Ask an Expert: Archive

Q: How can I improve the speed and quality of my drum rudiments?

Start by going back to basics and learn the rudiment by its motion rather than the rhythm. Break down the rudiment by stroke type (full stroke, down stroke, up stroke, and tap stroke). Isolate the motion of each stroke to understand how your hands have to move for each stroke. Practice the rudiment by separating the motion of each hand before you combine the hands. It’s helpful to practice the rudiment starting slowly and gradually accelerating to the top speed that you can control. Then, reverse the process and gradually slow down. This slow-fast-slow “breakdown” of each rudiment will help increase your speed and endurance.

Jim Campbell
University of Kentucky

The best way to develop speed is to develop the style and grace of playing slow. This is where you identify all the little nuances in your technique and you can put some thought into how you’re approaching the rudiment. Remember the idea behind playing slow is to emulate or re-create the motion used at a faster tempo.
The use of rebound from the drum as well as the quality of sound are also found at slow tempos. Then as the speed increase’s you will gradually utilize different muscle groups to varying degrees. Remember, drumming is a combination of fingers, wrists and arms.

Bret Kuhn