Drum Practice Tip #2
May 12, 2010 by · 3 Comments
Build up your chops with Baba's Warmup!
(Click here for right-handed version)
A great thing to add to your practice routine is a warmup exercise. In Boise we use a popular version of Baba’s Warmup. You can find copies of this routine on the internet or you can download our Graphics version. We’ve included right-hand and left-hand versions in a PDF file. The idea is to play it through once with your strong hand then play it again with your other hand. You can even play it a third time alternating both hands. Play each line 4 times then move on to the next line and keep going until you get to the end. The PDF file is a FREE download and we don’t have a problem with you sharing this file with your drumming buddies. If you practice Baba’s warmup with friends try to make it sound like one drum by listening to others and playing tight. This is a lot of fun and will help build up your chops. Follow up this exercise with the rest of your practice routine everytime and before you know it you’ll be able to play it without a rhythm sheet. If you teach drumming try starting every class with Baba’s Warmup.
If you like this graphics format check out the other FREE samples available on our website. If you want more order a copy of our DRUMMIN’ BUDDIES Hand Charts Book. If you have any trouble try singing the patterns before playing them. If you’re still struggling check out our Animated Rhythms DVD (there’s even a FREE sample video file you can download). If you have any concerns, feedback or questions remember we’d love to hear from you via our contact form.
Drum On!
Failla Drums
About 
I remember playing Baba’s Warm-Up to start every class for years! I use it in my classes.
We play each line 4x and the whole thing through 3x. The first time through we use our strong hand and just welcome each other with this prayer. The second time through, we lead with our other hand and focus on perfect timing. Making it sound like one drum playing. The third time through, we alternate hands with the intention of enunciating the notes. Tones and slaps should be clear and distinct. It is a great exercise for these important concepts: 1. playing. 2. playing together. 3. playing together well. Playing each 4 times will also help you “feel” how long 4 phrases last. later, when it’s time to solo, the feel of how long to play will be more natural, less counting while you’re creating….