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Previously we've looked at a number of physical and mechanical (ergonomic) factors affecting bass drum technique. We discussed the importance of understanding mechanical principles such as dynamic levels, anticipation, velocity and momentum. We also compared the physical merits of the respective techniques.

Now, we're paying further attention to some key ergonomic principles, with particular reference to heel-up bass drum techniques…

Different strokes

There are many physical variables to consider when using heel-up techniques on the bass drum. This is because of the increased range of motion available, which is not so much of a consideration in heel-down techniques.

Furthermore, when looking across the whole spectrum of musical styles, we find we play many different combinations of notes on the bass drum - for example, single notes, double notes, sequences of singles and doubles to create common phrases, and multiple notes, all of which combine to create musical patterns.

With this in mind, it's important to examine some common heel-up techniques and to highlight some of the ergonomic factors that are involved.

Hop 'til you drop

One useful heel-up technique is commonly referred to as the leg stroke.

This technique is used most effectively for playing single notes, and involves a hopping and dropping motion. From the starting position (see the image above), the heel is lifted from the floor using a hopping action, which releases the beater.

The above image shows a heel-up release to approximately 60 degrees and the two images below show the leg and foot dropping down towards the floor to play the stroke, which finishes where it started – in the resting position shown in the first image.

As discussed previously, please remember that we can release the beater to any dynamic level, and by paying attention to the principles of momentum, speed and timing of release, we can control the desired volume and sound of the stroke.

When using this technique it is important to play the stroke with the ball of the foot as you drop back down, allowing the heel to drop and rest naturally, immediately after the stroke has been played. Also, take care not to lose contact with the footplate during the hopping action – although this contact should be minimal and just enough to allow the release of the beater without losing physical control.

All in all, the leg stroke is a physically efficient technique, as it ensures that the leg can rest in between strokes, which, considering the sheer amount of single notes we play on the bass drum, is an extremely important physical consideration.

Next page: double strokes, common phrases and multiples

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