EXERCISE #8: “PARADIDDLES”
This exercise works on accented Paradiddle-diddles and Paradiddles.
• Employ the same techniques as “Accent Tap.” On the lead hand in Paradiddle-diddles, start with full height accent stroke, freeze the stick close to the drum and play a relaxed double stroke. Listen for the quality and consistency of sound of the soft notes between the accents, making sure that you’re producing a quality sound out of the drum on every stroke.
• Do not overplay the accented notes or add unnecessary tension in the hand or fulcrum, especially on Paradiddle-diddles. Simply play a full height stroke as you would in consecutive rebound strokes.
• On Single Paradiddles, make sure that the accents match in height and volume from hand to hand.
• Practice at a slow tempo along with the play-along video or tracks. Each of the soft strokes (including the doubles) will be made with the wrist. As you speed up, the doubles become more relaxed – but always strive for consistency of sound in every stroke.
• Right handed players may need to work on Paradiddle-diddles that lead with the left. These are much less common in music, but just as important to work on as the right hand lead.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE MARCHING PERCUSSION 101 EXERCISE PACKET
Including Full Battery Percussion Score and Part Booklet
PLAY-ALONG VIDEO 1
Battery Only (No Tracks)
PLAY-ALONG AUDIO: BATTERY ONLY
PLAY-ALONG VIDEO 2
WITH PLAY-ALONG TRACKS
PLAY-ALONG AUDIO: WITH TRACKS
PERFORMANCE WITHOUT LIMITATION…BY DESIGN
For nearly 60 years, we at the Vic Firth Company have focused on developing and manufacturing what has become the world’s most popular drumsticks, mallets, alternative implements, and accessories… with the best durability, feel, and sound options, across the widest variety of genres and styles.
