Moeller method

The Moeller method, or moeller technique, is named for drummer Sanford A. Moeller. It is believed that he described the method after observing Civil War drummers in the 1800s. He later taught the system to Jim Chapin in 1938 and 1939. Today, Chapin is still working to popularize this method.

The method combines a variety of techniques with the goal of improving hand speed, power, and control while offering the flexibility to add accented notes at will. The method has been perceived in the drumming community as a "taboo" or "secret method" due to the fact that it is quite difficult to learn. Many drummers are unsure of its benefits, though it has been promoted as requiring significantly less effort and carrying less risk of injury than other methods.

The Moeller stroke has also been incorporated by newer artists such as Noah Fried and Fred Herbst.

Both Jim Chapin and Mike Michalkow have both released instructional DVD's that teach this method/technique. Jacob Kaye,a 3rd generation, unbroken chain in "direct line" of having received Moeller Method instruction directly from Jim Chapin, has also released instructional videos, but on his website and free of charge including drum tabs.

External links

• Quicktime Movie - In depth explanation of Moeller, by Derrick Pope
• YouTube - Dan Britt explains Moeller
• YouTube - Jim Chapin on the Moeller Technique.
• YouTube - Tony Royster demos the Moeller technique
• YouTube - Jacob Kaye demos the Moeller Method.
• YouTube - Moeller Demo - Two notes each Hand* [1] Three Quicktime Movies - "Condensed Moeller Method" demonstrations (first movie with printed exercises) by Jacob Kaye (student of Jim Chapin)
• Everything you ever wanted to know about Sanford A Moeller's Book and were never told