Hand Positions

Ready Position

Be sure the drum is secure and angled slightly away from the body. Keep your elbows away from the body and remain relaxed. If at any time you experience pain in the hands, wrists, or arms...

STOP PLAYING IMMEDIATELY!

The Bass Tone

Using the palm of your hand, strike the drum in the center, allowing your hand to rebound immediately after making contact.  A muted bass tone can be achieved by allowing the hand to remain on the drum after striking.

The Open Tone

Keeping your fingers closed, strike the edge of the drum, allowing your hand to rebound immediately after making contact. A muted tone can be achieved by allowing the hand to remain on the drum after striking, or by muffling the head with the opposite hand.

The Slap Tone

Allowing your fingers to open slightly, strike the edge of the drum with your fingertips using the weight of your fingers.  A muted tone can be achieved by allowing the hand to remain on the drum after striking, or by muffling the head with the opposite hand.