What can I do if I want to work the kick pedal on Bass Drum with my heel?

Working the Kick Pedal on Bass Drum with Your Heel: Techniques and Exercises

When it comes to playing the bass drum with your heel, there are a few techniques and exercises that can help you improve your foot technique and control. This article will explore the different techniques, provide practice exercises, and offer tips to enhance your bass drum playing skills.

Seat Height

Before diving into the techniques, it’s important to set up your drum throne correctly. Adjust the height of your drum throne so that your hips are slightly higher than your knees. This position helps maintain balance and allows for proper foot technique.

Heel-Up vs. Heel-Down Technique

There are two main techniques for playing the bass drum with your heel: heel-down and heel-up. Each technique has its own advantages and is suited for different musical styles.

  • Heel-Down Technique: In this technique, you drop your heel to the ground and rest your foot on the remaining surface of the pedal. The ankle acts as the pivot point for transferring energy from the foot to the pedal. Heel-down technique is best suited for soft and controlled playing, commonly found in jazz or acoustic settings.
  • Heel-Up Technique: With this technique, your heel is slightly raised off the pedal board by 1-2 inches. Heel-up technique offers more options in terms of dynamics and speed, and it puts less strain on the shin muscle. Similar to heel-down technique, the focus is on the pivoting of the ankle to provide the stroke. Heel-up technique is commonly used for loud and fast playing, often found in rock or metal genres.

Burying the Beater

In bass drum technique, “burying the beater” refers to leaving the beater pressed against the bass drum head after it has been played. This technique produces a quick and muted sound. However, if you prefer a more resonant sound, you can choose not to bury the beater and allow it to naturally rebound off the head. Experiment with both techniques to find the sound that suits your musical preference.

Practice Exercises

To improve your foot technique and control, it’s essential to practice exercises that focus on foot independence, speed, and control. Here are some exercises you can try:

  1. Alternating Singles: Practice playing single strokes (RLRLRLRL) with both heel-up and heel-down techniques.
  2. Alternating Doubles: Work on double strokes (LLRRLLRR) using both heel-up and heel-down techniques.
  3. Alternating Triplets: Practice triplets (LLLRRRLLLRRR) with emphasis on maintaining evenness and control.
  4. Combined Triplets with Accents: Incorporate accents into your triplets (RLRLRLRLRLRL) to develop foot control and dynamics.
  5. Paradiddles: Explore paradiddles (RLRRLRLL) with your foot, focusing on precision and coordination.

Remember to practice these exercises with both heel-up and heel-down techniques to develop versatility and adaptability in your playing.

By consistently practicing these exercises and techniques, you can enhance your foot technique on the bass drum and improve your overall drumming skills.

Sources:

  1. Video: “Heel-Up Whip (Kick Drum Technique)” – YouTube. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zfng2ZF4oaA
  2. “Heel-Up vs. Heel-Down Bass Drum Foot Technique” – Drum Magazine. Retrieved from https://drummagazine.com/lesson-heel-up-vs-heel-down-bass-drum-foot-technique/
  3. “Heel Up vs. Heel Down Drumming – Bass Drum Technique” – Drum Radar. Retrieved from https://www.drumradar.com/heel-up-vs-heel-down-drumming/

© 2021 DrumRadar.com. All rights reserved.

FAQs

What is the difference between heel-up and heel-down drumming techniques?

Heel-up drumming technique involves raising the heel slightly off the pedal board, allowing for more dynamics and speed. Heel-down technique, on the other hand, keeps the entire foot planted on the pedal, providing a more controlled and softer sound. Both techniques have their advantages and are suited for different musical styles.

Which technique should I use for playing the bass drum with my heel?



The choice of technique depends on the style of music and the desired sound. Heel-up technique is commonly used for louder and faster playing, such as in rock or metal genres. Heel-down technique is better suited for softer and more controlled playing, often found in jazz or acoustic settings. It’s best to become comfortable with both techniques and switch between them as needed.

How can I improve my foot technique when using the heel on the bass drum pedal?

To improve your foot technique, it’s important to practice exercises that focus on foot independence, speed, and control. Start with simple exercises like alternating singles and doubles, gradually increasing the difficulty. Incorporate accents, dynamics, and different patterns to challenge yourself and develop your foot control.

Should I bury the beater or let it rebound off the bass drum head?

Whether to bury the beater or let it rebound off the bass drum head depends on the desired sound. Burying the beater against the head produces a quick and muted sound. If you prefer a more resonant sound, you can choose not to bury the beater and allow it to naturally rebound off the head. Experiment with both techniques to find the sound that suits your musical preference.

How can I adjust my drum throne to improve my heel technique?

Adjusting your drum throne height is crucial for maintaining balance and proper foot technique. Make sure your hips are slightly higher than your knees when seated. This position helps provide stability and allows for more efficient foot movement when using the heel on the bass drum pedal.

Can I use the heel technique on other pedals, such as the hi-hat pedal?



Yes, the heel technique can be applied to other pedals, including the hi-hat pedal. Just like with the bass drum pedal, heel-up technique provides more options in terms of dynamics and speed, while heel-down technique offers a softer and more controlled sound. Experiment with different techniques on various pedals to find what works best for your playing style.

How long does it take to become proficient with the heel technique on the bass drum?

The time it takes to become proficient with the heel technique on the bass drum varies for each individual. It depends on factors such as your prior drumming experience, practice consistency, and dedication to learning the technique. With regular practice and focused exercises, you can expect to see improvements in your foot technique over time.

Are there any specific exercises to develop heel technique on the bass drum?

Yes, there are specific exercises that can help develop your heel technique on the bass drum. Some exercises include practicing alternating singles, doubles, triplets, and paradiddles with both heel-up and heel-down techniques. You can also incorporate accents, dynamics, and various foot patterns to challenge yourself and improve your foot control.