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It’s always a treat being able to ask the different artists who come through Drumeo what they like to do to warm up on the drums. Anika Nilles has two go-to exercises she likes to use to get the hands moving before jumping into a recording session or live gig!
The first exercise is made up of 16th and 32nd notes. Here are the steps broken down into quarter notes:
1) Four strokes with your right hand
2) Four strokes with your left hand
3) Single stroke roll
4) Single paradiddle
Notice how the exercise ends with a paradiddle. This means that when you go to repeat the phrase, you’ll switch which hand leads! This is a great feature to have in any warm-up routine as it allows you to give both hands equal attention.
EXTRA CHALLENGE: Try adding in the hi hat by playing quarter notes with your foot!
The second routine Anika uses is similar to the first, however now we’ll be playing 16th and 32nd note triplets! Again, here are the steps broken down into quarter notes:
1) Six strokes with your right hand
2) Six strokes with your left hand
3) Single stroke roll
4) Double Paradiddle
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Drumeo Team - We're professional, award-winning drummers and drum teachers, coaches, recording artists, and content specialists who are passionate about drums and helping drummers around the world. This post was written and/or edited by Sam Landa, Brandon Toews, Jared Falk, Dave Atkinson, or another pro on our team (which has a combined 1000+ years of drumming experience). Are you looking for inspiration, education, and support to take your playing to the next level? Join the Drumeo community today!
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