Choosing the
"best" drumstick is a very personal decision. Many drummers have
not yet discovered how much better they could play using the correct
stick. It's not unusual for professionals to use 2 or 3 different models
or more.
Factors to consider when
choosing a drumstick include density, straightness of grain, type of wood,
weight, length, diameter, wood or nylon tip, plus the intangibles of
balance and "feel". When selecting a stick, look for a good
quality hardwood with the grain running uniformly from butt to bead. The
kind of wood selected will have a great deal to do with the feel, the
balance, the sound and the longevity of the stick. Some drummers prefer
the natural sound of wood tips. Others prefer nylon tips for a bright,
cymbal sound and longer tip life. Be sure to select a high quality nylon
tip for the best sound and service .
Determine the size drumstick that best fits your hand, both in diameter
and length. Remember, you're looking for comfort and a stick you can
control that also gives you the sound you want. Try several different
sizes for comparison before you decide to buy. After you become more
experienced, you will probably find a specific brand and a particular
model which best suits you for most playing situations. Your teacher or
local music store can help guide you.
The wood tips are deeply back-cut for intensified cymbal response. The nylon tips are similar in size and shape to their wood counterparts, providing enhanced performance and a feel closer to their original wood tip models. Nylon tips are the most durable and brightest sounding on cymbals.
What are your volume requirements? A jazz trio or 18-piece band? A rock
group or a marching band? Perhaps a symphony orchestra? The proper stick
for each situation will differ. Feel the sticks. Hold them in your hands.
Tap each on a solid surface like glass or wood to hear the pitch and
"feel" the wood. Avoid sticks that feel or sound hollow.
Evenness of weight is usually preferred ... both sticks the same. Sticks
that sound the same when tapped generally weigh the same. Test the sticks
for straightness. Roll them on a flat, smooth surface. Too many drummers
buy sticks by only rolling them ... without ever picking them up and
feeling them. Wrong! Feel and roll (or roll and feel), but never buy on
rolling alone. A good solid feeling drumstick, even though not perfectly
straight, is much better than a straight stick that feels hollow or weak.
Excessively warped sticks should be avoided. Natural wood varies in color.
Once you learn what feels right for you, the color of the wood won't
matter. From time to time you may try new models and different brands.
There are now so many choices you should find it easy to obtain the proper
sticks to meet your needs. Important! Select a quality brand and a model
you can be reasonably certain will be available in the future from your
local store or when you're on the road.
Resources:
Vic Firth, Promark
Drumsticks < Main Page
Copyright © 2001 Music Central Inc.
