jivadayadasa
Senior Member
Hi guys,I have been playing open for years,how did I start I am naturally left handed and right footed. So when I began I really wasnt aware of crossing. I sought out the best and naturally discovered Billy.and,Simon....So it all looked normal,aged 17.
But over the years I became very frustrated with not being able go right with ease. It,s as clauss Hessler states, drums are an ambidextrous instrument.
I saw Billy and Simon here in Perth,West Australia,and it was apparent from the start this was the key. So too you guys who are CROSS DOMINANT you have to bring your right hand up to your left,and vice versa. There are advantages to playing open.At my age now I am totally blown away/and surprised that it is being viewed as the "new" way too go.
Billy started doing it in 1954.......Get clauss Hesslers book its surprised me too.
Clauss Hessler is a wonderful drummer and I really like his book. It will definitely keep you busy and help you find ways to get creative with open-handed playing. I have corresponded with him quite a bit during my 4 month "open-handed journey" and will say that he is very generous with his time and is extremely supportive of aspiring drummers like myself.
I am now playing with a band and attempting to play open-handed 90+% of the time. It has been and continues to be a major challenge - but that's what I'm here for. It has consequently been one of the most gratifying experiences in my somewhat "checkered" career as a musician.