The Advantages Of Open-Handed Drumming (Ambidexterity Lesson)

Drummers often have a stronger side and a weaker side. It can take a lifetime to develop both sides at an equal level.

Among other things, Simon Phillips is known for his ability to lead with both his left and right hand, and it’s opened up many more musical opportunities in his playing.

“I sounded different. Leading with the left made me play things differently.”

In this quick tip video, Simon talks about why he started strengthening his left hand at the age of 18 and how being an ambidextrous drummer has helped him become the powerhouse he is today.

Why should you learn to lead with your weaker hand?

You’ll build control and confidence – so even if you’re leading with your stronger hand, your weaker hand will sound more consistent with rolls, fills, and ghost notes.

You’ll have many more options for orchestrations (as in, the sounds and patterns you can create).

You’ll have more options for where you can position different pieces of your drum kit.

If you keep the groove on the hi-hats with your left hand, for example, your right hand will be free to move around the toms.

Give it a shot and balance out your playing!

Lesson Index:
0:00 – Intro ("Give Blood")
1:16 -- Why Simon Phillips Learned To Lead With His Left Hand
3:23 -- Billy Cobham Performance
4:32 -- Performance Clip "Solitaire"
5:15 -- Advantages Of Open-Handed Playing
5:38 -- The Hi-Hat Never Stops (Demo)
6:27 -- More Advantages Of Open-Handed Drumming
8:21 -- Disco's Impact On Open-Handed Drumming
9:39 -- The Biggest Hurdle To Open-Handed Drumming
10:46 -- Conclusions

[tlkshowhst]

Simon should have his own podcast about drums. He’s got a soothing voice and cadence, plus wisdom to boot.

[sergiozdrums]

I decided to play open handed 3 years ago!! Simon was one of the drummers that inspired me to make that change

[GoodLifeMedicine]

I love how top level drummers play the simplest beat and it sounds fantastic. It is a central mystery and beauty in music.

[suijuris]

After 41 years of playing x-handed,
I began playing open-handed 4 years ago after seeing Simon play that way.
Who says old dogs can't learn new tricks?
Seriously, it is the best thing I have ever learned, when it comes to drums.

[chrisggoodwin]

I am by no means an extremely accomplished drummer, but I have most of the "basic" beats down well. I used the 30 Day Drummer course to challenge myself to lead with my left hand and foot instead of my natural right side. It's still difficult to play ghost notes and more complex syncopation, but it's a great start to feeling a little more free around the kit

[Imnotthevillian]

Carter Beauford is another legendary open hand drummer.

[oscarmckee]

I started drumming right handed...but play open handed now..and it made me a much better drummer over all..with a lot of practice..i have rides on bothsides..and 2 sets of hats one on each side..keep on drumming..

[hextal]

Simon is a genius, doctor drums. Best sounding drummer ever!

[drewbocop]

Thaaat's me. Left handed but right handed set up. It's always been advantageous for me. Plus I'm good at riding with my right hand too. I'm very weird in that i golf and bat right handed, throw left handed, etc. It's generates a lot of power in golfing and batting too. I used to be insecure about my open handed playing but as I grew older I noticed more and more of the drummers I watched doing the same thing and it gave me confidence.

[Metragnome_Images]

"Give Blood" is one the most energetic and kick arse drum beats ever... Simon Phillips is the best.

[blenderpete]

My favorite drummer of ALL times. He‘s the greatest!

[scottdorfler]

Its amazing how many great drummers were influenced by Billy Cobham. Everyone remembers the first time they saw Billy play the drums. I remember the first time I saw Simon. It was the Who's farewell farewell farewell tour at RFK stadium around 1989-90. I was so far away I'd watch Simon do a fill on the giant screen and hear it 2 seconds later. Life-changing show. I remember him playing lefthanded that night. He was perfect for the Who!

[rosemaryblues]

How inspiring. I came to drumset v late and I found listening to Simon and seeing his approach, so kindly and accessible. I have a great teacher, and seeing Simon's video, pushes me even further to get better and more proficient on this instrument. Thankyou.
Rosemary 🥁

[SteveSam]

Simon’s playing has always been inspiring.

[davidcole]

I am 68 years old and am still learning some of the basics. I find this so very helpful. I've done a lot of crossover stuff on the hi hat and have tried to become more ambidextrous and this video really helps. It more than anything inspires me to free up my right hand and do more.

[Kritikateur]

What a killer drummer Simon Phillips has always been. He is like red wine...the older he gets the better he tastes!

Love him.

C.A.😀

[tae-yunlee]

Virtuoso. So cool to see him still nailing "Give Blood" note for note 35 years later !

[lonniecoleman]

I’ve always been an open handed drummer this gives me reassurance to really work on my craft Thankyou !

[manolocorp]

No wonder why Simon Phillips is such a fantastic drummer. Imagine seeing Billy Cobham when you were a teenager; that's a life-changing experience.

[LordHarvestA]

Holy s**t! As a lefty drummer for 20+ years, I NEVER once thought to move the ride to the left side. It's so freakin obvious now! Thank You Simon! You're a genius and I feel like a dumbass.