Open handed drumming

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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 Billy Cobham, Simon Phillips, Lenny White, Steve Upton, Michael Urbano, Kenny Aronoff, Gerald Heyward, Dom Famularo, Claus Hessler, Bobby Jarzombek 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. Usually open handed players have their hihat much lower compared to drummers who cross their arms.

As an example, Wishbone Ash drummer Steve Upton set his kit up for a left handed player with one modification - his ride cymbal was suspended next to his hi-hat as opposed to on the 'floor tom' side of the kit. This enabled him to play open handed for both hi-hat and ride cymbal.

          Caretr Beauford is a prominent exponent of this style of drumming,as seen in most of the DMB records.The important thing is to make sure the left hand takes the lead(for right handed players).This style of drumming opens up a lot of avenues regarding hand mobility around the set.It is particularly beneficial for players who use hi-hat fills and dynamics often.