Exploring Open-Handed Drummers: Techniques and Skills
Drumming is not just about the power and rhythm; it's also about the technique and the personal touch each drummer brings to the instrument. One unique aspect of drumming is the open-handed playing method, where drummers use both hands in a non-traditional manner. This article focuses on notable open-handed drummers and the techniques they use.
Notable Open-Handed Drummers
Among the many talented drummers who play using the open-handed method, a few come to mind. Notable drummers who use this technique include:
Billy Cobham Carter Beauford – A prominent drummer from the Dave Matthews Band Simon Phillips Don Famularo Lenny White Claus Hessler Justin Harlan (Bullet for My Valentine) Steve GaddThese drummers have unique approaches to using their non-dominant hand to produce a distinctive sound and style.
Personal Experience: The Impact of Open-Handed Drumming
As an open-handed drummer, the experience can be both rewarding and challenging. I started playing drums at a young age, around 12, and initially had the option to play either left-handed, right-handed, or with both hands open. I chose the open-handed method, which turned out to be a significant decision given that it affects the positioning of my hands during playing techniques, particularly rolls down the toms.
Playing open-handed has its pros and cons. While it offers a more unique sound and style, it can also make certain techniques more challenging. For instance, when I play a roll down the toms, my non-dominant hand is in front of my dominant one, which can feel counterintuitive. Over time, I have learned to adapt and improve both my open-handed and right-handed techniques. I can play right-handed as well but am not as proficient as my open-handed playing.
Part of the challenge lies in the fact that I play in a band, and switching from an open-handed style to a more traditional right-handed setup would require a learning curve for my bandmates. Thus, I have decided to stick with the open-handed method, even though it means occasionally dragging my non-dominant hand in front of my playing position.
To make this easier, I practice regularly and try to improve both my technique and my ability to switch between playing styles. Additionally, sharing a drum set with my daughter, who is right-handed, has provided me with the opportunity to adapt to playing with my non-dominant hand more often. This has helped me become a better right-handed drummer as well, though I remain predominantly an open-handed drummer.
Exploring Open-Handed Drumming Techniques
Techniques for open-handed drumming can vary. Some drummers, like Steve Gadd, switch between open-handed and right-handed styles depending on the song or the moment in the performance. Open-handed playing often brings a certain flair and uniqueness to the drumming, especially with powerful and dynamic segments of a song.
Another notable drummer who often uses open-handed techniques is Justin Harlan, the drummer for Bullet for My Valentine. His playing style is characterized by a unique blend of technique and creativity, and open-handed playing is a significant part of that.
Overall, open-handed drumming offers a unique opportunity to express creativity and individuality in drumming, as seen in the performances and styles of Billy Cobham, Carter Beauford, Simon Phillips, and other notable drummers.
Conclusion
The world of drumming is vast and offers a multitude of techniques and styles for musicians to explore. Open-handed drumming is just one of the many unique approaches that can add a distinctive flavor to a drummer's performance. Whether you're inspired by the work of Billy Cobham or Justin Harlan, open-handed drumming continues to captivate and inspire drummers around the world.