Snare Technique

Question 1

How do we achieve dynamics on snare?

Answer 1

1. Closer to rim = piano
2. Closer to the center = forte
3. Higher stick height = forte
4. Lower stick height = piano

Question 2

Why was the traditional grip originally used?

Answer 2

It better fit the angle of the sling drum

Question 3

What are likely causes of an uneven drum roll?

Answer 3

1. both sticks not hitting the same distance from the center of the drum/not striking the same spot
2. One stick is being raised higher than the other
3. the fulcrum of each stick is at a different place
4. One hand is stronger than the other
5. the dominant hand is overshadowing the other hand
6. more tension in one hand than the other
7. the pressure on the sticks is different in each hand

Question 4

What is the logical sequence for teaching a five stroke roll?

Answer 4

1. Controlled single stroke
2. buzz stroke
3. controlled 2 bounces per stroke
4. LlRrL or RrLlR

Question 5

How do you set up a snare drum?

Answer 5

1. set the concert snare level
2. set the snare strainer directly in front of you
3. forearms should be slightly lower than parallel

Question 6

Describe matched grip and why do we teach it?

Answer 6

1. the balance point should be a third of the way from the butt to the tip
2. the fulcrum is made at the balance point by the thumb and forefinger
3. matched grip is usually taught first due to the ease of learning
4. matched grip is taught because it better matches the concert snare set-up

Question 7

What is the difference between a “buzz” roll and a measured roll?

Answer 7

The buzz uses multiple bounces per stroke while the measured roll uses only two bounces per stroke

Question 8

When playing an unmetered roll at a soft dynamic level, will your roll speed be slower or faster?

Answer 8

slower

Question 9

What are the advantages to the matched grip for drummers?

Answer 9

1. Better control for the beginner
2. the grip better fits with the stands used for today’s drums
3. greater amount of transfer with this grip for other percussion instruments

Question 10

Describe the full stroke

Answer 10

1. the stroke is straight up and down
2. fingers and wrist should be relaxed
3. the stroke should be consistent no matter which hand is playing
4. The height of the stroke may be adjusted