Corps-Style Snare Drum Dictionary: A Complete Reference Guide Which Will Improve Any Drummer's Control and Coordination

Wanamaker authored this reference with the specific demands of corps-style snare drumming in mind, making it an authoritative resource rather than a generic rudiment collection. The inclusion of back sticking, tap sticking, and authentic corps effects sets it apart from standard method books that focus only on traditional rudiments. Directors building competitive drum lines or teaching advanced technique will find the scope and depth invaluable.

Working through this book feels like training under a master technician; every exercise builds toward greater control and coordination, never wasting motion on purely theoretical patterns. The progression from core rudiments through specialized corps effects creates a sense of advancement, with each new technique opening fresh possibilities for musicality within a disciplined framework.

Snare drummers serious about mastering corps-level technique and directors building programs that demand precision and stylistic authenticity. High school and college players preparing for competitive marching contexts will find the comprehensive rudiment foundation essential. This guide also serves educators looking for a single reference that bridges traditional percussion pedagogy with contemporary corps drumming standards.

• Isolate the American and Swiss rudiments separately before combining them into the corps-specific techniques; this builds confidence with foundational patterns before introducing the stylistic variations.
• Apply back sticking and tap sticking passages to warm-ups before rehearsal to establish muscle memory without disrupting the flow of your full-line drilling.
• Reference the special corps effects section when teaching dynamics and articulation; these techniques depend entirely on controlled execution, not just speed.
• Use the solos as technical challenges for intermediate to advanced players, assigning one weekly to develop consistency across your line.

Make this your drum line's technical reference manual, assigning sections throughout the season as players advance through your progression. The solos work perfectly as etude material during technique blocks or as solo features within competitive shows when you need showcase moments that highlight individual skill. Use the back sticking and tap sticking sections to differentiate your line's sound from groups relying on conventional stroke patterns.

• American and Swiss rudiment fluency
• Back sticking and tap sticking execution
• Control and coordination across dynamic contrast
• Solo performance stamina and independence
• Corps-specific articulation and sound production
• Reading and interpretation of specialized percussion notation