The Flexibility of Drumming: Playing Rolls with the Non-Dominant Hand

Drumming, a complex and dynamic art, has some intriguing nuances that often confuse and fascinate beginners and seasoned musicians alike. One such aspect is the ability of drummers, especially right-handed individuals, to initiate rolls using their non-dominant hand. Many drummers tend to start their rolls on the snare with their right hand, but have you ever heard a roll begin with a crash cymbal or a ride cymbal? If not, this article explores the reasons and advantages behind this technique.

Understanding the Dominance

It's important to note that leading with the right hand is a natural disposition for right-handed drummers. However, this does not set a hard and fast rule. Drummers like Carter Beaufort and Ringo Starr, two renowned left-handed drummers, have shattered these perceptions. Let's delve into how and why this can be achieved.

Leading with the Left Hand: Carter Beaufort’s Story

Carter Beaufort: A prime example of this flexibility is the renowned drummer of The Dave Matthews Band. Carter Beaufort was taught to play on a right-handed kit, but his kit was originally set up mirror-image, as if it were left-handed. Interestingly, he continued to play this way, using his left hand as his dominant hand, until he realized he needed to switch to a right-handed kit to progress further. This unique playing style allowed him to develop a highly individual and captivating sound, showcasing a mix of left-handed and right-handed techniques. His ability to adapt and thrive led to his remarkable reputation in the drumming world.

Switching Hands: Ringo Starr’s Unusual Experience

Ringo Starr: On the opposite side of the spectrum, Ringo Starr, a left-handed individual, was forced to play right-handed due to personal beliefs about left-handedness. Raised by his aunt who thought it was the "devil’s tool," Ringo was compelled to use his right hand. This unusual twisting of his natural hand preference has nonetheless contributed to his distinctive sound and style, making him one of the most unique and notable drummers of his generation.

Advantages of Using the Non-Dominant Hand

Using the non-dominant hand for drumming rolls can offer several advantages, including:

Increased Flexibility: The ability to switch hands during performances can open up new rhythmic possibilities, such as interesting hat/snare/bass patterns during a song. Stylistic Flexibility: This technique can accommodate sudden time-signature changes and other stylistic alterations, making the performance more natural and fluid. Improved Independence: Some drummers, like Mark Craney and Marco Middelmann, intentionally develop four-way independence, allowing them to use both hands more effectively.

How to Adapt to Playing with the Non-Dominant Hand

Adapting to this technique is more about embracing your natural instincts than following rigid rules. Here are some tips:

Recognize Your Primacy: Be aware of which hand is more dominant for tasks such as writing, throwing, or sports. Practice Mirror Image: Set up your drum kit in a mirror image, as Ringo and Carter did. This will help you learn to play with your non-dominant hand. Embrace Natural Feelings: As a child, notice which hand you tend to use when picking things up spontaneously. This can be a clue to your natural dominance. Cross-Handed Practice: Integrate exercises that challenge your non-dominant hand to become more dexterous.

Conclusion

Drumming is an art that thrives on creativity and individual expression. While leading with the dominant hand is a common practice, there is no rule that binds you to this tradition. By exploring the techniques of left-handed drummers like Carter Beaufort and Ringo Starr, you can discover new ways to enhance your performance and develop a unique style. The key is to embrace your natural instincts and let your creativity guide you, rather than conforming to traditional norms.

So, the next time you're setting up your kit or choosing how to start a roll, remember, there's no rule like being yourself. Enjoy the journey of discovering and refining your own drumming technique!