Welcome to the world of drumming! I'm Geoff, a professional drummer with over 20 years of teaching and performing experience, and today I'm excited to share with you a fantastic YouTube drum lesson that will teach beginner drummers the essentials of playing the drum kit.
In this video, I will cover different types of grips, how to hold a drumstick, and provided valuable advice on developing your own technique allowing you to learn to play drums. Remember, practice is key to becoming a great drummer, and you can always find more about private lessons with me at www.geoff-fry.com.
Now, let's dive into the lesson.
To begin your drumming journey, it's essential to learn the basics of holding drumsticks using the German grip and French grip. Proper grip technique is crucial for control, precision, and power, so let's explore the key elements of each grip.
1. German Grip: The German grip is characterised by a relaxed, palms-down hand position. To achieve this grip, follow these steps:
Hold the drumstick loosely between your thumb and index finger, with the remaining fingers gently resting on the stick.
Your wrists should be flat, and your arms should form an angle of around 90 degrees.
When playing, use a combination of wrist and finger movements to generate the necessary force, with the wrist motion being the primary source.
2. French Grip: The French features a thumbs-up hand position, offering control and a light touch. Here's how to master the French grip:
Hold the drumstick between your thumb and index finger, similar to the German grip, but with your thumbnails facing upward towards the ceiling.
Your wrists should be in a neutral relaxed position, and your arms and elbows should be close to your body.
When playing, use more finger movements than wrist movements, focusing on finesse and control.
Now that we've covered the basics of each grip, it's essential to understand three critical aspects of successful grip technique: wristband, pivot, and rebound of the stick. By mastering these techniques, you'll be able to create a smooth bounce back and play with both your right and left hand using the match grip or French grip.
To develop your grip technique, practice the following exercises:
One Hand at a Time: Focus on one hand at a time, playing a figure-eight pattern to feel the difference between the German, French, and American grips. Pay attention to the nuances of each grip and how they affect your control, speed, and power.
Single Strokes: Once comfortable with each grip, practice single strokes, alternating between your right and left hand. This exercise will help you develop the coordination and control necessary to play more complex patterns and rhythms.
As you work on these exercises, remember that everyone's body is different, and your techniques may vary slightly from one drummer to another. Embrace these differences and develop your own unique style, as this will ultimately lead to a more enjoyable and fulfilling drumming experience.
Conclusion:
This YouTube drum lesson is an excellent starting point for beginner drummers eager to learn the basics of playing the drum kit. With guidance on different types of grips and techniques, you'll be well on your way to developing your own unique drumming style. Remember, keep working on those techniques to refine your skills.
If you're interested in private lessons, don't hesitate to visit www.geoff-fry.com for more information.
Happy drumming!
Watch the full YouTube video lesson here:https://youtu.be/chWkvMVgKfo