This is just a basic breakdown for getting started with a young drumline, or just going back to basics to make sure the proper techniques are in place.
Tap-Off
We begin drumline exercises with a tap-off, usually played by the center snare, which sets the tempo for the exercise. The tap-off is usually played as follows: One musician plays two measures of eighth notes(normally on one hand) For the first measure beat 1 and beat 3 are accented, in measure two the accents are played on 1 2 3&4&.
Marking Time
As for marking time…You will mark time starting on your left foot on beat 1 in measure two of the tap-off. There are two ways to do this…
A: The entire foot comes off of the ground flat, and returns flat.
or
B: Just the heel comes off of the ground and then back down.
Sticks Out-Sticks In
Bring the sticks out sharply on beat 3 of the second measure of the tap-off. Bring the sticks back in sharply on beat 2 at the end of playing. If you are looping a part and give four taps in between, just leave your sticks out for that.
To find out more information about Atlantic Star Creative Solutions please visit http://www.atlanticstar.s5.com or send an email to DrumGod278@hotmail.com and ask about percussion books or whatever else you might be interested in. There are also custom music arrangements available for marching band, drumline and winter drumline. There are plenty of cadences and warm ups to choose from as well.
Scott Thomas is a successful Percussion Educator/Arranger and owner of Atlantic Star Creative Solutions. A company that offers, marching Band and Drumline Music, Cadences, Warm Ups, Instruction and Web Design. http://www.atlanticstar.s5.com Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/k-12-education-articles/drumline-getting-started-tapoff-marking-time-sticks-outsticks-in-1281919.html
