Drum Lesson: Billy Ashbaugh: Bass Drum Technique

Original Date: 09/30/2010

Today's lesson will take a look at some bass drum techniques I've worked on over the years. I'll cover topics about how to strike the drum (heel up vs. heel down) as well as what to do after you strike the drum (burying the beater vs. letting the beater come up off the head). I'll also share a couple of ways to work on playing two quick notes back to back with a single pedal. Enjoy! http://www.DrummerConnection.com/drumlessons/49674-billy-ashbaugh-bass-drum-t... http://www.DrummerConnection.com/drumlessons

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[exportpro99]

I've never been able to play heel down. I get shin splits like crazy, then my legs just don't want to work. Either way is fine though. Anyone else get shin splints?

[makakamakaki]

I cannot play with heel up.I'm a rock musician but I just cannot.And,drummerconnection,y­ou just got subscriber!

[xJohnny9]

interesting. i always wondered which one was "correct". turns out they both are! i shoulda known.

[lumyingluo]

informative!! thanks^^

[billyashbaugh]

@Hodgendazs YES...I do think you can get away with heel down, even with double bass. I think you "typically" tend to get more power heel up....however many great drummers have played heel down and got plenty of power. Myron Grombacker (original drummer for Pat Benatar) played this way & he had an amazing amount of power in his playing. I say by all means play the way you feel most comfortable.

[runtifish]

Just the ticket.......thanks guys, excellent work at drummer connection as per usual!

[Hodgendazs]

Also, would you say that you could viably get away with just playing heel down? Even for double bass? I understand when you say less power, but for the most part I see heel up everywhere, however, I feel more comfortable with heel down.

[Hodgendazs]

Thanks for the video! This is exactly what I was looking for to help! I need to work on heel up more. Heel down I have down pretty good.

[cardsfanatic]

thankyou, very helpful.

[marciosousa34]

great speed. thanks for the drum vid