Drum Rolls & Drum Strokes

Summary: The snare drum is an essential percussive component in any drum kit or marching band. The sharp snap produced by the reverberating snares stretched across the bottom skin, or head, is what gives the drum its unique sound. The snare drum has been used in military bands in Europe since the 15th and 16th century, and today it can be heard in virtually every genre of western music.

In this series of free video music lessons, expert drummer Alex Kasmirov demonstrates several types of drum rolls. You’ll learn basic drum strokes, up strokes, down strokes and tap strokes, as well as how to play open rolls, buzz rolls and French rolls. He also offers tips on the proper wrist and arm motions to help you perfect your drum rolls.