Topic: speed

[Hank Gagnon]

do you think that  being able to play fast has anything to do with your own  manner of movement? in other words, do you naturally walk and talk fast? are you fairly deliberate in your decision making or speech?

[Rusty Beckett]

No I don't think those physical traits are related to hand speed.  I say this because I've personally known or watched two drummers over the years that amazed me with the speed they could generate moving around a drum set.  Years ago I enjoyed watching a drummer in Portland, Oregon play with a Jazz Fusion style group.  He was a LARGE man, over 6'4" and well over 300 lbs.  He could do a single stroke roll around his set that blew me away.  Away from his drums he was very mellow, low key, slow moving and talking.  The other is a drummer I know well in the Portland, Maine area.  He's a lot smaller but also carries a bit of weight.  Away from the set he's also quiet and mellow.  I've watched him do a single stick roll faster than I ever expected possible.

[Chip Donaho]

I've watched him do a single stick roll faster than I ever expected possible.

I've known drummers like that. I would get so angry with myself when watching them.   

[tkitna]

I'm fat, lazy, and slow. Thats about how i play too, so there might be something to this.

[Bob Dias]

In a word, No.  Speed in ANY physical endeavour is about control. Drumming is no different.  Have you aver watched a pro athlete?  Sprinters are at their fastest when totally and completely relaxed. Ever really watch the silky smooth wide reciever or basketball player? they make it look effortless.  It is all about control and relaxation.  The fastest drummer is also likely going to look effortlessly smooth.  IF you want to learn to play fast, in time, at an appropriate dynamic level, with feeling, with the rest of your band, learn to play smoothly, under control.

[Bill Bachman]

I've seen Dennis Chambers walk, so no!