There are two ways to hold the sticks; Matched grip (pictured below) and traditional grip.

It is safe to say that matched grip is used by 95% of drummers these days. The traditional grip was developed for marching drummers so they could play side drums... on the side. When the drum kit was introduced early in the 20th century, drummers carried on this technique into Jazz and other styles. It is still used and taught widely today, although on a very small scale compared to matched grip. It is up to you if you want to have a look at traditional grip and practice it to help in your overall skill. Some find it rather comfortable for brushes playing.

Matched Grip

Matched grip simply means that both hands are holding the stick the same way. For the louder, hard hitting styles of today, matched grip is the most common option.

1. The main concern when holding the sticks is to make sure that they bounce. This directly relates to the way you hold the stick.

Starting with the thumb, index and middle fingers, hold the stick one third of the way up from the butt of the stick. This point where the stick pivots from is called the fulcrum. Experiment with the position up & down the stick. You'll find the stick bounces better when the fulcrum is approximately one third from the bottom. Try to ensure when hitting hard and getting excited that your grip doesn't slide down to the bottom of the stick.

2. The rest of your fingers should simply wrap around the stick to help control and bounce the stick. It should be a very natural and comfortable grip.

3. When sitting ready to hit the snare there should be almost a 45 degree angle between your two sticks. Your wrists and forearms should be in natural positions.

4. Do not have the sticks parallel, or in between your knees as is often assumed. Having the sticks parallel will only restrict your movement.

5. Sit up straight.

6. The back of your hands should face upwards.

7. Stay relaxed, don't tense any muscles too much, the stick must be able to move and bounce.

8. Hit the middle of the drum.