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Eric

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Double Bass

« on: July 09, 2006, 10:29 AM »

I'm sure this has come up before, but I didn't see anything too recent on it so I hope it's okay that I made a new topic.

As some of you may know, I expressed interest in getting a double pedal when I was buying the rest of my gear (hardware, mainly). As a graduation present, my dad paid for most of my other gear that I needed, so I got a Pearl double pedal to go along with it.

I've had trouble going faster with the double pedal. There's nothing wrong with the pedal itself, I always just figured I was too slow. Well, after practicing with leg weights for about an hour yesterday, I found a different way to hit the pedal. Instead of resting my toe on the pedal, I found myself resting most of my foot on the pedal and using my leg to slam my heels into the pedal. I started getting very fast, very consistent single strokes using this method. However, it's very tiring, so I was wondering if I was doing something the "wrong" way or if that's just the way it is.


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felix

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first class all the way :-)

Re: Double Bass

« Reply #1 on: July 09, 2006, 07:25 PM »

Playing Double bass does not happen overnight and some people are just naturally faster than others.

I suggest all newbie DB players get a drum machine, some double bass books and double bass videos. A teacher will help you figure out the patterns if you don't read so well.

Weights and the Isotonik systems are something that I have not perscribed to yet (I've been playing dbl bass drum techniques for 25 years) but I have thought about it for my left foot.

One really needs concentrated double bass practice at least 1/2 hour per day. You may also play right foot patterns with the left foot during normal playing. You need to learn grouping theory, heel toe, heel up and flat/floating foot-beater off head type techniques. Remember there is also 4 way independence and ostinato styles you may pursue. Then of course, the blast beats- but please, learn your subdivision and practice with a click. You will be able to gauge your speed and keep a log of your progress.

Newbie DB players should always keep one thing in mind. Speed should come second and as a byproduct of SOLID and CLEANLY EXECUTED Dbl Bass patterns.

Good luck.


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Sonor, The Drummers Drum

Riddim

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Re: Double Bass

« Reply #2 on: July 09, 2006, 11:21 PM »

I have found these very helpful:

- playing Good Times Bad Times, Space Boogie, or Quadrant 4 with just the weaker foot. Even if it's not up to full tempo, it will develop that limb.

- leading with the weaker foot.

- tightening the springs gradually over time. Bringing the beaters back faster means I can play them faster, once I've developed the strength to do so.


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