Choosing the proper drumstick for the job at hand

My first go to stick for jazz trio are HeadHunters Maple C or the smaller Bop B with rubber grips. Light, subtle, and fast. The best pair have worn out tips for mellow ride cymbals tone.

For louder situations, say in a classic rock band where I need speed and endurance HeadHunters Maple CCC give me that speed with more oomph. Once again, I love the rubber grip.

Occasionally in louder jazz situations the Vic Firth Peter Erskine Big band sticks are just the thing: power and speed.

How do you find yours? Purchase 5 different pairs: a maple 5A, hickory 5A, front weighted, back weighted, and at least one pair that have rubber grips. Try them out in different situations and see what happens. 

1. Size makes a difference.
2. Front and back weighted make a difference. 
3. Wood makes a difference, maple is softer than hickory and gives a mellower sound.
4. Tips make a huge difference. Take your favorite ride cymbal to the store and ask the clerk to play it ride with different sticks. Stand back 20 feet and listen.  

If you'd like some help putting those sticks to some good use, call me, I can help. 
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David