Let me throw out a history question and observation with hi-hats and clutches.
I have gotten 2 questions in the last few weeks on this topic.
when I learned the set from a big band drummer he discussed the hi hat in detail and went over the hats and how to set them up on the hi hat stand correctly. (In his mind) I followed those teachings through my playing years and as a teacher always had the same discussion with new students.
1. Never lock the top cymbal in or tighten it. Adjust it so the top cymbal moves freely. Normally I put the cymbal on the clutch tighten it to a certain point and make sure it moves freely, just like a crash cymbal. Snug, but not choked.
2. Adjust the bottom cymbal tilter screw so that that bottom cymbal is slightly tilted allowing the cymbals to be closer on one side and more open on the other.
3. Point the more open part of the hat toward the band/audience so that the projection of the "Chick" travels out to them.
Basically I think most drummers tighten the heck out of the top cymbal and barely tilt the bottom cymbal. Is this just the way it is now?
If you study video on Youtube you can see many of the great drummers have a nice movement with the hats.
The Open-Close Sound, Crushed Hats and Swing Style Cymbal work all sound better (In my opinion) with "Free" cymbals.
This clutch in the discussion clearly "Locks" the top cymbal in place.
What is normal for you players out there and can you offer any more information on the topic. I want to do a short video on the set-up I learned, but would also like to make sure the "Younger" crowd is covered.
David
