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Basic Playing Techniques for Concert Bass Drum
Jul 1, 2024
Basic Playing Techniques for Concert Bass Drum
Positioning
Drum Position
Face the conductor
Drum should be straight up and down or at a slight angle
Avoid horizontal positioning to ensure proper sound projection
Music Stand Position
Place it in front of the drum
Just below eye level with the conductor
Ensure visibility of both the music and the conductor without extensive head movement
Choosing the Right Mallet
Mallet Choice
Use a concert bass drum mallet
Avoid using:
Marching bass drum mallet
Timpani mallet
Recommended mallet:
BD1
Soft felt
Good-sized head
Balanced weight for activating the whole drum
Playing Area and Technique
Playing Area
Play just off the center of the drum for a big, deep, full sound
Stroke
Slow strokes
Keep the hand relaxed
Use the arm and big muscles
Aim for a deep, dark sound
Muffling Techniques
Muffling Stands
Some stands come with a footrest for knee muffling
Alternatives:
Use a chair
Base of a snare drum stand
General Muffling
Let the drum resonate with no initial muffling
Muffle after playing
Use the left hand for the resonant head
Use the knee for the batter side head
Continuous Muffling
Useful for faster passages or marches
Rest knee gently on the batter side head while playing
Avoid pressing too hard to prevent a dead, boxy sound
Creating Different Sounds
Variations with BD1
Changing the beating spot alters the sound
Center:
Big impact
Alternative Mallet: BD3
Smaller head
More tightly wrapped felt for better articulation
Rolling Technique
Use two mallets of the same size:
BD7
recommended
Play closer to the edge for a resonant sound without much attack
Use a hand-to-hand single stroke roll
Ensure an even, sustained sound
Increase hand speed as dynamic level goes up
Dry Sound Option
Use a towel and a clip to keep it in place for longer articulated passages
Key Points to Remember
Aim for a low and sustained sound in concert bass drum playing
The bass drum is the lowest sound in the band or orchestra
Avoid the sound profiles of drum set bass drums and marching bass drums
Continuously monitor and adjust to ensure the sound fits the musical context
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