How To Hold Drumsticks

This lesson will cover one method of how to hold drumsticks called the Traditional Grip. You can also learn How To Hold Drumsticks Using the Matched Grip. The important thing is to find which hold feels natural to you. So be sure to check out the other lesson when you’re done here.

In traditional grip your right hand uses the Matched hold (see link above for lesson), while your left uses the Traditional hold. So the steps below refer to your left hand only.

Place the stick in the socket between your thumb and index finger. Be sure that the drumsticks butt hangs outside of your hand out a little. Learn about the butt, grip, shoulder and other Parts of Drumsticks in this drum lesson.

Now place your first two fingers on top and the last two on the bottom. The first finger can either hug your thumb or rest on your middle finger. I’ve seen both of them been used and it’s just your personal preference.

I will say however, I feel that you get better control with your index gripping near your thumb as shown above. You’re now ready to play. This method is the earliest one used and is favored by drumline musicians and old school drummers like Buddy Rich. It does have some advantages, such as the ability to easily roll one hand. If you’ve seen video of Buddy Rich going crazy you’ll see how well he utilizes this technique. Personally, I prefer matched grip, but that’s how I began learning and it’s what I’m most comfortable with.

I have many more lessons covering drumsticks. You may want to learn more about Drum Stick Sizes or How To Choose Drum Sticks. You’ll also learn how different Wood Tips affect the sound and tone. So be sure to check them out if you want to know more.

You Can Also See More of My Beginner Drum Lessons or Check Out My Drum Stick Page For More Stick Lessons of to Purchase Sticks.