Chad Johnson
I love music and love to teach about music. I love music with a passion.
Read More »
...
- Page Views
- 21,959
- Content
- 151
- Fans
- 1
- Contributor since
- 7/2/2007
Education/Experience
Brooklyn College, degree in music, teaches frequentlyFavorites
None yet.Fans
Displaying Results 1 - 151 (of 151) for Yahoo! Voices
-
How to Play a Disco GrooveThis video shows how to play a disco groove. Remember to kick the pedal on all quarter notes (four on the floor),also remember to keep a strong backbeat. The hi-hat opens on all the +'s, keeping a syncopated feel, but at the same time, the quarter note pusle shouls be implied on the downbeat of the -
How to Play a Linear Drum N' Bass GrooveThis video shows how to play a linear drum n' bass groove. This means that you are playing the hi hat on only the upbeats. Try and keep the patterns that you play with your left hand and right foot a little simpler than if you were playing a non linear drum n' bass groove. -
How to Use the Rock Bell Pattern on the 2 and 4This video shows how to use the rock bell pattern on the 2 and 4. When you play the bell pattern on the 2 and 4, you are accentuating the backbeat. If you really want to accent the backbeat, this pattern is very useful. Experiment with it at different tempos. -
How to Play a Rock Groove While Playing the Songo on the Bell of Your CymbalThis video shows how to play the songo pattern on the bell of your cymbal in a rock groove. Do not attempt this groove unless you have some independence with the rock groove. You can play the hi hat on the downbeat, or on the upbeats to change the feel of the music. -
How to Play an Uptempo Jazz FillThis video shows how to play an uptempo jazz fill. This fill works very well at uptempo's, because it has alot of energy. Remember that you can use either the double stroke roll, or the single stroke roll when playing this fill. Experiment using both. You can also either use the hi hat, or the bass -
How to Use an Open Hi Hat Pattern as a Fill or as Part of a Funk GrooveThis video shows how to use a funky hi hat pattern either as part of a funk groove, or as a fill. Remember to try and create a crisp sound when you are opening your hi hat. Play the bass drum at the same time as you open the hi hat, giving the fill/groove a little more kick. Practice this pattern sl -
How to Play an Upbeat Bell GrooveThis vide oshows hwo to play an upbeat groove on the ride cymbal. In this pattern, the bell will be played on all of the upbeats (the +'s). Experiment with the sound that you get off of the bell. Use either the tip, or the fatter part of your stick. Find the sound that you like best. -
How to Play a Drum N' Bass Open Hi Hat PatternThis video shows how to play an open hi hat pattern as a fill or as part of a groove in a drum n' bass situation. Remember to keep t he sound of the hi hat crisp and clean. Try experimenting with the tempo. This hi hat pattern works with more than a drum n' bass pattern at 160 bpm. It can work at fa -
How to Play a Shuffle Rock GrooveThis video shows how to play a shuffle rock groove. Remember to always keep a quarter note pulse when you are playing a shuffle rock groove. Play the back beat on 2 and 4. The shuffle rock groove is played swung, so you should become comfortable with the triplet feel before playing this pattern. -
How to Use the Hi Hat in a 2 GrooveThis video shows how to use the hi hat in a 2 groove. The hi hat should be played on 2 and 4. Try and keep a snappy feel with both the hi hat, and the ride cymbal. Experiment on your own until you become comfortable with this pattern. -
How to Play a Rock Groove on a CowbellThis video shows how to play a rock groove on the cowbell. Remember to always keep a quarter note pulse when you are playing this groove. Keep a strong back beat, and play with confidence. Watch the video to see some variations of the groove. -
Accenting when Playing a Ballad with BrushesThis video shows how to play accents with brushes in a ballad. Remember to always keep a smooth legato feel when you are playing a ballad. Try accenting different parts of the pattern. Start by accenting all of the upbeats with your' left hand, then all of the downbeats. Experiment on your own. -
How to Create Different Sounds with BrushesThis video shows how to create different sounds with the brushes. You can create different sounds by sliding the brush back and forth on the head of the drum, or by tapping the head of the drum. Watch the video for examples. -
How to Play a 2 Feel in JazzThis video shows how to play a 2 feel in jazz. Remember to keep the ride pattern snappy and uplifting. Try this by playing all of the notes on the ride at the same volume. This will add more air to your playing. Don't play a busy ride pattern in a 2 jazz feel because the 2 feel is meant to leave spa -
How to Use Ghost Notes in a Drum N' Bass GrooveThis video shows how to use ghost notes in a drum n' bass groove. Try experimenting with the placing of the back beat. Try accenting the +'s instead of accenting the downbeats. Watch the video for some examples on how and where to play ghost notes. -
How to Use the Single Stroke Roll as a Fill in a Drum N' Bass SituationThis video shows how to use the single stroke roll as a fill in a drum n' bass groove. Yo u should try practicing this pattern at different parts of the bars. This will add variation to the groove, and will keep your audience interested. -
How to Play a Linear Drum N' Bass GrooveThis video shows how to play a linear drum n' bass groove. You should be playing the hi hat on all of the upbeats (on all of the +'s). Keep the left hand and right foot patterns simple until you become comfortable with playing this groove. -
