Drum basics: Matched grip

When you use the matched grip both hands are a mirror image of each other
When you use the matched grip both hands are a mirror image of each other

If you're new to drumming then all the different techniques involved can be daunting. With both hands and feet in action most of the time you're playing it can be difficult to know what aspects of technique to look at first.

One thing's for sure, you need to take the time to make sure your technique is correct from the very start: this will provide you with a solid foundation to build on as you move into more advanced techniques. There's no point rushing ahead to the seemingly cool stuff without having established good fundamentals - you'll just end up playing everything poorly.

This video lesson shows you how to how to hold your drum sticks using the 'matched grip', and make basic strokes.

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