Key to Control™ - Open Every Door
Can you play fast and quiet? Can you play slow and loud? Controlling speed and volume are the two most important tasks for any drummer. The Key To Control™ system will help you master tempo along with dynamics and help you focus on playing one musical idea nine different ways - no matter if you are practicing a reading exercise, rudiments or a groove. Start with keyhole #1 and follow each number to unlock the magic of control. Stay relax and be aware of what you see, hear and feel. This will also help you be a more confident player and musician.
1
Start by practicing a musical exercise with a metronome set at 90 BPM. Play using medium dynamics, with your sticks 6" off the drumhead.
2
Now play at 90 BPM using soft dynamics, with your sticks 3" off the drumhead.
3
Keep metronome set to 90 BPM using loud dynamics, with your sticks 9" off the drumhead.
4
Move the metronome to 60 BPM. Play the same musical idea using medium dynamics, with your sticks 6" off the drumhead.
5
Now play at 60 BPM using soft dynamics, with your sticks 3" off the drumhead.
6
Keep metronome set to 60 BPM using loud dynamics, with your sticks 9" off the drumhead.
7
Move metronome to 120 BPM. Play the same musical idea using medium dynamics, with your sticks 6" off the drumhead.
8
Now play at 120 BPM using soft dynamics, with your sticks 3" off the drumhead.
9
Keep metronome set to 120 BPM using loud dynamics, with your sticks 9" off the drumhead.
Remember to spend several minutes on each keyhole to master your control. When you have worked through the nine combinations above, experiment with other tempos and explore all the possibilities with dynamics. Have fun!