How to master single-hand accent control in drumming

While most drummers can play basic patterns with their weak hand, being able to seamlessly alternate between accented and unaccented strokes with just one hand requires some practice. Single-hand accent control can help you with everything from basic rudiments to complex solos. The following exercise is perfect for anyone looking to develop this skill.

Moving Accent Lefts: A simple exercise to develop my weak hand

In this exercise you will be using only your weak hand. You will play continuous notes while the accent moves forward one note each measure - from the first note, to the second, to the third, and finally to the last note of each group.

Note: If your weak hand is your right hand, use right hand strokes instead of lefts.

Mastering this exercise requires precise volume control. Start slow and focus on:

Clear distinction between accented and unaccented notes
Consistent volume on all unaccented notes
Even spacing between strokes
Maintaining relaxed grip despite single-hand intensity

Common mistakes to avoid:

Rushing through unaccented notes
Tensing up the wrist and fingers
Losing control when accent shifts
Sacrificing note clarity for speed

Start at around 40 BPM and increase tempo only when you can maintain clear accents and even spacing. This exercise can be particularly tiring, so take breaks and stay mindful of any tension building up in your hand. Practice it for 7 minutes a day for a month to see what progress it will bring.