Metal or a Glass Slide?

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Metal vs. Glass Slides: A Blues Showdown

The slide guitar is a cornerstone of the blues sound, conjuring up images of dusty Delta juke joints and smoky Chicago clubs. But should a blues guitarist use a metal or a glass slide? Each material has its own unique sonic and playing characteristics, and the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Metal Slides: Bright and Bold

Metal slides, typically made of steel or brass, are known for their bright, articulate tone. They produce a clear, bell-like sound with plenty of sustain, making them ideal for cutting through a mix and adding bite to your solos. Metal slides are also relatively durable and less prone to breakage than glass slides.

Metal or a Glass Slide

The Dunlop 224 Brass Slide

Some popular metal slide options include:

  • Dunlop 222: A classic medium walled brass slide with a bright, piercing tone.
  • Dunlop 224: A heavy walled brass slide with a warmer, smoother sound than steel.
  • Fender Steel Slide: A heavy-duty steel slide with excellent sustain.

Glass Slides: Warm and Sweet

Glass slides offer a warmer, more mellow tone than metal slides. They tend to emphasize the fundamental frequencies of the notes, resulting in a rounder, woodier sound that’s perfect for slow blues and bottleneck playing. However, glass slides are also more fragile than metal slides and can break if dropped.

Metal or a Glass Slide

The Derek Trucks Glass Slide

Some popular glass slide options include:

The Verdict: It’s All About You

There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing between metal and glass slides. The best slide for you is the one that you like the sound and feel of the most. Experiment with different materials, thicknesses, and weights to find the perfect slide for your blues playing.

Here are some additional factors to consider:

  • Playing style: Do you prefer a bright, aggressive sound or a warm, mellow sound?
  • Guitar type: Metal slides tend to sound better on electric guitars, while glass slides can work well on both acoustic and electric guitars.

I hope this gives you a good starting point, please let me know if you have any other questions.

The Right Size Guitar

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A Perfect Fit

Finding the right size guitar is crucial for both comfort and playability. A guitar that’s too big or too small can hinder your progress and enjoyment of the instrument. Here are some ways to tell if a guitar is the correct size for you:

Physical fit:

  • Reach the first fret: With your left hand, sit with the guitar in playing position. Your fingertips should comfortably reach the first fret without stretching or straining. If you can’t reach it, the guitar is likely too big.

  • Fretting hand comfort: Your fingers should be able to comfortably fret notes across the entire neck without feeling cramped or stretched out. If your fingers feel crowded or you have trouble reaching the higher frets, the guitar might be too small.

  • Strumming hand comfort: Your right hand should be able to move freely around the body and bridge of the guitar to strum and pick comfortably. If the body feels bulky or awkward to hold, the guitar might be too large.

Playing experience:

  • Sound and tone: A properly sized guitar will feel balanced and resonant, with a clear and full tone. If the sound feels thin or weak, the guitar might be too small. Conversely, if the sound is boomy or muddy, the guitar might be too big.
  • Intonation: The notes should play in tune across the entire neck. If the notes are sharp or flat on certain frets, the guitar might have an incorrect scale length or other setup issues.
  • Overall comfort: Ultimately, the most important factor is how comfortable you feel playing the guitar. If you feel tense, strained, or awkward, the guitar is likely not the right size for you.
Finding the Right Size Guitar

Left is a full size guitar-Right is a 3/4 size guitar

Other Factors to Find the Right Size Guitar

  • Your age and size: Children and smaller adults often benefit from smaller guitars, such as 3/4 or 1/2 sizes.
  • Guitar type: Different types of guitars have different body shapes and sizes. For example, electric guitars are generally smaller than acoustic guitars.
  • Playing style: Some playing styles, such as fingerpicking, might require a different size or body shape than strumming.

  • Here’s a helpful chart that summarizes the typical guitar sizes for different ages and body types:

    Age Height Body Type Recommended Guitar Size
    4-7 years old 36″-42″ Small 1/4 size
    7-10 years old 42″-48″ Average 3/4 size
    10-12 years old 48″-54″ Average 3/4 size or small full-size
    12+ years old 54″+ Average or tall Full-size

Tips:

  • Try out different guitars in a music store to find one that feels comfortable and sounds good to you.
  • Ask a guitar teacher or experienced player for help choosing the right size guitar.
  • Don’t be afraid to buy a used guitar, as there are many great deals to be found. Just make sure the guitar is in good condition and the right size for you.

