The Truth About Hand Technique | Bruce Becker

[@Thanasis_Tsakirakis]

Favorite part is 23:20 "In Essence, it's not the note you play, it's the space around it. The choreographing and the move, that really helps to enunciate and bring the depth to that note." Some of the wisest words I've ever heard about drumming.

[@ozzylescano]

When he talks about versatility and specifically mentions the approach to the ride cymbal, I remember what a teacher told me about grips. I said I played American, but I knew how French and German grip worked, even though I didn't use them. He asked me "What do you eat your food with?". Jokingly, I said "That depends on what I am eating, if it's soup or a steak, I'll use different cutlery". He looked at me and then I understood: Grips, like cutlery, are tools you should know how to use to adapt yourself to what is in front of you

[@nosfy]

As a student of Bruce's , this is largely part of our approach !!

[@felipejotz7054]

@@nosfy how long have you been studying with him? Did you notice a significant improvement?

[@nosfy]

@@felipejotz7054 over 3 years now , and yes it has absolutely been noticably game changing for me. In ways I couldn't express because you have to experience it !

[@doomprogger6345]

To all the people who always ask why drumeo couldn´t invite drummer x or drummer y or drummer z: Don´t you have any respect for the actual drummer who is presented in the video? I mean, what do you have to say about this amazing grooving guy? I think he is simply fantastic!

[@xxxYYZxxx]

I can understand if some folks wanted to see a "celebrity" drum interview, but this is a compelling video regardless. People crack drummer jokes. amd the subtlety of what Bruce is explaining is easy to overlook. "How hard can it be to hold a drumstick?" jokes the violinist. Drummers are often some of the best "pure" (meaning regardless of instrument) musicians. Take 3 half-ass decent players, add a top-notch drummer and you've got a serious band. Take 3 virtuosos with a dud drummer and it's crap.

[@beatnicksbeats]

Drummers are the back bone of the band.

[@jemmace2586]

really well put! haha love it.

[@CipherSerpico]

This guy not only has absolutely IMPECCABLE, BEAUTIFUL hand technique, but he also is insanely melodic and tasteful. This man is literally a perfect player. I pity anyone that doesn’t realize this.

[@shawncartwright338]

This dude is really good...

[@gabvalente]

That openning song: simple, smooth and hella groovy. That´s all I want as a drummer!

[@sirosvaziri]

This guy is the living definition of smooth.

[@robertdore9592]

Beautifully restrained and tasteful playing.

[@williamkjwilliamkj1815]

I was just thinking the same thing. This might be the smoothest thing I have ever seen.

[@ChristopherSackett]

It was pretty simple, no crazy fills, just so smooth and groovy, he shined when he needed to

[@miguelguiral415]

Dr. Enthusiastic me

[@markdemell3717]

Oh man ,you just read my mind ,I was thinking smooth whipped peanut butter .I usually do not compare drummers but ,I am so curious how a speed metal drummer would play this song ? HHMMM? Very Interesting .

[@Safriguy]

It's striking how relaxed Bruce is when he plays and man...that pocket! Digging this lesson Drumeo dudes.

[@FededeDiosDrums]

first of all i think this was the best lesson on drumeo ever. bruce is an obvious excelent teacher and very very educated, he is very smart obviously. my favorite part of the lesson was when he showed us exercices to develop the bounce point on the stick and how he showed his aproach to griping/following the bounces with the fingers. this was highly inspirational, thank you

[@jasonsmith2775]

I SO concur!

[@granthoglund7012]

Hands down the most helpful video on drumming I've seen on youtube (and I've watched a lot, haven't we all?) Watching him play is like watching a graceful dancer's movements. Thanks Bruce.

[@ryan0000e]

The whole lesson is a gem! I love his approach to the subject of technique. It's not a closed minded, "this is how you HAVE to play" approach. It's about equipping yourself with tools to handle many situations and obstacles. Thank you!

[@likeatombomb]

Wow, his playing is amazing. His on point dynamic and rythmic modulation is really inspiring .

