Playing grooves using triplets
Posted on Jul 20, 2011 in Creative Concepts
Triplets are groups of 3 notes. They are used in many different forms of drumming, whether constructing drum fills, solos or grooves. In this article we’re going to look at using triplets to construct a groove. Andy Burt gives us an introduction to triplets and how to count, play and apply them in a groove context. The Triplet Feel Sometimes referred to as 6:8 or 12:8 Blues, or even the 6...
Read MoreLong and short dynamics
Posted on Sep 20, 2010 in Creative Concepts
This article is closely related to the previous discussion on drumming as a language (see ‘the secret of reading drum music‘). Let’s build upon the idea of ‘communication’ through music, this time paying particular attention to dynamics. SHOUT! whisper SHOUT! whisper If you were to vocalise the words above in the manner the words describe (i.e. you shout the word...
Read MoreThe secret of reading drum music
Posted on Aug 5, 2010 in Creative Concepts, Guides and Resources
Following on from the previous post about “punctuation” in drumming, this article takes a step back to look at the bigger picture of “how to read drum music”. First a bit of fun: Read the following sentences (read through quickly without paying much attention to detail, and then read again more slowly)… Aoccdrnig to rseearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it deosn’t...
Read MorePunctuation for drummers
Posted on Jul 7, 2010 in Creative Concepts
The Elephant Drums teaching method focuses on learning to play drums within the context of practical musical applictions for drumming. There is not much point in being a player of amazing drumming technique without being a player of fantastic musical ability too. We strive towards both of course, but musicality is the top priority. Drums are best played within the context of other musical...
Read MoreDrumming Techniques Directory
Posted on Jun 23, 2010 in Guides and Resources
RUDIMENTS Sticking patterns that form the basic building blocks or ‘vocabulary’ of drumming. E.g. Paradiddle SYNCOPATION ‘Unexpected’ rhythmic patterns that deviate from a strict succession of regularly spaced strong and weak notes (pulse). MOELLER METHOD A system of hand techniques to help drummers play controlled notes with speed and accuracy whilst staying...
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