Wrist & bounce technique
The wrist & bounce technique focuses on the movement of the wrist AND the rebound of the drumstick to perform strokes on the drum kit. It is particularly useful for smooth and even stroke sequences.
This technique is an important foundation for drumming and is used in various music styles, such as rock and pop. Through regular practice and the development of a precise wrist & bounce technique, you can improve your technical skills on the drums with this technique alone.
Here is a detailed description of the wrist & bounce technique:
The movement starts with a firm hand position in the American grip above the drumhead, while the wrist shows a natural bend (basic position).
Through a controlled upward hand movement, followed by a slight downward impact of the wrist, the drumstick and hand are lowered in a controlled manner onto the drumhead.
After contact with the drumhead, there is a rebound, during which the drumstick and hand swing back up, creating a natural movement that prepares for the next stroke.
Moeller Technique
The Moeller technique is an advanced hand technique practised by Sanford A. Moeller and based on a unique whip movement. This technique allows you to execute strokes with increased speed, efficiency and dynamics. The Moeller technique is based on a fluid movement that leads from the elbow to the forearm to the wrist and finally to the hand. This movement is similar to a whip movement and uses the natural energy of the arm to bring the drumstick to the striking surface.
The Moeller technique requires patience, practice and careful attention to the movements of the elbow in conjunction with the arm and wrist. Through regular training, you can improve your skills with this technique and develop a dynamic and expressive playing style.
A little tip: the movement of the elbow is reduced in the so-called ‘pumping motion’.
Here is a detailed description of the Moeller technique:
- You start with a relaxed hand position and a loose grip around the drumstick, e.g. German or American grip.
- The movement begins with a slight sideways movement of the elbow and lifting of the wrist (upstroke).
- When the stick has reached the desired height, it is lowered onto the striking surface with a quick sideways movement of the elbow, a twist of the wrist and a controlled downward swing (downstroke).
- After contact with the striking surface, the drumstick and hand swing upwards (flyback).
- This is followed by one or more tap strokes and subsequent repetitions, e.g. up – down – tap.
finger technique
Unlike other techniques, such as the wrist bounce technique, the finger technique focuses on the movement of the fingers. This technique allows you to achieve high speeds because smaller muscle groups are used, enabling both faster and more precise playing. For singles, doubles and other rudiments, the finger technique supports precise execution and control of the strokes, promoting a versatile playing style.
The finger technique is an indispensable technique for drummers in various musical styles, including jazz, Latin, fusion and more. Through continuous training and the development of a precise finger technique, you can refine your playing technique and expand your musical expressiveness.
Here is a detailed description of the finger technique:
- The hand position starts in the French grip position.
- The drumstick is placed between the thumb, index finger and middle finger, creating a triangular shape between the fingers (triangle grip).
- The fingers open slightly to lift the stick and then close again to guide the stick downwards and produce the beat.
- This movement is performed in a flowing and rhythmic manner to enable a consistent beat.
Push/Pull technique
The push-pull technique is an advanced drumming technique based on alternating push and pull movements.
The push-pull technique offers you an effective way to improve your hand technique and develop a versatile playing style. It is ideal for double strokes, among other things.
Here is a detailed description of the push/pull technique:
- Push movement:
In the push movement, you press the drumstick down onto the striking surface while opening your fingers. The energy comes from the forearm and/or wrist movement, with the thumb acting as a hinge. - Pull movement:
The pull movement involves pulling the drumstick back from the drum while closing your fingers again, with the energy coming from the relaxation of your hand and wrist. - Coordination:
The push-pull technique requires precise coordination between push and pull movements to create a continuous flow of beats. - Dynamics:
The interplay of push and pull movements allows you to create a wide range of dynamics and nuances, from soft ghost notes to powerful accents.