[@BryanHeadDrummer]

Thanks for the shout out Bruce. I studied with Freddie Gruber 20 years ago. Lately, I was having some technical issues and it was time to "re-tool", which drummers do periodically because it's such a technical instrument. So I went to Bruce. Bruce has condensed the Freddie approach with his own and the other master teachers' techniques. It's incredible what this approach does for your playing without changing what you do as an "artist". It just gives you the facility to effortlessly play what you hear. And kudos to Drumeo!

[@WhelanDrums]

Thats unbelievable Bryan that you got to study under Freddie. Must of been some experience and i am so happy for you. WOW!!

[@portal432]

Have you heard any of his playing? Freddie seems like a mystery, almost like a mythical figure, people think hes genius or a snake oil salesman. How was your experience with him?

[@portal432]

Roni Vartiainen has anyone heard him drumming? I’m not trying to be trollish or argumentative, I’m genuinely interested in hearing gruber on a song

[@portal432]

Roni Vartiainen interesting. Ok I’ll look around

[@danlc95]

@@portal432 - People have an unusual obsession with hearing Freddie play. For me, the work he's done through his students is proof enough he knew something.

[@AngieAmraAnderson]

Wonderful lesson. I am a percussionist who specialises in African drumming and it comes a time when the technique is calling and this is the time. Thank you for such an informative lesson. Here in the UK and now subscribed to your channel.

[@donrice8440]

The best so far my type of drummer, I`m going to buy his book & DVD. From a 70 year old Englishman.

[@JoaquinCorreaDrums]

I never heard anyone get such a beautiful tone out of a practice pad.

[@BruceBeckerDrums]

Thank you Joaquin Correa!

[@JoaquinCorreaDrums]

Oh cool! I didn't know you'd be reading the comments. I honestly believe that. Actually what's funny is that at first it was reminding me of something, then I remembered that only Weckl had managed to get a similar sound (in his evolution series DVD)... Now seeing you studied with Freddie Gruber as well it makes sense.

[@JoaquinCorreaDrums]

@@BruceBeckerDrums also could you pretty please make a short video explaining what to do when playing a paradiddle at tempos above 200bpm?

[@pennybeats4435]

I loved the first 6 minutes of him playing... Shows you what a true professional drums like!

[@wayneswanson3158]

I have been playing for about 15 years now. I, for the most part, am self taught through DVD's and lessons like this. I absolutely LOVE the explanation of the different grips, and how easily one can transition between them depending on what the music calls for.

[@donaldtyson7894]

Awesome technique! So much appreciated your a great drummer.

[@simonjonasmusic8410]

As a beginner, this is without a doubt my favorite video on your channel. Incredible knowledge, perfectly explained. A true master. Thanks for uploading this

[@MrBassab]

That flawless technique brings all of the drums and cymbals to life without having to hit hard. Really awesome

[@paulaustin66]

What a fantastic lesson. My favourite aspect of the lesson was Bruce's ability to clearly communicate his concepts and ideas. The whole hour was packed with insight into his approach to hand technique. Can't wait to watch the Edge course.

[@jackieperseghetti5446]

My favorite part of this was Bruce's clear explanation and also demonstration of nuances in technique. Watching him play, was a treat in seeing it all in action. What a great gift this lesson is to the drumming world in challenging us to find freedom within constraints of control. LOVED this lesson -- and will watch repeatedly to mine out some more nuances. Many great A-HAH moments.Thank you, Bruce for coming to Drumeo and giving such a great lesson! I can't wait to check out the Drumeo course you will be doing for us! Dave--I had fun watching your expressions and reactions, too. :-)

[@bradbianco]

It was good to watch Mr. Becker play the second song after all the previous tips/instruction/philosophy that he gave. Watching him play... so easy. So relaxed and I noticed that the tone of the drums (and cymbals) really fit the style of music being played. I've watched a number of these videos and have been dazzled on more than one occasion but truly its people like Mr. Becker who've really enabled (empowered even) me to up my game and overall enjoyment of this instrument. Thanks for bringing him to drumeo. Sincerely, Brad (Las Vegas, NV)

[@joshkitchen7800]

I had a private lesson with Bruce a few years ago, when he played with his brother in Ashland Kentucky. He opened my eyes to a lot of things with moeller technique. I’ll always appreciate that hour I got to spend with him picking his brain.

