Lesson One

The Mighty Two and
Preparation for the Rock n Roll "Backbeat"

From The "Discover Drumming" Video Series

It is very important to begin with a proper grip on the sticks and with the correct "down-up" stroke on the drums. This can be best learned by watching an expert, but assuming this is being done correctly then the "Mighty Two" should be practiced every day.

1. The Single Stroke Roll
   By far the most natural of the two exercises because of the alternating of the right and left hands.

    R L R L   R L R L    

   see movie

   This should be played slowly at first and relaxed, gradually increasing the speed, then slowing again. Sustain for 2-5 minutes!
   
   
2. The Double Stroke Roll
   The key to becoming a good drummer!

    R R L L   R R L L    

   see movie

   Slowly and carefully make each stroke, speed up always keeping control, the slow again. Sustain 2-5 minutes!
   
   

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Preparation for the Rock n Roll "Backbeat"

• This is the most common 2 handed co-ordination pattern in modern music.
  Count out loud 1 and 2 and 3 and 4 and playing each count with the right hand

  1  +  2  +  3  +  4  +
  R  R  R  R  R  R  R  R
  

• then begin to add the left hand on the counts "2" and "4"

  1  +  2  +  3  +  4  +
  
        L           L
  

• Together:

  1  +  2  +  3  +  4  +
  R  R  R  R  R  R  R  R
        L           L
  

  Memorize this pattern and you're good to go!!!    see movie
  

Tip
• When you have the backbeat memorized, try to play it along with one of your favorite CDs or tapes.
  
• Pick a slow song at first (ballad), then try something faster. This is really fun and a great way to learn.
  
• Try to stay right with the tempo (speed) of the song from beginning to end.
  
  
  To see and hear these examples, order Discover Drumming.
  
  Back to the Lessons page
  
  On to the Second Lesson
  
  On to More Rudiments!
  
    To see clips, download Quicktime free.