Different Strokes Part I - A few strokes, but many names

Your job as a drummer is simple: Hit stuff. Usually you'll want/need to hit things in a more-or-less controlled manner. Below are the basic strokes from which all others flow. Note that for each type of stroke, the position of the stick at the end of the stroke is just as important as the start position.

FULL STROKES

1. Free Stroke

This full down-and-up stroke begins at the top of your range and, after striking, returns to the starting point using just the rebound. The grip should remain loose and there is no effort needed to get the stick back up -- the hand simply follows the rebound of the stick. The free stroke delivers excellent speed and power, and should be your goto stroke. Also called down-up stroke, open stroke, open-closed stroke, full stroke, legato stroke, and a few others. (The name ‘free stroke’ acknowledges the tension-free nature of the stroke when done correctly.)

2. Half Stroke

A half stroke is just a free stroke starting at and returning to a lower height.

3. Bounce Stroke

This is a series of lighter free strokes using mainly the wrists and fingers. Sometimes called a dribble stroke as the action resembles dribbling a ball. Bounce strokes are an efficient way to play quick multiple strokes.

CONTROLLED STROKES

1. Down Stroke

This one-way stroke starts at the top and finishes at the bottom. The key is to stop the stick after striking so the tip remains 1 to 2 inches from the drum or cymbal surface. This technique focuses on getting the stick ready for a light stroke following a strong one. Sometimes called a Mercatto stroke

2. Pull-out  (Up Stroke, Pull-up)

This stroke begins with the stick close to the drum or cymbal surface. After 'pulling' a quieter note from the down position, the stick is then lifted to a higher position to facilitate a stronger note or accent. Note that the action is lifting, not pulling (despite the moniker). Note that the tap can also be executed by simply dropping the tip of the stick, which some refer to as a 'free note' as you get an extra note with no additional effort.

Next: Combined Strokes