[@ThomasRisherJr]

"it's not just fast, for fast. you have to also facilitate what you want to play rhythmically and melodically to what you are doing." This message can not be emphasized enough.

[@WhelanDrums]

Spot on Thomas very well put 🙏

[@LucasSchaffer]

24:18 - 24:10

[@ryanb1874]

And how about, indefinatly fast, not just for a half measure, 😉

[@markdemell3717]

Three thumbs up for your comment. I wonder how a speed metal drummer would play this song? Interesting.

[@JourneyDrummer1972]

I've been talking with Drumeo Staff about signing up of annual EDGE subscription. "This Session" sold me! The interaction and in depth relationship with guests makes one feel as if we're in studio with you. My favorite part of this session with Bruce: "Becoming One" with your stick as if its a an "Extension rather than Addition" of your extremity. German to French is something Steve Smith taught me in the late 70's but didn't sink in like Bruce's demonstration just did. Maybe due to my being 8 then, 54 now lol. I'm teaching my son now.."This is by far the best Technique Informative lesson" anyone of any skill level can learn something from. "MaHalo"! Geno and Kahner Aloha Hardin"..

[@BruceBeckerDrums]

Thank you Geno Wayne Hardin!

[@benfaulkenberry3517]

This lesson has been a huge help. I never realized how much more comfortable I am in a French position. Helps with fatigue and accuracy in my snare grooves. I really like the idea of thinking of my hands as having a 'Home' position, too. Helps me get back to the 1 if I get carried away with a fill. Great job!

[@frankgatewood2977]

This is like gold. Solid packed insightful information . This is the best drum info video I've ever seen. Mr. Becker KNOWS and knows how to explain that knowledge.

[@RamonMontagner]

Bruce is an amazing teacher..I always learn a lot with each video I watch...Thank you!!

[@tacokeith3344]

This is one of the best Drumeo lessons I've seen. Not a specific moment but my favorite part of the lesson was how Bruce continually reiterated that giving attention to technique is essential no matter what your current approach to the instrument may be.

[@kristofftheplumber7126]

Oct 18 baby! My favourite part of this lesson was simply all of the amazing names thrown around! For a modern day drummer the internet is saturated with names like jordinson, portney, barker, but this dude comes from a classical background and threw some names around I hadnt heard of yet! Thanks for the exposure! And not just that, but wow is he well spoken and does he ever know his stuff. Incredible, and REALLY to the heart of what making a life long dedication to the drums looks like, and HOW to play the drums safely for a lifetime. Now give me that book.

[@ikouze1]

Best part of the lesson is the level of detail Bruce goes in about hand-finger-arm motion and placement, fantastic lesson.

[@tremebondo1]

I think Bruce is an amazing musician and teacher, he clarifies so many things in just a few words and examples and reveals the counter-intuitive relationship between german and french approaches, amazing!!! Thanks Drumeo Thanks Bruce

[@bobbyoiler99]

I love how smooth every movement is!!!! My favorite part is when he talked about the importance of tone, awesome!!!!!!!

[@Deagledrumzz]

What a knowledgable intelligent teacher/drummer. That blues for Albi is a wonderful tune ,along with his explanations on the French/German/Moellar grip this is a very concise clear presentation. This is a wonderful production from Drumeo. Major props for having this man on.

[@benchignacio982]

This is a kind i love the most style of drumming. You are my inspiration. -simple -smooth -relax -feels

[@Tonyclaret1]

Great Bruce, experience, competence and serenity.

[@SimpsonSound]

My absolute favourite part of this video is when Bruce says, "In essence, it's not the not you play. It's the space around it. It's the choreographing in the move that really helps to enunciate and bring the depth to that note." This is the best explanation of "groove within technique" that I've ever heard. Not only is Bruce a great drummer, he's a fantastic teacher. I feel that he really cares that you actually get what he's explaining. Thanks for having him and Dave, you're really a great interviewer!

