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 relaxed
BACKBEAT
Accenting or stressing the even beats within a bar (beats 2 and 4 in the case of 4/4 time signature).
TIME SIGNATURE
Indicates the number of beats in one bar and the note value of those beats.
METRONOME
A device (sometimes also known as a click track) that keeps time at a set rate of beats per minute.
TEMPO
How fast or slow the music is played
DYNAMICS
How loud or quiet a section of music or individual notes are played.
NOTATION
Music in its written form. Drum notation is made up of notes on the stave positioned to represent the various drums and cymbals and when they should be played. Silence is represented by rests.