Playing the Double Bass Pedal

Every drummer at some point of his career wants to learn how to play the double bass drum, which is a very good thing to do. Knowing how to play the double bass drum adds so much to any style of music. But before you go double pedal crazy, you should definitely take the time to learn some basic double pedal technique. There is a lot to learn with this new style of drumming. Playing the double bass drum can be a great addition to a song; however, it can also be a huge hindrance. So make sure you know when and where to play the double bass drum.

When you learn the double bass drum, you will start out by learning how to play basic rudiments on it. Like the single stroke roll for example, this is the most common rudiment to play on the double bass. This can be used for beats, fills, and solos. This is one of those techniques that are song specific. Meaning some songs call for it, and others don’t. Most beginner drummers will learn how to play a basic double bass drum beat, and get so excited that they play it in every song they can. This is a bad thing to do, since this beat is mainly used for heavier songs since the bass drum is such a driving voice.

So does this mean if you do not play heavy songs you shouldn’t learn the double bass drum? Not at all! The double bass pedal can add spice and variety to any song type. The biggest aspect of the double bass drum is the addition it brings to fills and breaks. When you get good enough with bass drum control, you will be able incorporate it into common fills and make them sound very complex. Playing a simple 16th note fill around the drum set will sound totally different when you add in the double bass drum. All of this can be done without making the song sound to loud or heavy.

Another great technique you can do with the double bass drum is a method known as the Swiss triplet. This is a technique on the double bass drum where you play 3 notes together very fast, creating a fast triplet feel. This is done by using the Heel Toe technique, or the Slide technique, followed by a single hit on the other drum. These techniques are further discussed in other lessons. This triplet can be added to most beats or fills to add a very nice feeling to it. For example, in a basic punk rock beat, try playing the Swiss triplet instead of a double kick, you will see what I mean. Adding this in fills will also help your style out.

So whether you are heavy metal rock drummer or not, the double bass drum is definitely something you should learn. Practicing this new style is a little strenuous, but the additions you will be able to play are priceless. Play the double bass in Jazz, Latin, Rock, Metal, Punk, and all other styles of music! Click here for more details on learning this powerful new technique!