[@dennisthate5787]

The steps of imitation, assimilation, and innovation are the backbone of improvisation, Thanks Bruce !

[@ddflach]

Such an elegant and tasteful drumming alongside the most crucial lesson in playing drums, it all start with handling the sticks. Thanks Drumeo

[@TazzSmk]

5 years later my English is good enough to properly understand what this video is about, thanks for keeping these videos online and for free Drumeo! :)

[@HarryJoiner]

Phenomenal drummer. An even better teacher.

[@calebtupili2131]

I am a young drummer who aspires to pursue drumming seriously. I am firstly very thankful for Drumeo, as they have provided the perfect, holistic learning experience for young and passionate drummers like myself. Now for my favourite and most inspirational part of the lesson: 37:00 where Mr. Becker explains the role grip plays in accenting. Where angle must not drive you to deciding how to accent the note. The reason this was my favourite aspect of the lesson would be that, this is the element most drummers struggle with. And I must admit I am one of them. So I am really thankful for the marvellous lesson as it has really changed my technique.

[@FelixG2070]

Thank you drumeo...this is the most poignant lesson for me at this stage of my drum lessons journey. The nuisances between french and german grip to the phasing of technique with different genres of music....so impressed with this. Great lesson, great drumming, cheers again!!

[@ricochetts]

This man is a very good teacher, his talent is teaching. Very impressed about smooth explanation. Respect.

[@YuvalAlonithe]

This is the best lesson shown on Drumeo so far I think. Mainly thanks to the fact that it seems that Bruce is good at teaching

[@ChadFarrand]

Bruce Becker!! Wow! Thank you Drumeo for having this lesson with Bruce. How am I supposed to choose a favorite part of this lesson? I've been trying to master the French technique for the last year, and this is the best illustration I've seen. So much of feeling the swing is so good. Highlighting the movement of the body/arms/hands - very Gruber- is awesome! Maybe the part of utilizing different grips in each hand based on the style is my fav. (?) Super helpful.

[@kkerrjr]

Such a wealth of knowledge! Loved watching how free Bruce moves! Nothing at all forced! Wish I was that free!

[@DrumeoOfficial]

Hey! Congrats! You've been chosen as one of the winners for Bruce Becker's DVD and book package! Please message me at [e-mail].

[@mattplaydrum]

I enjoyed the way Bruce talks about the body from a mechanical perspective. It's always good to be reminded that drumming is a game of physics.

[@Fabaoguitarbrazil]

Oh man!!! About the 28th minute he explains the German/Moeller grip in a great way. I think now it will finally work!!! One of the best lessons on this channel. Thank you very much!!!

[@Drumma75]

My favorite part about this is? An hour lesson with Bruce Becker! You have a subject, and a master teaching it. I truly love all your videos, different drummers and their concepts or tips, you can learn something from every one of them. But I get more out of a more focused lesson like this. Either way, you guys are absolutely killing it.

[@170adamb1]

It's so frustrating not having a kit at home!! Videos like this just make me want to play!! Years ago living at my folks house I always had a kit to play and it was always the most fun I had on the kit!!

[@scottlucas6025]

Every drummer should watch and practice this, best Drumeo video IMHO.

[@hoseabelton4282]

I like the way he approaches music. Pure professional. GOD bless!

[@gabrielepaone]

Awesome lesson, in particular I like when Bruce talks about feel the elasticity of the stick, search the balance point, calibrate tension and release

[@Heathensrule]

Those Paiste cymbals sound so, so good. Wow! What a great endorsement, Paiste! Give Bruce Becker a raise!

[@VinceAnity]

favorite part of this lesson is the depth of it. Clearly not a one-view lesson... Great...

[@QuaidMcClung]

I love these cymbals. They look amazing and sound wonderful

[@raydrysdale2726]

The truth about comfort behind the kit! As an Engineer, Bruce is my kind of teacher, love it!

