)
WHICH ONE SHOULD I USE?
WHICH ONE SHOULD I USE?
This website focuses on MATCHED grip for the following reasons:
It is often easier to start with, since both hands will go through the same motions.
It better fits the stands and harness used for today’s drums.
It is more transferable to the grip used for other percussion instruments.
Don't worry... Traditional grip CAN be learned later!
MATCHED Grip instructions
MATCHED Grip instructions
Hold the stick between your thumb and the first joint of your index finger, one-third of the way from the butt to the tip of the stick. If you're using a Vic Firth drumstick, you can place your thumb right on the flag.
Close the other fingers around the stick loosely.
***All fingers should always touch the stick! Think about your fingerprints staying on the drumstick.***
Turn your hand so that your palm is facing downward. The drumstick should be in line with your wrist and forearm, acting as a natural extension of the body. The movement to strike the drum mostly involves the wrist joint moving up and down, as if you are cracking a whip or casting from a fishing rod. There should only be minimal arm movement.
Repeat this process with your other hand.
COMMON PROBLEMS
COMMON PROBLEMS
Fly away fingers!
Big gaps!
Pointer fingers on sticks!
Thumb nails facing up!
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