open handed - hats' height

[h3r3tic]

Well after some time practising open handed I think that I'm getting better and better and it :) . Still not 100% but trying to get there :P

My question:

People that play open-handed advise you lower your hats at almost the same height of your snare, which I was doing but I felt a little disconfort because I've noticed that when I'm playing on the hats when they're open, they sound weak because I'm hitting only with the tip of the stick...

So I was thinking on putting the hats higher than the snare but not too high as when I was playing crossed.

Who's against and who's not with this concept?

[Karaboo]

I don't think it really matters. Just do whatever is most comfortable for you.

[Wavelength]

I really don't think one should lower the hats -- after all, lowering the hats to the level of the snare drum will inhibit playing the hi-hat with two hands.

[h3r3tic]

I really don't think one should lower the hats -- after all, lowering the hats to the level of the snare drum will inhibit playing the hi-hat with two hands.

Yeah, agree. That's the other thing about lowering your hats...

[Deathmetalconga]

I've played open for 24 years and I've always kept my hihats at the level of my snare - well, they are about an inch above the snare and an inch over it. It actually facilitates playing with two hands, as both sticks are close to the snare. I also keep my ride cymbal centered above the hihats, just a few inches from the hihats and with a steep angle. Thus, my snare, hats and ride are always very close together.

It really depends on what feels most comfortable to you. However, I can say it's more natural to have both of your hands at the same level - that's the whole point of playing open and one of its benefits. Both arms are at the most natural position and level.

[Tutin]

Nah I wouldn't lower it that low. I can play open handed a bit and I just needed the hat lowered a wee bit.

So theres my bit.

[JCM]

I have a similar approach to that of deathmetalconga but I put them up just a tiny incy wincy lil bit higher. It makes it slightly easier to hit 16ths because your right hand does not have to travel far.

[KLittle123]

I agree with death, i've been playing open handed for 8 years and I have my hats at the level of my snare. The first few years of playing with my hats high up made me do this weird motion where I barely used any wrist and it was really stiff had bad technique written all over it. I think suggesting not to lower it is just plain bad advice. either lower it or push the hats back.