Get a GRIP!

For band teachers who are not using drum line, this guide is for you.

If you want your percussion section to efficiently go from snare drum to mallets to tympani, I highly recommend teaching students the German or American Grip. This is matched grip with palms facing down, sticks in a “piece of pie” form, and moving from the wrists.

Why? Simplicity and ease of movement between instrument groups. This grip of a straight down-up motion from the wrist translates to all of the percussion instruments. Focussing on playing full strokes with palms down is a skill that is invaluable. Always begin the year with full stroke exercises with the focus on playing slowly, with control and correct position. A full stroke can be played at any dynamic level, and, when played correctly, the stroke height is what determines dynamics.

First, you need to work on a correct grip. Start by grabbing the stick 1/3 up from the butt/base of the stick. It should be relaxed, but in control. Kind of like picking up a lady bug. Not enough pressure, the stick will fly away. Too much pressure, and the stick will not move well with the tension created with gripping too tight. Once you have the stick in between the thumb and top knuckle, on the side of the finger, then create a small space between fingers 1 and 2. Then let the back 3 fingers grip the back of the stick.

Now onto full strokes.

Big stroke height = Loud

Small stroke heights = Quiet

A full stroke begins and ends in the same position.

1) Begin with sticks in “piece of pie” position, resting on the drum head

2) Check your fulcrum (between thumb and first knuckle)

3) Determine your dynamic to practice, and lift from the WRISTS to your desired dynamic height

4) Play a down-up stroke, beginning and ending at the same height. Using a mirror when practicing will help

5) Practice single strokes in this manner at all dynamic ranges/stroke heights to learn how to control the sound produced out of your drum

Other things to consider: Is the snare drum/practice pad set up flat and low enough for the student to play comfortably?

Grip will be relaxed, but in control. Using heights rather than velocity/pressure to create dynamics will help with developing speed and accuracy.

Now go and take your drum and beat it!