I’m not a drummer, so maybe someone who knows more about the noble art can help me out.
I was watching the video of the Beatles performing Hey Jude, and it struck me that Ringo appeared to be using unusually long drum sticks. My questions are:
1. Are the sticks he’s using particularly long, or is it just an optical illusion?
2. Are there a variety of stick lengths to choose from, or is it standard?
3. If so, would a drummer generally tend to favour one length, or vary it depending on what he’s playing?
4. What effect would a different length have on the sound produced?
Thanks in anticipation!
fentonsteve says
Moosey likes a bash – no sniggering at the back – as does my Offspring the Younger. I bookmarked this page years ago as he gets through a regular supply of sticks.
There are many variables, not just length. And that’s before you start getting into brushes, beaters, etc.
https://www.pmtonline.co.uk/blog/2020/02/07/how-to-choose-drumsticks-letters-numbers-explained/
Moose the Mooche says
Premier CCs if you can get them. Which you can’t.
That’s the only advice I can provide.
fentonsteve says
“Their extended length caters to players seeking a longer stick, providing greater reach around {the kit}. Crafted from resilient American hickory and equipped with a large acorn tip for warm and dark tones”
Did you write that, Moosey? I’ve come over all flustered.
Moose the Mooche says
Well that is rather overheated copy I must say. Even so it doesn’t mention that they’re ideal for firing into the bassist’s back, which is almost the main reason drumsticks exist.
I didn’t think they were particularly long, if anything a fairly vanilla entry-level stick (steady) in terms of thickness and shape (I said steady!)
BryanD says
At least no one has mentioned finger techniques or rimshots.
fitterstoke says
Plopp – blunggg!
fentonsteve says
I find after a bit of finger technique and a rim shot, I end up having a quick paradiddle.
Moose the Mooche says
A triplet roll, a stroppy flam and I’m done.
Rigid Digit says
Always disappointed when I get 2 drumsticks in a 3 piece KFC meal
Moose the Mooche says
…..and they make your hihat greasy
Jaygee says
Ba Da Dum! Tish!
Moose the Mooche says
In this case it would be more like a muted sort of plopp – blunggg
hubert rawlinson says
Why not try the whole verbal technique?
fitterstoke says
Then there’s this…
Sniffity says
911 Truthers get upset too – “Where are the wings?” is the usual outcry.
Gardener says
I got a pair of drum sticks with a Teach Yourself Drums album box set, but despite listening to the album a couple of times have not taken up playing the drums.
Mike_H says
My jazz drummer/teacher pal Rick, 30+ years professional experience, currently uses Pellwood sticks.
https://www.pellwoodeu.co.uk/x-linesticks