Double Bass Drum, an innovation that revolutionized drumming, originated in the late 1930s. Created by American jazz drummer Louie Bellson during his high school years, this technique involves using both feet to control two separate bass drums. Initially gaining popularity in the jazz realm, it later made its way into rock and heavy metal music.
Drummers like Keith Moon of The Who, Ginger Baker of Cream, Mitch Mitchell of Jimi Hendrix’s band, and Nick Mason of Pink Floyd were pioneers in incorporating double bass drumming into rock music in the 1960s. Since then, it has become a staple in heavy metal performances, with drummers like Cozy Powell, Tommy Aldridge, and Carmine Appice showcasing its potential.
Understanding the Instrument
Before diving into techniques, it’s crucial to understand the components of a double bass drum setup. Typically, a double bass pedal is attached to a single bass drum, allowing both feet to strike the same drumhead independently. Alternatively, some drummers use two separate bass drums, each controlled by a foot.
Parts of a Double Bass Pedal:
Base Plate: Supports the entire pedal assembly.
Beater: The part that strikes the drumhead.
Cam and Linkage: Connects the beater to the footboard, converting foot movement into beater movement.
Footboard: The part of the pedal you press with your foot.
Strap: Keeps the pedal securely attached to the drum.
Basic Techniques for Beginners
1. Posture and Setup
Correct posture is essential for effective double bass drumming. Sit up straight, lean slightly into the drums, and keep your feet comfortably positioned on the pedals. Adjust the pedal height and angle to suit your playing style and comfort level.
2. Heel-Up vs. Heel-Down Technique
There are two primary techniques for double bass drumming: heel-up and heel-down.
Heel-Up Technique: In this method, your heels remain off the ground, and you use your ankle and calf muscles to strike the pedals. It’s easier to gain speed and control with this technique.
Heel-Down Technique: Here, your heels remain on the ground, and you use your entire leg to strike the pedals. While it may feel more powerful, it’s harder to coordinate and gain speed.
Most drummers recommend starting with the heel-up technique due to its ease of use and speed potential.
3. Finding the Sweet Spot
To maximize your speed and control, find the “sweet spot” on your pedals. This is the point where your foot strikes the pedal with the most efficiency. Place the ball of your foot slightly forward on the pedal, with your toes curled under. Experiment with different foot positions to find what works best for you.
4. Basic Exercises
Start with straightforward exercises to build your double bass drumming foundation.
Straight Sixteenth Notes: Practice playing even sixteenth notes with both feet. Focus on maintaining a consistent tempo and volume.
Triplets: Once you’re comfortable with sixteenth notes, move on to triplets. This will help you develop a sense of rhythm and timing.
Double Stroke Rolls: Also known as “paradiddles,” double stroke rolls involve alternating between the left and right foot. Start slow and gradually increase your speed.
5. Coordination and Groove
Double bass drumming is not just about speed; it’s also about coordination and groove. Practice exercises that combine double bass drumming with other drum parts, like hi-hat and snare. This will help you develop a sense of rhythm and timing that feels natural and musical.
Common Issues and Tips for Improvement
1. Timing and Control
Many beginners struggle with timing and control when first learning double bass drumming. Here are some tips to help improve:
Metronome Practice: Use a metronome to practice your exercises. This will help you develop a sense of timing and rhythm.
Slow Practice: Start slow and gradually increase your speed. This will help you build a solid foundation and avoid developing bad habits.
Focus on One Foot: If you’re struggling with coordination, try focusing on one foot at a time. Once you’re comfortable with each foot, combine them together.
2. Speed and Endurance
Building speed and endurance takes time and patience. Here are some tips to help you progress:
Gradual Increase in Speed: Start slow and gradually increase your speed over time. Avoid rushing through exercises, as this can lead to poor technique and injuries.
Warm-Up Exercises: Incorporate warm-up exercises into your practice routine. This will help prevent injuries and improve your overall playing.
Practice Regularly: Consistency is key. Practice double bass drumming regularly, even if it’s just for a short period each day.
3. Avoiding Common Mistakes
Here are some common mistakes beginners make and how to avoid them:
Overusing Double Bass: Don’t overuse double bass drumming in your playing. Use it sparingly to add dynamics and interest to your playing.
Ignoring Technique: Don’t sacrifice technique for speed. Good technique will help you play faster and with more control in the long run.
Not Practicing Hands and Feet Together: Make sure to practice your hands and feet together. This will help you develop a sense of coordination and timing that feels natural and musical.
Advanced Techniques and Styles
As you become more proficient with double bass drumming, you can explore more advanced techniques and styles.
1. Double Bass Grooves
Double bass grooves are essential for playing styles like funk and heavy metal. Experiment with different patterns and rhythms to create unique grooves that fit the music you’re playing.
2. Double Bass Fills
Fills are short, rhythmic passages that add interest and dynamics to your playing. Incorporate double bass fills into your playing to add excitement and variety to your performances.
3. Double Bass Solos
While double bass drumming is often used as a rhythmic accompaniment, it can also be featured in solos. Experiment with different techniques and patterns to create unique and musically interesting solos.
Practice Tips and Strategies
1. Set Clear Goals
Set clear, achievable goals for your double bass drumming practice. This will help you stay focused and motivated.
2. Record Yourself
Recording yourself can be a valuable tool for self-assessment. Listen back to your recordings and identify areas for improvement.
3. Seek Feedback
Playing for others and seeking feedback can be incredibly helpful. Ask friends, bandmates, or teachers for their thoughts on your double bass drumming.
4. Practice with a Metronome
Using a metronome can help you develop a sense of timing and rhythm. Practice your exercises with a metronome to improve your accuracy and control.
5. Incorporate Double Bass into Your Playing
Don’t just practice double bass drumming in isolation. Incorporate it into your overall playing to develop a sense of coordination and timing that feels natural and musical.
Conclusion
Double Bass Drum is a powerful and versatile technique that can add excitement and dynamics to your drumming. As a beginner, focus on developing a solid foundation through correct posture, technique, and practice. Avoid common mistakes, and seek feedback and guidance from others to improve your playing. With patience and persistence, you’ll develop the skills and confidence to incorporate double bass drumming into your performances.
