The Double Stroke Open Roll is very important rudiment, and will consequently be built upon for a class of rudiments called the Diddles. The Double Stroke Open Roll consists of alternating hits, with each single hit producing two hits (a hit and then a rebound). The Double Stroke Open Roll as an alternating rudiment, and can be started with either the right or left hand. Special importance needs to be made to ensure that each double or diddle maintains even and consistent spacing.
Start by striking the drum surface, then alternately strike the drum surface with the opposite hand. Each single hit needs to produce a second hit or rebound. Use a metronome to produce clean, well-time strokes that are evenly spaced. You can start by playing the doubles using your wrists for each stroke. Focus on keeping both alternating strokes at an even volume. This can be done by watching your stick heights during each stroke, to be sure they are all coming up to an even distance from the drum head. If the first stroke of each set of doubles is louder than the second, your Double Stroke Open Roll will sound uneven. Eventually, you will begin to bounce the sticks to get the double strokes. This can take some time to perfect, but it will allow you to play with much greater speed.
Roll Rudiments / Diddle Rudiments / Flam Rudiments / Drag Rudiments
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