Matched Grip
Remember - Thumb on top, Fingers underneath!
As you can see from the photo, the 'butt' of the stick should be in-line
with the bottom of your hand with none or very little of the stick protruding.
Your thumb should be on top of the stick, with your index finger directly under your thumb - this is called your fulcrum and this will give you control of the stick as your strike the drums. Remember that your thumb and index finger are the only fingers holding the stick, the other three fingers are there to guide the stick.
Your right hand should be a mirror image of your left hand, again with your thumb on top, fingers underneath.
You should be making a straight line from the tip of the stick to the tip of your elbow. The sticks should now be forming a 40' angle on the drum head.
Try to ensure that your hands do not come together as you play and that you stay relaxed - without tensing.