The MOELLER Technique on Hihat: How to Create Fast, Autopilot 16ths on the Hihats in One Motion

It’s about time we finally dig into the Moeller Technique here on the channel. Today we’re specifically talking about the “two-stroke” Moeller as applied to playing a smooth, fast, accent-tap pattern on the hihats. I’m going to show you ideal stick position on the hats, how to grip for maximum response, and I’ll break down the “three points” of the Moeller motion as we get our one-handed 16ths up to 80bpm. We’ll also watch slow motion footage to make sure everything is super clear, so hang on for the ride!

One handed hihat 16ths are illusive for some reason, and I think it comes down to a misunderstanding of proper technique and motion. If you know how to grip your sticks for maximum looseness and control, you’re halfway there. And if you understand the motion of the Moeller stroke you’re pretty much the rest of the way there. Stop struggling and start conquering! Today we’re perfecting our stick position and hihat height, as well as our grip and technique. Be sure to catch all of this lesson, because these tips are sure to be invaluable to you in your practicing. Don’t forget to download the guide as well.

Hey I hope today’s discussion helped you out. If you’re new to the channel and you’re digging it, be sure to click the SUBSCRIBE button before you go! NEW VIDEO EVERY FRIDAY.

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[kc-vflp]

After watching Anderson Paak play Come Down I ended up here. I needed to watch this. Great video.

[BallsackShredder]

2024 and still replaying this lesson over and over again. Such a great lesson, thanks Stephen!

[Chernabog]

I need to Practice this technique so I can play the Santeria groove

[fluffydragonslayer]

my drum teacher showed me the whipping motion, but i only go every two weeks. this will really help me shape it up before i go back to him! thanks!

[aaron-ofzu]

Seriously though, this guy deserves more subs and views.

Thanks for all your tips!

[td-kx]

This is absolutely the most in-depth and best lesson anywhere on the Internet regarding the accented double stroke molar 16th note hi hat pattern. Thank you very much!👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[sparklyfiend]

thank you! i can always count on you to break it all the way down to basics. most people skip over those things as if everyone already knows what's going on! 😊

[juliandancingshadow]

That slow motion part, you set it off for your whole video. That was great it helps a lot. Hope do it for all your videos.

[jojay]

I was learning Rosie by John Mayer and couldn't figure out how he was achieving those two notes with seemingly one motion. This was the key. Thanks for that.

[paknotaris]

I agree with my fellow drummers. Very well explained, Stephen. Nicely broken down into its components with great comments crammed in. Thank you!

[kohlemainen]

Very nice! Thank you! I'm starting lessons in my mid-50s and these videos are a welcome addition :)

[pantra]

Thank you so much!
Just the same day I finally get my e-kit's settings tweaked right and I start having fun again and I think "I should really up my hihat"

[jeremiahford]

I had my doubts about this guy and what he was going for, but in the end it all came together and was truly interesting

[jeremyhughes]

This is the best video I have ever seen on this technique. Covers all the aspects including the use of fingers. Well Done. I wish I had found this 5 years ago.

[philhurst]

Thanks for the lesson Stephen, very well explained. Two great tunes to check out featuring fast one-handed 16th's .... Jess Lidyard on Tubeway Army's "Are Friends Electric" at 94 BPM and my favourite .... Jeff Pocaro on Michael McDonald's "I keep forgettin' " at 95 BPM, his mastery of technique on this is just jaw-dropping!!

[dumdedumdee]

Hi Stephen. Hope you are well. Another great lesson! These are the sort of techniques that we drummers need. Very grateful to you sharing your knowledge. Thank you.😊

[ladynim]

Beginner here…this explanation was the best—thank you!

[superwesman]

@9:34 the slow motion really highlights the inconsistency in volume between the two hits BOOM (tck) BOOM (tck)...

[billymakesmusic]

Stephen, thanks for a great lesson. I have been trying to figure out the 3 stroke motion with both hands simultaneously where the left hand is on the snare and right on the floor tom and you get this really nice triplet build used in jazz swing or shuffle grooves. I can do it but not at the faster tempos, say 140 BPM shuffle. A lesson on that would be greatly appreciated. God bless you for sharing and have a blessed Resurrection Sunday in Jesus name!

[philipmcevoy]

Hey Stephen . This is awesome teaching man I'm striving like anything learn Moeller and your demo is making it easier to learn . Thanks for posting dude.