I’ve been concentrating on practising the buzz roll drum rudiment (also called the multiple bounce roll).  It’s one of the rudiments that is an essential part of any drummer’s repertoire and can impress friends and fellow musicians in your band.

Improving the Buzz Roll

I’ve read on forums that buzz roll is one of the rudiments that some drummers have a lot of issues with perfecting the technique for. I’ve posted a video above that has some tips on how to play this rudiment.

I have been examining my own technique for playing this rudiment and seeing how I can improve.  I’ve found that slowing the roll right down and concentrating on getting as many bounces as possible from each stroke has been helpful to me.

I’ve also found that varying the pressure on the stick between the thumb and forefinger, has a profound effect on how the stick bounces.  Apply more more pressure and there are tighter, faster bounces until the stick does not bounce at all.  Try experimenting by varying the pressure on the stick. You will find that you can start to play the buzz roll very fast, but in a controlled way.

Here you will find more information on playing the multiple bounce roll and how you can learn to play other drum rudiments.