Starting out on the drums can be a bit overwhelming, especially when switching from sticks to brushes. But don’t worry! With some practice and patience, you can learn how to use brushes well. Let’s look at the right way to use them, especially for beginners who want to add different sounds to their drumming.
Before we get into how to use brushes, let's understand what they are.
Brushes are different from regular drumsticks. Instead of a solid tip, they have thin wires or nylon strings. This helps them make a softer sound. Brushes are often used in jazz, blues, and softer rock music because they create a gentler tone. Here are the main types of brushes you might find:
Just like with drumsticks, holding brushes the right way is very important. Here’s how to grip them:
Hold It Like a Stick: Grab the brush like you would a drumstick. Put it between your thumb and index finger, and let the other fingers wrap around the handle lightly.
Balance the Brush: Make sure the weight is towards the back of the brush. This helps you control it better, especially when playing tricky patterns.
Stay Relaxed: Keep your grip loose. Holding too tightly can make it harder to move smoothly.
Now that you know how to hold brushes, let’s practice some basic techniques. Here are a few strokes you should try:
Rim Shots: Hit the rim and the drumhead at the same time. This makes a sharp sound that’s great for adding emphasis.
Swirling Movements: Move the brush in circles to create softer sounds. This adds a nice touch to your drumming.
Sizzle Sticks: Some brushes can make a ‘sizzle’ sound by brushing the snare wire while you play. This is especially cool for jazz!
Getting used to brushes may feel different from using sticks. Here are some exercises to help you feel comfortable:
Single Stroke Roll: Start by tapping the snare drum with single strokes using your brushes. This helps you get used to dynamics and control.
Back and Forth Motion: Tap the brush on the drum back and forth. Try to speed up while keeping a steady sound.
Swivel Patterns: Use your arms in a coordinated way. Keep your elbows relaxed for smooth movement. This helps you change sounds and rhythms easily.
When you get the hang of using brushes, you can start mixing them with sticks. Here are some tips for switching between the two:
Know When to Use What: Some songs need the powerful sound of sticks, while others work better with the soft touch of brushes. Pay attention to what fits each song.
Practice Switching: Use a metronome to practice moving between brushes and sticks. This will help you switch easily while playing.
Use in Songs: Pick a song you enjoy that uses both brushes and sticks. Practice going back and forth as you play along.
Learning to use brushes can really improve your drumming skills. Take your time, keep practicing, and don't be shy about trying different music styles. With patience, you’ll see that using brushes will become a big part of your drumming journey. Happy drumming!
Starting out on the drums can be a bit overwhelming, especially when switching from sticks to brushes. But don’t worry! With some practice and patience, you can learn how to use brushes well. Let’s look at the right way to use them, especially for beginners who want to add different sounds to their drumming.
Before we get into how to use brushes, let's understand what they are.
Brushes are different from regular drumsticks. Instead of a solid tip, they have thin wires or nylon strings. This helps them make a softer sound. Brushes are often used in jazz, blues, and softer rock music because they create a gentler tone. Here are the main types of brushes you might find:
Just like with drumsticks, holding brushes the right way is very important. Here’s how to grip them:
Hold It Like a Stick: Grab the brush like you would a drumstick. Put it between your thumb and index finger, and let the other fingers wrap around the handle lightly.
Balance the Brush: Make sure the weight is towards the back of the brush. This helps you control it better, especially when playing tricky patterns.
Stay Relaxed: Keep your grip loose. Holding too tightly can make it harder to move smoothly.
Now that you know how to hold brushes, let’s practice some basic techniques. Here are a few strokes you should try:
Rim Shots: Hit the rim and the drumhead at the same time. This makes a sharp sound that’s great for adding emphasis.
Swirling Movements: Move the brush in circles to create softer sounds. This adds a nice touch to your drumming.
Sizzle Sticks: Some brushes can make a ‘sizzle’ sound by brushing the snare wire while you play. This is especially cool for jazz!
Getting used to brushes may feel different from using sticks. Here are some exercises to help you feel comfortable:
Single Stroke Roll: Start by tapping the snare drum with single strokes using your brushes. This helps you get used to dynamics and control.
Back and Forth Motion: Tap the brush on the drum back and forth. Try to speed up while keeping a steady sound.
Swivel Patterns: Use your arms in a coordinated way. Keep your elbows relaxed for smooth movement. This helps you change sounds and rhythms easily.
When you get the hang of using brushes, you can start mixing them with sticks. Here are some tips for switching between the two:
Know When to Use What: Some songs need the powerful sound of sticks, while others work better with the soft touch of brushes. Pay attention to what fits each song.
Practice Switching: Use a metronome to practice moving between brushes and sticks. This will help you switch easily while playing.
Use in Songs: Pick a song you enjoy that uses both brushes and sticks. Practice going back and forth as you play along.
Learning to use brushes can really improve your drumming skills. Take your time, keep practicing, and don't be shy about trying different music styles. With patience, you’ll see that using brushes will become a big part of your drumming journey. Happy drumming!