How to play a double stroke roll
The double stroke roll is two strokes per hand — RRLL — and it's the gateway to smooth, sustained rolls. The whole trick is learning to let the stick bounce. Here's how to build clean, even doubles from scratch.
A double stroke roll means you play two strokes with each hand, alternating: R R L L R R L L. The challenge isn't the first stroke of each pair — it's making the second stroke match it. The secret is the rebound, not extra effort.
Lock the rhythm first
A roll only sounds good when it's perfectly in time. Our free arcade drills the note values behind it — keep this guide open and jump in whenever.
The sticking
- R R L L R R L L — two strokes per hand, then switch.
- Practice starting with the left (L L R R) too, so both hands lead equally.
The big idea: rebound, not muscle
The first stroke of each pair is a normal stroke. The second stroke uses the bounce: after the first hit, the stick naturally rebounds off the head, and you guide it down again with a light squeeze of the fingers. Don't make a second arm motion — that's what makes doubles sound lumpy. Aim for both strokes in a pair to be the same volume.
- Hold loosely so the stick can bounce freely.
- Let the wrist start it, the fingers finish it.
- Listen for two even notes, not a loud-then-soft "bah-dum."
Reading it: a rhythm exercise
On the page, a double stroke roll is a run of equal notes — usually sixteenth notes — with RRLL stickings written below. Knowing exactly how long each note lasts keeps the pairs evenly spaced. That's why solid rhythm reading is the foundation of a clean roll.
Rhythm Match
Match each rhythm symbol to its name — eighths, sixteenths, and the rests — so your roll stays glued to the beat. No instrument needed.
A step-by-step practice plan
- Start with controlled singles at a slow metronome so your timing is solid.
- Practice "bounce" doubles: drop one hand and let the stick bounce twice on its own — feel the rebound.
- Combine to RRLL slowly, making each pair even before you speed up.
- Count out loud ("1 e & a") so the pairs land exactly on the subdivisions.
- Play open–close–open: slow to fast to slow, never sacrificing evenness for speed.
Common fixes
- Second stroke too quiet? You're choking the bounce — loosen your grip.
- Uneven hands? Practice doubles with one hand at a time and lead with the weaker one.
- Falling apart at speed? Drop the tempo until both strokes are clean, then climb back up.
The real secret: make practice fun
The drummers who get clean, fast hands are the ones who put in the most reps — and people repeat what they enjoy. That's the whole idea behind BANDROOM.GAMES: free, retro-arcade games that quietly drill the rhythm sense behind every roll.
- Rhythm Match — note values and rests, the timing behind the roll.
- Echo — call-and-response that sharpens your timing and ear.
- Clef Match — note reading for when you move to tuned percussion.
- Tuner — a free chromatic tuner for your section's pitched instruments.
Play the arcade
No sign-up, no install. Pick a game and start turning "I should practice" into "one more round."
Frequently asked questions
What is the sticking for a double stroke roll?
Two strokes per hand, alternating: R R L L R R L L. Each hand plays a clean pair before passing to the other hand.
How do I make the second stroke even?
Use the rebound. After the first stroke, let the stick bounce and guide it down for the second with a light squeeze of the fingers, rather than a second arm motion. The goal is for both strokes in a pair to sound identical.
Is the double stroke roll the same as a buzz roll?
No. A double stroke roll plays two distinct, controlled bounces per hand. A buzz (or closed) roll presses the stick so it bounces many times into a sustained "buzz." The double stroke roll is the open, beginner-friendly version to learn first.
Keep learning: Note values & rests · Ear training · all guides · more articles