Single & Double Strokes
Two hands, two patterns — nearly every rudiment you'll ever learn is built from these.
Single strokes: one hit, alternating hands
A single stroke is exactly one hit per hand, strictly alternating: right, left, right, left. It sounds simple, and it is — but keeping both hands perfectly even in timing and volume at speed is a lifelong skill. Single strokes are the pattern behind most fills and the classic "single stroke roll."
Double strokes: two hits per hand
A double stroke plays two hits from the same hand before switching: right-right, left-left. At speed, the second hit of each pair is usually played as a controlled rebound of the stick rather than a fresh full stroke — that bounce control is what makes fast double strokes (and the "double stroke roll") possible.
Common questions
What is a single stroke?
One hit per hand, alternating strictly right-left-right-left — the most fundamental sticking pattern.
What is a double stroke?
Two consecutive hits from the same hand before switching, played as a controlled bounce at speed.
Why are these called the building blocks of rudiments?
Nearly every other rudiment combines singles and doubles in different orders, so mastering these first helps everything else.
How should I practice single and double strokes?
Start slow with a metronome, keep both hands even, and raise tempo only once it feels relaxed and controlled.
Drill rudiments with instant feedback
Melody Monkey's app tracks your tempo and consistency as you build sticking control — free to try.
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