Why do People Play the Drums with Brushes?
Drum brushes, or 'brooms', are used to lower the volume and create softer music. They are most popular in softer music for obvious reasons, but are also frequently used when playing in small venues where volume is a concern. Drum brushes are also used to create utterly unique sounds that cannot be generated when using a drum stick. These are the reasons that people will play with brushes instead of sticks; to lower the volume, make the sound softer, or to generate certain sounds that are impossible with sticks.
In general, people using brushes hold them the same way that they would hold usual drum sticks; however the weight, balance, and effect are a lot different with brushes. This means that drummers should practice with brushes a bit before using them live in front of an audience. Further, it is important to note that not all brushes are alike, so it is important for the drummer to get accustomed to the specific brushes he intends to use as opposed to just brushes in general.
Brushes are most popularly used on cymbals and snare drums. On cymbals the effect is to significantly reduce the 'crashing' sound, creating a softer sound that is more appropriate for many types of music. Using a brush on the ride or crash cymbals and being sure to sweep the brush across them creates a very nice sound that would be impossible with a stick. The same is true when using the brushes on the snare drum, though you should be sure that the snare head is coated in order to get the desired sound effects. Further, moving the brush around the snare, without actively striking, can generate some wonderful sound effects.
The real trick to coming to appreciate the brushes is experimentation. Consider buying a set and just play with them and see what you come up with. Many of the most famous applications of brushes on drums have come about exactly this way, just through experimentation. If you are looking for something different, the brushes might provide what you are looking for.
