What do Billy Cobham, Simon Phillips, Kenny Aronoff, Daniel Humair, and Lenny White have in common? They all play ride patterns with their left hand. Left-hand ride refers to the technique drummers use who play drumset in a normal, right-hand configuration. However, these drummers play ride patterns on the hi-hat and ride cymbal (on the left side) using the left hand (matched grip). With the list of notable and innovative drummers previously mentioned who employ this technique, clearly it can be used successfully. Learning to incorporate left-hand ride techniques can add new dimensions to your playing. First of all, most right-hand drummers have disproportionate strength and coordination in their hands. No matter how much time a person spends practicing evenness between hands, the right hand dominates the two. Riding with the left hand increases the strength of the left hand. Both hands become more equal in power and technique. Not […]

February 1985 Issue