Ask an Expert: Archive

Q: What are some exercises for sounding less stiff or clumsy in a jazz or fusion setting?
Rickey Fischer

A: Hi Rickey,
Stiffness can have several causes: if your playing is too repetitive, the music will become stiff; work on adding variety to your grooves and fills. If your grip is too tight your sound and movements will be inhibited, this is also referred to as stiffness; loosen your grip, work on getting a more legato sound and greater fluidity around the kit. If your phrasing is mono-dynamic you will sound stiff; work on putting contour into your playing by varying your volume and adding accents.

Good luck,
John Riley