[@gionedasilva]

Fell in love with drums again because of Bruce! I purchased his 'Drum Technique Made Easy' and am really enjoying! So refreshing! His coolness and easy way to play the drums is inspiring! Legend!

[@MaraContrary]

My favourite part of the lesson was his explanation of the Moeller technique. Probably the best one I have seen on the internet ever.

[@bc24couto1]

this has got to be 1 of the best videos I've got the most important technique questions...answered and awesome exercises...and that a lot of teachers don't follow through with hand technique ...amazing I'm getting closers and closers to being a student in drumeo....again you guys are awsome

[@raulmontesdeoca7843]

Fantastic Lesson! Bruce Becker makes it look so easy. This lesson was absolute gold. Thank you.

[@vanderszpak]

Cool lesson. I liked how he went to the details with the hand technique but the best part was with the short hints for improving the process of drumming in general, like the thing with using the body weight and understanding the mechanics of the arm movement. Very nice!

[@Kyp031]

I agree on him talking about facilitating. I am a metal drummer by hear, and most musical endeavors but these lessons apply to all and helped my playing tremendously. great stuff

[@retrogore420]

Damn. I've been drumming for over 20 years and this makes me feel like I know absolutely nothing. Humbling for sure. Gotta use it to become inspired and become a better player.

[@danielnunez6010]

I think there was not like a single part that i like the most , i have learned so much in this lesson that i cant say wich part was better , he seems to be a very good teacher ,person and musician as well !!!

[@DidYouReadEULA]

Simply sublime playing on that first tune. A true Maestro.

[@cresk]

One of the best lessons and teacher I’ve seen.

[@jasonsmith2775]

This brought a tear to BOTH eyes! As fluid as Ritchie Haywood!

[@paringatai]

Wow! Thank you Bruce and Drumeo for this fantastic lesson...I had'nt heard of "socket - hinge and hinge" before but after seeing the overhead shot of Bruce's right arm articulating each joint ... My view of my right arm is changed forever ... Thanks again

[@jackregan8038]

So many times I have scrolled past this video... I'm so annoyed i didn't watch this sooner! I have another favourite drummer to add the list! What a great lesson. Shame on me for not watching it sooner!

[@NeddyRich]

I like your style and proficiency in playing.I bet you could play about any style and do a superb job!!

[@markmayhemNMRK]

What a inspiring lesson on the French and german grips plus lovely exercises to demo this world class drummer knowledge experience from many years of being with Freddie Gruber. Well done Drumeo for sharing this lesson with the world

[@marccrossland785]

Bruce is the man. Greatest teacher around.

[@yphui9783]

Thanks Bruce and Drumeo for this such a very good lesson! My favorite parts were the Bruce's reminder: "balance point is important for life-long drum player" and "tension and release is the key of control"...

[@gerardleveque3568]

This is the 3thrd time I watch this lesson, and I am still noticing things I did not notice the previous time! Great lesson! And My favorite part of the lesson is, being a father myself, I love the part when Bruce says he is a twilight dad, being a father of a 3 year old daughter and a 4 month old son, and that he has less time for yoga than before! I can relate to that! :) Congrats for the new born, I'm shure you already have drum kit ready for him!

[@federicozanoni817]

Nice lesson! I really liked Bruce's explanation about the correspondence between moves and notes' spacing

[@tonikaila5512]

Another great lesson from Drumeo! Wau! That's really helpful and inspiring, and what a great teacher you are Mr Becker, it's hard to realise how much knowledge goes into anything before someone starts to open the secrets, so many thanks for taking the time and sharing your insights!

[@dougdunzik2048]

this lesson helps so much with what I've been working on. nuances of hands and fingers and how the stick bonds. great lessson, watching it twice...or more

[@TomasLuoto]

My favourite part(s) of this lesson was the elaborate way he explained how it is always good to combine different grips and when to use whatever feels and sounds right. I've always done that for some reason.

[@spzmartin2270]

this is so much better then 99% of the "you tube" drummers we see with all flash and no substance or pocket playing. IMHO its all about the musicality. My favorite lesson ever on drumeo

[@salgsofia867]

Great hands technique. Thanks Drumeo.

