In my opinion, good technique is only worth practicing if it makes better music.
Set-up Ideas
Set the main instruments up (BD, SD, HH, and rides) so that they are easy to play. Then add the toms.
Experiment with different stool heights until you find where you like to sit.
Posture Ideas
I think of a string that goes through my back and up through my neck that pulls me up gently.
I like playing with my elbows free and not pressed against my body.
I like holding the sticks pretty much always in snare drum position (hands are positioned about where I shake someone's hand) no matter where I am on the kit.
I like using the minimum amount of effort to get what I need to get done.
Sound Ideas
Aim to tune the drums so that they sound good individually and also good as a collection.
Make sure the top heads resonate with the bottom ones.
I tune the drums differently for every gig.
I use different cymbals depending on the gig. Making a trip to the cymbal factory is well worth the effort and money.
|