Singles versus Doubles
Technique by Kirby Jacobsen // April 23 2013
Here’s a fantastic drum lesson I’ve been using for ages. It’s a wonderful exercise for developing your rolls. I call it a tension and release exercise. Tension, or the harder part, is performing a rapid single stroke roll. Release, or the easier part, is performing the double stroke roll.
When performing “Singles v. Doubles” you want to transition as smoothly as possible between a single stroke and a double stroke roll. Also, strive to keep the volume the same as we tend to play singles louder than doubles.
Play this and all rudiments at soft, medium and loud volumes. Start very slow and play it several times before speeding up.
Keep on locking it in the pocket!
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Kirby jacobsen (drummer, composer, author). Kirby studied Studio Recording and Jazz at the University of Miami and Jazz Performance at William Paterson University. He composes and arranges music for concert band, string and jazz trios and percussion ensemble. His snare solo book, Not Just Another Snare Solo Book, 20 Uncommon Snare Drum Solos, will soon be available on-line through HaMaR Percussion Publications, Inc. Kirby leads the Blue Brush Trio which performs in the NY/NJ metro area.
Send questions or comments to Kirby at symphonic902@yahoo.com.
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