Been getting a lot of questions lately so I think it's time for some Q&A action.
Here we go:
QUESTION: I'm having trouble playing flams. Sometimes they're too open and other times they're completely flat. How can I play flams more consistently?
PAT MCLAUGHLIN: Good question. Flams can be tough to play and consistency is key so you're definitely on the right track in terms of what you're trying to achieve.
As with anything that you want to be consistent, you need to:
1) Practice slowly
2) Practice perfection
Do those two things over and over and you'll notice a positive change in your flam quality.
QUESTION: I see people doing lots of stick tricks and I want to do them too. Which ones should I learn first and how should I practice them?
PAT MCLAUGHLIN: Call me crazy, but I'm more of a fundamentals guy.
Now don't get me wrong - I love a good stick trick when it's appropriately placed and enhances the performance of the music.
But more often than not I see people getting hung up on them and they actually
DECREASE their performance quality.
Talk about a big bummer...
Anyway, my advice is to focus on the nuts and bolts of your playing as well as the musicianship of your playing.
If you really need to learn a stick trick for a show or solo - you'll figure it out when you need to.
But don't prioritize stick tricks - prioritize the quality of your playing.
That's my philosophy at least.
OK, one last question before we wrap up.
QUESTION: My left hand is really weak and slow compared to my right hand. How can I fix this?
PAT MCLAUGHLIN: Ah, yes. The infamous weak left hand…
Well, there's a great course called Total Control on the website.
It walks you through a step-by-step practice plan with specific exercises and tempo charts that will build up the strength, speed, and control of your left hand.
People who go through it get huge results and stop complaining about their left hand so it must work like a charm!
To get your hands on the Total Control course, sign up as an Insider:
http://drumlinechops.com/signup
To Your Drumming Success,
Pat McLaughlin
Founder of Drumline Chops
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