[@nathanscholtz2958]

My favourite part of this lesson is his grasp on playing relaxed... helped alot

[@xaviermercado2079]

Thank you for putting names on the styles of hand positions and to stay loose! It is a big one that you answered for me because my arms were starting to hurt. The ball, hinge and hinge is the answer to my dilemma, I just started to play drums. I am left handed but that will not stop me!

[@theteatimetrio2895]

amazing lesson! my favourite part is the in depth look at looseness and tension between the hand and stick in different grips. Bruce makes subtle nuances accessible through easy to understand explanations

[@taylordoiron8785]

The "space" between notes is always something that I loved exploring but had a hard time explaining, but Bruce's example of accented triplet double paradiddles vs. accented eighth note 3/4 double paradiddles was the perfect way of proving the idea. Such a different feel between two very similar patterns!

[@aussierulescoach9959]

Awesome lesson!! loved the tips about the stick pressures and pivot points

[@haaarrrggg]

One of my favorite lessons on Drumeo. Bruce has so much wisdom to share. My favorite part was how he exemplifies how to apply technique and make it musical with the paradiddle exercises and related it with tap dancing. Make it swing using the body movements.

[@farresto]

Excellent lesson, not only a great drummer but mindblowing explanations. Thanks a lot for this, Bruce!

[@Ohm51]

Awesome Player and incredibly intricate detail on the nuances of differening hand grips and the mechanics involved!I've never heard anyone approach the subject of all of this in such cogent detail _ tension/ release _ pivot points described as hinge points in the fingers, wrist & elbow and the majors muscle of the shoulder as ball joint. Incredible lesson!!!

[@petermurphy3424]

I'm a senior beginner and loved this content. mixing up the grip is like a license to improve. I felt it the concept but could not resolve it in my mind. great session. feeling inspired

[@goingnowere101]

i loved when he spoke about utilizing both grips. that really helped informed me that the way I've been practicing my technique and playing is the effective way.

[@deanmatters]

fantastic lesson. as a teacher myself, i found this lesson to confirm many aspects of what i teach my students and giving myself extra information on how to further my own very similar technique. it was so great to have confirmation that im on the correct path. thank you Bruce and Drumeo.

[@davidaustin9638]

Very tasty drumming. Reminds me of my drum teacher, so glad I have a jazz /music-reading background because of him. And I am a hard rock thrash metal double kicker now. Thanks Drumeo! Keep up the good work!

[@menzerroku4708]

A very important lesson, you're hand technique is what you have to be good at in order to play your drums and get the noise out of your drum kit you want. Gotta give this video a thumbs up

[@bluebow68]

I am new to drumming..very new!..And I love the physiognomy of this tutorial..Many thanks for being to articulate and detailed..It means a lot..Greetings from the U.K.

[@marcella2650]

Love Becker's playing! A true genius.

[@OctaviusAzura]

This has got to be one of the very best lessons out here!

[@DrumeoOfficial]

Remember to leave a comment below with your favorite part of the lesson for a chance to WIN 1 of 5 copies of Bruce Becker's book "Puzzles, Rhythms, and Riddles"! LESSON INDEX: 0:06 - "Free Bond" by David Becker Tribune 5:55 - Introduction 11:40 - The Truth About Hand Technique 45:55 - "Blues for Albie" by David Becker Tribune 51:00 - Q and A! 1:02:23 - Drum Solo

[@sticktrik]

Александр Лысенко Because they have to pay him!!! It's not that easy, buddy!!!!

[@DrumeoOfficial]

We have tried before but it's not as easy as you think to coordinate schedules.

[@stevenmiller1144]

Loved the "Blues for Albie" section!

[@unknownyoutubechannel6196]

Drumeo My favourite part is the song he was jamming to at the very beginning

[@patrickchae2606]

My favorite part of the lesson was the explanations on the French and German grips.

[@Yio_21]

My favorite part is between 0:07 and 1:02:15... His contribution to the comunity... Great Teacher...