Double strokes and exchanges

Together with the single strokes, the double strokes represent the base of the technique of the drum. The problems related to the double stroke (dynamic equilibrium, weakness of the second stroke, coordination of the movements and the sticks) may be overcome by adopting a strategy of study based on in-depth study. In the exercises that I propose, the "rhythmic responsibilites" of the wands are well balanced because in tha four combinations both the metric accent (or of the phrase if the eight quavers are considered in this way) and the rhythmic accents, are performed with different fingerings. This procedure makes immediately evident where the problems are (there are generally many of them because the double strokes insidious especially for the precision and the dynamic control); if, for example, the exchange D has got some problems, it is necessary to study it in depth by giving it more importance.

Study the exercises in to two ways.

1° way: perform each exchange 2 or 4 times at 60 the quarter, and when you finish them, start again and repeat them at double time (in practice the quavers become semiquavers). If in some exchanges you have some uncertainties, play them repeatedly (eight or more times).

 Later you can increase the initial modulation, for example at 80 or 100, checking if the doubling is functional.

2° way: perform the first exchange by starting slowly and it progressively hasten underlining a light accent on the first of the eight quavers: when you obtain a discreet speed, progressively decelerates up to return to the slow phase. Do the same with the other three exchanges.

This strategy of study will give its good result if constantly adopted.

 The technique of double stroke is  fundamental, that is it must be part of acqured knowledge of a percussionist. It will be useful not only to play the drum, but for many other instruments, from the congas to the marimba, from the tympani to the guiro.  B.F.

© 2002 Beniamino Forestiere ITALY