I hope this helps! Remember, the most important thing is to find a guitar that you enjoy playing. With the right fit, you’ll be on your way to making beautiful music in no time.

The Paradiddle

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Beginner’s Guide to Paradiddles: Your Drumming Toolbox Essential

The paradiddle is a fundamental drumming rudiment, like a building block for countless grooves and fills. Mastering it unlocks a universe of rhythmic possibilities, making you a more versatile and expressive drummer. So, grab your sticks and let’s get started!

What is a paradiddle?

Imagine a simple alternating pattern of single strokes (one hit per hand) and double strokes (two hits per hand). That’s the paradiddle!

  • Single Paradiddle: RLRR LLRL (Right Left Right Right Left Left Right Left)

Why are paradiddles important?

  • Develop hand independence: Playing each hand differently trains your limbs to move separately and evenly.
  • Improve coordination: Coordinating single and double strokes strengthens your overall drumming control.
  • Build speed and dexterity: With consistent practice, paradiddles can significantly boost your playing speed and agility.
  • Unlock a rhythmic treasure trove: Paradiddles form the foundation for countless grooves, fills, and solos used in various drumming styles.

Getting started with the paradiddle:

  1. Start slow and focus on accuracy: Before chasing speed, prioritize clean execution. Play each note clearly and evenly, with proper sticking (right hand lead for R and left hand lead for L).
  2. Practice on a drum pad: This allows you to focus on technique without the distractions of the full kit.
  3. Use a metronome: Set a slow tempo and gradually increase it as you gain control and confidence.
  4. Begin with a triple stroke roll: Start with a triple stroke roll alternating hands.
  5. Throw in a pause: Pause after first hit on the triple stroke roll followed by 2 quick hits.
  6. Add the other stick: Hit the pad with the other stick during the pause.
  7. Accent on first hit: Use a heavier hit on the first strike and make sure to rebound completely after completing each paradiddle to start the next.
  8. Move around the kit: Once comfortable, try playing paradiddles on different drums and cymbals to develop spatial awareness.

Bonus tips from your friendly drum teacher:

  • Record yourself: Watching or listening back to your playing can highlight areas for improvement.
  • Find a drumming buddy: Practicing with a friend can add motivation and make learning more fun.
  • Don’t get discouraged: Mastering paradiddles takes time and dedication. Be patient, consistent, and celebrate your progress!

Remember: The paradiddle is a journey, not a destination. With dedication and practice, it will become an essential tool in your drumming arsenal, opening doors to endless rhythmic possibilities. So, grab your sticks, embrace the challenge, and let the paradiddle magic begin!

Drum Throne

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Finding Your Perfect Groove: A Drum Teacher’s Guide to Drum Thrones

As drum teachers, we understand the importance of a comfortable throne. A shaky stool can wreak havoc on technique and motivation, while a drum throne that feels like a torture device will have them itching to switch instruments. That’s why picking the right throne is just as crucial as choosing the right cymbals or snare. Today, we’ll compare a couple of popular options: Roc N Soc, Gibraltar, and your standard generic stool.

The Throne King?

Roc N Soc thrones are legendary for their comfort and adjustability. The signature manual spindle mechanism lets you fine-tune your height with pinpoint accuracy, no jerky levers or wobbly gas cylinders to contend with. Their seat options are diverse, from classic round tops to contoured saddles and even a split design for ultimate spinal support.

Benefits:

  • Unmatched adjustability: Find the perfect height with millimeter precision.
  • Extremely comfortable: The padded seat is plenty thick for hours of playing.
  • Variety of seat styles: Choose the one that best suits your body and playing style.
  • Superior build quality: These thrones are built to last, with heavy-duty steel bases and top-notch materials.

Drawbacks:

  • Premium price tag: Roc N Soc thrones are an investment, costing significantly more than most generic options.

