Open handed drumming

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For other uses, see Open hand.

Open handed playing refers to a method of playing a drumset in which the hands are not crossed to play the hi-hat and snare drum. Instead of playing with crossed arms, drummers who employ this method play with their arms open, hence the name "open handed playing". Some well-known and highly respected drummers have professed this method, including Steve Upton, Simon Phillips, Gerald Heyward, Billy Cobham, Dom Famularo and Carter Beauford.

There are several reasons why someone may prefer the open hand method: some drummers simply prefer the method's open and free feel, as well as the playing options it creates. Playing with crossed arms may feel less comfortable to some drummers. Another reason is that it makes it easier for a left-handed drummer to use a kit set up for a right-handed drummer. Instead of reconfiguring the entire kit (and setting it back when he's done), he simply plays open handed, allowing him to play the the hi-hat with the dominant hand.