What is a paradiddle?
A paradiddle is a drumming rudiment that combines single strokes with precisely placed double strokes. In drum terminology, “para” means “single stroke” and “diddle” means “double stroke,” and thus the term describes a sticking pattern where a single stroke is followed by a double stroke.
Why is a paradiddle important?
The paradiddle is a useful rudiment for development of technique, coordination and stick control. For a lot of drummers that is where it will stay, on the practice pad. They don’t make the effort to work on this rudiment on the drum kit.
What are paradiddle exercises for?
The study of Paradiddles is, among other basic exercises for the drums, especially important to learn how to alternate single and double strokes with accented strokes, with both hands. The symmetrical structure of every Paradiddle helps a better balanced hands and wrists development.
How do you do Paradiddles on drums?
You start by playing two alternating singles, and then a double. That’s the first half of the rudiment. Then, do the exact same pattern leading with the opposite hand. When you put it all together – you have a single paradiddle!
How long does it take to master the paradiddle?
Focus on playing relaxed and accurately. Eventually you will find it natural to play the double portion of the paradiddle as you would other double strokes. For reference, I believe you would need at least 3-5 years playing experience with a good teacher to do well at the Level 2 exam.
How do you count Paradiddles?
Thus, you can count the single paradiddle as such: R (par) L (a) R (did) R (dle) L (par) R (r) L (did) L (dle). The single paradiddle is one of the finest drum rudiments for coming up with cool sounding drum beats and drum fills.
Who invented paradiddles?
This suggests that paradiddles were not an original rudiment – as in invented by the Swiss or developed early in the 16th century – but rather was invented by the English.