Hi, guys! My name is Andrea Gatti. I'm the drum and percussion instructor at Drum Arts. I’ve had the privilege of playing and teaching for over two decades. My heart is deeply invested in seeing my students and fellow drummers grow in their passion. In this article, I advise you on how to know the appropriate sticks to start drumming, and why making the right choice can make a difference.
Why is choosing the right stick so important?
Let me start by saying that a good stick is only important when handled with proper technique. The stick cannot perform by itself. Learning proper technique for holding and handling the sticks is key. That said, what characteritizes a good pair of drumsticks? are the reasons for having a good pair of drumsticks?
A good stick is well-balanced, allowing the desired response when bouncing off the played surface. A good stick allows the student to become familiar with the rebound and helps with learning the proper hand motion.
It's made of quality wood, therefore it will respond properly and also last longer.
Drumsticks are paired by the producer according to weight. This gives the player better control.
A good brand of sticks will also have a wide selection and models according to:
- Size.
- Material. Usually hickory for a heavier stick, and maple for a lighter one. Sometimes it's possible to find sticks made of oak wood which is also a heavier wood. Also, it's possible to find carbon fiber or aluminum sticks. The aluminum ones are only for use on the pad since they would destroy the drums and cymbals. They are for learning new techniques since they have a lot of mass and produce a lot of momentum. (For a beginner, I recommend a wooden model.)
- Tip shape. Each tip will give a different sound on the cymbals.
- Length of the taper. The longer the taper the lighter the stick will be at the point and the more it will bounce.
Where to start - Which drum stick is the best choice?
There are hundreds, if not more, of stick models available. How do you choose the right one for a beginner or a child? Finding the right stick can be a long journey. Usually the drummer's stick preference evolves as their technique evolves. Musical taste can change and our taste in music matures, and so on... It's a continual evolution.
If you are just starting to play or are a parent, I recommend having two types of sticks:
One model for technique studies on the drum pad. This stick will need to be heavier. Having more mass helps the student to understand the mechanics of the movement. I usually recommend a 5B with a good rebound. (Note: This does not suit children since their hands are too small.)
One or more models for the drumset. I have different models that I use in different situations according to the music style and volume I want to have while playing. If you're not sure which model to choose I recommend starting with a 5A which is a standard size. I like a slightly chubbier stick. The model I use most frequently is between a 5A and a 5B.
Usually, any pair of drum sticks that comes with a beginner kit is not good for studying seriously. Those models are very cheap and are only ok for small children to play and bang on the drums.
Final thoughts - How Do You Choose The Right Drum Stick
In the beginning, it can be overwhelming having so many drum stick options. There are many brands and many models. Beginners lack understanding and haven't developed a taste to select the right model. It takes a lot of experimenting and trying different models to develop and understand one's proper taste or preference. I recommend starting with standard models, and later on when the student has developed better technique, try to experiment with different sticks.
If you have any questions, or if there is a topic you would like to hear about, please let me know in the comments section. I will be very happy to help out as best I can.
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Check out this video/article tutorial to improve your rebound of the stick!
Thank you for your attention. We look forward to hearing from you!
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