Traditional Grip vs. Matched Grip: Which Should You Learn First?
When it comes to holding the sticks, drummers often find themselves at a crossroads: traditional grip or matched grip? Both have deep roots in drumming history and technique, but the choice can significantly influence your playing style, comfort, and even your long-term development as a drummer. Trust me I know, I've been there.
In this guide, I'll break down the pros and cons of both grips, explore their uses across genres, and help you decide which grip is best to learn first—especially if you're serious about developing great hands and maximizing your technique.
What Is Traditional Grip?
Traditional grip originated from military drumming, where drummers carried their drums on a sling. Because of the angle at which the drum sat, players needed to adjust their left-hand grip to strike the drum comfortably—thus, traditional grip was born. There is no question its a bit unorthodox!
The grip involves holding the left stick between the thumb and the first two fingers while it rests in the pocket between the thumb and index finger. The right hand typically uses a standard overhand grip.
Why Drummers Use Traditional Grip
- Jazz Aesthetic: Traditional grip is synonymous with jazz drumming. Players like Buddy Rich, Elvin Jones, and Steve Gadd helped popularize it.
- Articulation: Some drummers feel that traditional grip offers more nuance and subtlety, particularly in brushwork and light playing.
- Style: Let’s be real—it looks cool. There’s an elegance to traditional grip that catches the eye.
What Is Matched Grip?
Matched grip is the more modern approach. It simply means that both hands hold the sticks the same way—palms down, thumbs on the side, and the stick resting across the first joint of the index finger.
This is the grip taught to most beginners and is standard across rock, pop, metal, and most marching applications.
Why Drummers Use Matched Grip
- Power and Symmetry: Because both hands mirror each other, matched grip tends to be more ergonomic and powerful.
- Versatility: Matched grip works in almost every style and is ideal for drum set, marching percussion, and orchestral playing.
- Learning Curve: It's easier to learn initially and often helps with faster development of speed and control.
Which Grip Is Easier to Learn?
Matched grip has the edge in ease of learning. It’s more intuitive, requires less finger dexterity in the beginning, and is symmetrical, which makes it easier for beginners to understand dynamics, rebound, and technique.
That said, traditional grip isn’t inherently harder—it’s just different. It requires a little more finesse and finger control, especially in the left hand. But for those interested in jazz, military drumming, or just exploring the full vocabulary of drumming, it’s a must-learn.
So...Which Grip Should You Learn First?
In my honest opinion...
- If you're aiming to play rock, metal, pop, or funk, start with matched grip.
- If you're drawn to jazz, fusion, or want the full spectrum of technique, then traditional grip should be in your toolkit.
- If you're serious about becoming a well-rounded drummer, learn both—but start with the one aligned with your musical goals.
Why Traditional Grip Is Still Relevant
Despite being centuries old, traditional grip is far from outdated. Modern drummers are blending genres more than ever. Players like Vinnie Colaiuta, Dave Weckl, and Virgil Donati use traditional grip in progressive and cutting-edge ways.
It’s not about choosing one and ditching the other—it’s about knowing what to use when. Traditional grip sharpens finesse. Matched grip unleashes raw power. Together, they complete your toolkit.
Master the Traditional Grip—Step-by-Step
If you’re ready to learn traditional grip the right way, I’ve created a full course that walks you through everything: setup, motion, common mistakes, and advanced exercises.
It’s structured, easy to follow, and designed to actually improve your playing—not just give you random drills.
Final Thoughts
Your grip is your connection to the drums. Don’t rush the decision—but don’t overthink it either. Try both. Experiment. Watch videos. Most importantly: stick with it.
Matched grip might get you started. Traditional grip might give you the edge. Both deserve a place in your drumming journey.
Ready to dig into the details?
and get playing with control, confidence, and killer technique.
See you behind the kit,
Freddy Charles