How to play the Rimshot Technique


A Comprehensive Guide

Intro

Today we’re diving deep into one of the most iconic sounds a drummer can produce, the rimshot. You’ve heard it countless times, punctuating the climax of a song or adding flair to a snazzy drum solo.

If you’ve ever felt that electrifying “snap” while listening to a track or at a live gig, that’s the rimshot doing its magic. So, whether you’re an absolute newbie or just brushing up on your drumming knowledge, stick around (pun intended), as we delve into mastering the rimshot technique.

What is a Rimshot on the Drums?

Before we beat around the bush (or should I say drum?), let’s get our definitions straight. A rimshot isn’t just any drum strike. It’s a special stroke where you hit the drumhead and the rim simultaneously.

Done correctly, you get a sharp, penetrating sound that stands out dramatically from regular drum hits. This technique offers not just a distinctive sound but also a world of expressiveness that can elevate your drumming to another level.

How to Play the Rimshot Technique

How to play the Rimshot Technique


Let’s break down the rimshot in simple terms. While it might seem a tad intricate at first glance, playing a rimshot is all about three core aspects: your snare setup, where your stick hits, and how hard you bring it down. Let’s decode each:

Snare Setup:

    • Height: First and foremost, consider the height of your snare. You’d want your snare positioned at about waist level when seated. This isn’t just arbitrary advice; it’s about biomechanics. At waist level, you allow your forearm and wrist to maintain a natural alignment, facilitating precision without unnecessary strain.

       

    • Angle: Beyond height, the tilt of your snare matters. By angling the snare ever so slightly towards you, you create an ideal surface angle for the stick to connect seamlessly with both the drumhead and the rim. This eliminates the need for uncomfortable wrist adjustments mid-performance, ensuring a smooth playing experience.

Stick Position:

    • The magic of the rimshot resides in the simultaneous contact of the stick with two parts of the drum. Focus on directing the stick’s tip to the drumhead’s center – this ensures the most resonant sound from the skin.

    • Concurrently, you’ll want another section of the stick, specifically the portion about 2-4 inches from the end, to collide with the drum’s rim. It might feel a tad tricky initially, but it’s this particular alignment that delivers the unmistakable ‘crack’ of a well-executed rimshot.

Stick Height and Dynamics:

    • The altitude from which your stick begins its descent plays a pivotal role in dictating the rimshot’s volume and intensity. Think of it as the difference between a shout and a whisper. A higher starting point results in a forceful, commanding rimshot, ideal for punctuating critical moments in a song.

    • Conversely, a subdued, gentler descent from a lower height produces a more delicate rimshot, allowing for subtle accents within softer musical passages.

Mastering the rimshot involves a synergy of these principles. While individually they might seem minute, collectively they dictate the quality of sound you produce. 

With attentive practice, focusing on each facet, you’ll not only perfect the rimshot but also enhance your overall drumming.

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The Importance of Rim Shots

Rimshots aren’t just for show, they’re game-changers in the drumming world. Here’s why they matter:

  1. Dynamic Punch: Drumming isn’t one-note. We need highs, lows, and everything in between. Rimshots bring in that “oomph” and break up the usual drum sound. It’s like adding a bold exclamation point in a sentence.

  2. Highlight Moments: Ever wanted a beat to really pop? Rimshots do just that. They draw listeners in and make sure those key moments don’t go unnoticed.

  3. Mixing It Up: Too much of the same gets old, right? Rimshots offer a change in sound, keeping things fresh and interesting.

  4. Fits Everywhere: From rock to jazz, and even those slow jams, rimshots have a home. They’re versatile, making them a must-know for any drummer.

  5. Feel the Beat: Drumming’s all about feeling, and rimshots let you put your emotions front and center. Whether it’s the thrill of a fast track or the soul of a ballad, rimshots help express it.

When to Play Rimshots on the Snare

Improvisation

Alright, now that we’ve learned about how cool rimshots are, let’s get into the nitty-gritty: when should you actually use them? 

Remember, with great power (or in this case, a great sound) comes great responsibility. Here’s a guide to help you figure out when to throw in that snazzy rimshot:

  1. Backbeats in Rock & Funk: This is classic territory for rimshots. If you’re jamming to rock or getting groovy with some funk, using a rimshot on the 2nd and 4th beats can really make the song punch.

  2. Surprise Element: Throwing in a rimshot where it’s least expected, like in a soft ballad or a quiet bridge, can be super effective. It’s like a musical jump-scare, in a good way!

  3. Accentuating Transitions: Moving from verse to chorus or building up to a breakdown? A rimshot can underline that transition, making it more impactful.

  4. Jazz Fills: In jazz, where improvisation is king, sporadic rimshots can add flavor to your fills. It gives them an edge, helping them stand out.
  5. Building Dynamics: In songs that gradually build in intensity, starting with softer snare hits and then transitioning to rimshots can help in amplifying the crescendo.

  6. Expressing Emotion: Music is all about conveying emotions. In moments of heightened emotions or dramatic pauses, a rimshot can intensify the feeling you’re trying to convey.

However, a word of caution: moderation is key. If every other beat is a rimshot, it loses its specialness. 

 

FAQ:

How do you play Rimshots?

Playing a rimshot involves striking the drumhead and the rim of the snare drum simultaneously. Here’s a simple breakdown:

  1. Position the tip of your drumstick to hit the center of the drumhead.
  2. Ensure another part of the stick, closer to your hand (around 2-3 inches from the end), connects with the rim at the same time.
  3. Adjust the dynamics by varying the height of the stick before the strike. The higher the stick, the louder the rimshot.
  4. Practice consistently to get the timing and positioning right. The aim is to produce a crisp, sharp sound with every strike.

What is the easiest style of drumming?

“Easiest” can be subjective, as it often depends on individual preferences and backgrounds. However, many beginners find that basic rock beats or pop rhythms are a good starting point. They typically involve steady, straightforward patterns and are commonly used in many songs, making them recognizable and easier to latch onto.

How to do the Moeller technique?

The Moeller technique is a drumming method that promotes fluidity and power with minimal effort. Here’s a basic rundown:

  1. Setup: Start with a relaxed grip on the drumstick.
  2. Whip & Snap: Use a whipping motion from your elbow, letting the wrist drop in a fluid movement. As the stick comes down, make a controlled snap with your wrist.
  3. Rebound: Allow the stick to naturally rebound. Use this motion for the next stroke. Think of it like harnessing the energy from the previous hit.
  4. Multiple Strokes: By controlling the rebound and using the snap, you can efficiently produce multiple strokes with a single motion.
  5. Practice: Like any technique, the key to mastering the Moeller method lies in consistent, focused practice. Start slow, emphasizing proper motion, and gradually increase speed as you gain comfort.

Summary

Alright, ninjas, we’ve learned about the world of rimshots and touched upon other drumming essentials. Rimshots are more than just a flashy technique, they bring depth and variation to our playing.

But it’s not just about mastering this one technique. Whether it’s the rimshot or the Moeller method, these techniques shape our sound and how we approach the drums.

It’s not just about impressing the crowd but truly serving the music. And remember, timing is everything. Using a technique at the right moment can elevate a song. As we continue our drumming journey, it’s all about growth, experimentation, and dedication. Let’s keep the rhythm alive!

I’m crazy about drums, it’s been my passion since I was 12 years old. I played in numerous bands going through different styles like Rock, Progressive, Pop & Jazz-Rock. After being featured in major music publications (DrumeoGuitar GuitarAudioIssuesMusicThinkTank I started this website to share my knowledge and create a resource for drummers of all levels.

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