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Learning to drum

Learning to Drum *Written by Cat Harvey  (http://www.copycatwriter.com)  There are a variety of grip styles that can be used on the drumstick when playing the drums. Some constants are that they should be held between the thumb and index finger, about a third of the way up the stick. It's important that the sticks be balanced and allow for a good swing. Finding the balance is tricky at first, but becomes second nature as playing progresses. We'll look at the two main grip distinctions here. Traditional Grip This style grip is very common in jazz drumming and in corps drumming. Corp drummers carry their drum on their hip. It's difficult to use a matched grip, where the stick is held the same in both hands. Also, the traditional grip is a softer tap. Rather than gripping the sticks, they rest in the pocket of the thumb and index finger. Find the balance, and rest the stick on your last two fingers. Matched Grip This is the style grip that's popular in rock drumming, and i...

Teaching Kids

Teaching Kids To Play The Drums *Written by Cat Harvey (http://www.copycatwriter.com)  It's a noisy hobby, but one that can be very enjoyable and rewarding for a child. It's a great way to encourage self-expression, creativity, and an appreciation of all music. It can be a big investment, or as simple as a set of sticks and a practice drum pad. If you are thinking about giving drum lessons to kids, consider these points as you begin the journey. Drums have been used as a means of self-expression for a long, long time. The various rhythms have been used as a means of communication between humans. We see them in marching bands, in African tribal celebrations, and in Native American ceremonies, to name a few. Many cultures have used drums expressively over the years, and they can take on a spiritual aspect. Today, drum circles are a big thing. A group of people sit in a circle and play hand drums. The idea is that sharing the rhythms with one another will develop into a collective...