Gibraltar: The Solid Value Choice

Gibraltar thrones offer a fantastic balance of affordability and quality. Their 9608 model is a teacher’s favorite, boasting a comfortable vinyl-padded seat, sturdy double-braced legs, and a reliable height adjustment mechanism. While it doesn’t have the bells and whistles of a Roc N Soc, it gets the job done for most students and seasoned drummers alike.

Benefits:

  • Excellent value for money: You get a lot of throne for your buck.
  • Durable and reliable: Built to withstand years of practice and pounding.
  • Comfortable seat: The padded vinyl provides adequate support for most players.

Drawbacks:

  • Limited adjustability: The height adjustment mechanism isn’t as precise as Roc N Soc’s.
  • Fewer seat options: You’re stuck with the standard round top, which might not be ideal for everyone.

Generic Thrones: A Risky Gamble

Cheap, generic thrones might seem tempting, but they’re often a false economy. Wobbly bases, uncomfortable seats, and unreliable height adjustments can lead to frustration and even injuries. Unless you’re on a super tight budget and just need something temporary, it’s best to avoid these thrones altogether.

Drum Throne is Worth the Investment

A good throne will last for years and make a world of difference in your students’ playing experience. Consider offering demo models of different thrones in your teaching space so students can find the perfect fit. The best throne is the one that keeps your students comfortable, focused, and excited to play. Experiment with different options, listen to your students’ feedback, and don’t be afraid to invest in quality. A happy drummer with a supportive throne is a recipe for success on the drums!

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Drumstick Numbers and Letters

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Deciphering the Code: Drumsticks 101 – What Drumstick Numbers and Letters Really Mean

Stepping into the world of drumming can be exhilarating, but the sheer variety of drumsticks can be overwhelming! Numbers, letters, wood types… what do they all mean?

The Number Game:

The numbers on drumsticks represent their thickness. The lower the number, the thicker the stick. Here’s the breakdown:

  • High Numbers (7A, 8D): Think featherweight finesse. These slender sticks are for nimble playing, perfect for jazz, and delicate cymbal work. These are your speed demons, allowing for lightning-fast rolls and intricate patterns.
  • Mid-Range (5A, 5B): The golden middle ground! These are the most popular, offering a comfortable balance between thickness and weight. They’re versatile, handling everything from rock to funk to pop with ease.
  • Low Numbers (2B, 1A): Powerhouse percussion! These beefy sticks pack a punch, ideal for heavy hitters in hard rock, metal, and marching bands. They require more muscle but deliver a bigger, bolder sound.

Beyond the Numbers:

Now, here’s where it gets interesting: the letter after the number adds another layer of information:

  • A (orchestra): This is a lighter and thinner stick, the perfect size for someone who may not know where to start. Think orchestral playing or expansive rock drumming.
  • B(band): This signifies a medium weight stick, making it easier to keep up with a louder band. This is a great choice for a concert band or a metal drummer.
  • S(street): This was traditionally used for marching band sticks, often heavier and longer to project through parades and football games. You might not see them as often in other genres.
  • D(dance): This is rarer, but indicates a stick designed for dance bands. The most popular “D” stick, the 8D, is a long and light option often used in swing playing.

In Addition to Drumstick Numbers and Letters…

Beyond the basic code, here are some other things to consider when choosing your sticks:

  • Wood types: Hickory is the classic, offering durability and flexibility. Maple is very light and has a high amount of flex. Birch is the heaviest stick for more tone and control.
  • Tip shapes: Acorn tips are round and smooth, good for all-around playing. Barrel tips have less midrange overtones, offering more cymbal articulation. Remember, the less wood that hits the drum, the more defined the sound will be.
  • Coating: Lacquered sticks have a slick finish, for a comfortably grip but can slip out of your hands if you sweat a lot. Uncoated sticks have a natural feel which may be preferrable if you don’t want to impale other band members with your sticks.

Your drumming journey is all about finding your own voice. Experiment with different stick sizes, wood types, and tip shapes to see what speaks to you. Your drum teacher can be your best guide in navigating the vast world of drumsticks. So grab your perfect pair, let the rhythm take hold, and rock out! For more information about drumsticks, please contact me.