How to Play Double Bass Drums: 9 Steps
1.Get the right equipment: To start playing double bass drums, you need a double bass pedal. You can either buy two separate single pedals and attach them to your bass drums or invest in a double bass drum pedal that has one main pedal and an auxiliary one connecting to the second drum.
2.Set up your drum kit: Arrange your drum kit in a comfortable way so that you can easily reach both bass drums or pedals. Make sure the distance between your drum throne and the pedals allows you to maintain proper posture while playing.
3.Using proper technique: When playing double bass drums, it’s essential to use proper technique to avoid injury and improve your efficiency. Sit up straight on your drum throne with both feet firmly planted on the pedals. Use ankle motion rather than lifting your entire leg while playing.
4.Develop limb independence: Practice using only one foot at a time on each of the pedals before trying both at once. This will help develop independence between your legs, making it easier to play complex patterns later on.
5.Begin with simple patterns: Start with basic, slow patterns like alternating one hit on each bass drum (right, left, right, left). Gradually increase tempo as you become more comfortable with this pattern.
6.Practice rudiments: Practicing rudiments on the double bass drums is essential for developing speed, precision, and control. Rudiments such as doubles (RRLL), paradiddles (RLRR, LRLL), and extended doubles (RRRLLL) can all be applied to double bass drumming.
7.Combine with other percussion instruments: Once you’re comfortable playing simple patterns on the double bass drums alone, try incorporating other parts of your drum kit like cymbals, hi-hat, or snare into your practice routine.
8.Building speed and endurance: Practice regularly for short periods every day to build speed and endurance. It’s better to practice consistently for 20-30 minutes a day than to try and cram all your practice into a marathon session once a week.
9.Experiment with polyrhythms: As you progress in your double bass drumming abilities, you can start exploring more complex rhythms and polyrhythmic patterns. Experimenting with different time signatures and challenging yourself to play creatively will make you a more versatile and dynamic drummer.
Follow these nine steps as you begin learning how to play double bass drums. Remember that practice is crucial – the more time you invest, the faster you’ll improve and master this percussion skill. Happy drumming!