How to Phrase 16th Notes in a Drum N' Bass PatternThis video shows how to phrase 16th notes in a drum n' bass pattern. You should accent the backbeat of these patterns. The rets of the notes should be played as ghost notes. Ghost notes are encouraged in drum n' bass because they add variation to the groove. They also give the groove a driving pulse -
How to Muffle the Sounds on Your DrumsThis video shows how to muffle the sounds on your drums. You can use your hands, you elbows, or your sticks to muffle the sound of your drums. Watch the video for some examples. -
How to Play the Flam TapThis video shows how to play the flam tap. The flam tap consists of a flam, and a double stroke roll. Remember to always practice starting with both hands when you are playing this pattern, so that your playing doesnt become "one sided". You should be comfortable starting with either hand. -
How to Play the Unison Pattern in Drum N' BassThis video shows how to play the unison pattern in drum n' bass. The unison pattern requires you to play two of you limbs in unison, whether it be you right hand and right foot, or right hand and left hand. Usually in the unison pattern, the right hand plays on the hi hat with one of your other limb -
How to Create Different Sounds with the Stick on Stick MethodThis video shows how to create different sounds with the stick on stick method. There are many different sounds that you can achieve. Try placing the stick no diffeent parts of the drum head. Watch the video for more examples. -
How to Use Accents when Paying with BrushesThis video shows how to use accents when playing with brushes. Become comfortable with accenting all of the quarter notes so that you can play with variation. This will keep your audience interested. -
How to Play Triplets in a Jazz SituationThis video shows how to play triplets in a jazz situation. In this video, I give variations of the triplet pattern. There are endless variations that can be played. The more variations you know, the more comfortable you will become with the triplet. The mroe comfortable you are with the triplet, the -
How to Play a 3 Beat Phrase Fill in a Jazz SituationThis video shows how to play a 3 beat phrase fill in a jazz situation. You can experiment with your fills, as long as they are in patterns on 3/4 time. Remember to always know where you are in the 4/4 time feel when you are playing 3/4 fills. The more you practice this method, the more comfortable y -
How to Play Odd Groupings in JazzThis video shows how to play odd groupings in a jazz situation. You can create groups of 5, or 7, or even 9 when you are playing in jazz. Don't use these patterns too often because they do not leave alot of space for the other musicians. -
How to Achieve Different Sounds on Your Ride CymbalThis video shows how to acieve different sounds on your' ride cymbal. Use the butt end of your stick to get a different sound. You can also play on different parts of the cymbal to get different sounds. PLay closer to the bell of the cymbal o get a brighter sound, and closer to the end of the cymbal -
How to Use 16th Notes in a Jazz GrooveThis video shows how to use 16th notes in a jazz groove. When you are switching to 16th notes in a jazz groove, you are completely changing the feel of the music. When the soloist is playing his melody in 16th notes, you might want to switch to 16th notes as well. Ofcourse, you must switch back to a -
Playing 3 in a 4 Time Situation in JazzThis video shows how to play 3/4 time in a 4/4 time situation in jazz. When you are playing this pattern, remeber to always know where you are. You should be feeling the 3/4 and the 4/4 part of the pattern at the same time. Practice this until you are comfortable with it so that you can play it with -
How to Use Triplets in JazzThis video shows how to use triplets in jazz. Jazz is laced with triplets, therefor you should learn how to play different triplet patterns so that you become more comfortable. The more patterns that you learn, the easier the music will be to play. Watch the video for some triplet pattern examples. -
How to Play a Calypso PatternThis video shows how to play a calypso pattern. The calypso pattern is a very interesting pattern. Listen to artists such as Lord Kitchener, and Mighty Sparrow to really understand how this groove is supposed to sound. In the groove that I played, i used both the open and closed hi hat method. Exper -
How to Use the Cascara in a Rock GrooveThis video shows how to use the cascara in a rock groove. This pattern is quite complicated, and leaves little space for other players. When you have the room to play this pattern, you may use it, but you shouldn't play this pattern all of the time. -
How to Play the Cha Cha Cha Variation on DrumsetThis video shows how to play the cha cha cha variation on the drumset. Remember to always keep a quarter note pulse on the cow bell. This is the basis of the cha cha cha. Think of a cha cha cha ensemble when playing this pattern to really feel the rhythm. Look up artists such as Ben More. -
How to Play a Cha Cha Cha VariationThis video shows how to play a cha cha cha variation on the drum set. Remember that even though you are playing a variation, the quarter pulse on the cowbell should be kept. This is the basis of the cha cha pattern. Think of an actual cha cha cha ensemble when you are playing this pattern. Look up a -
How to Play a Rock Groove with the Backbeat on 2This video shows how to play a rock groove with the backbeat on just the 2. This pattern will completely change the feel and colour of the music that you are playing. This pattern will leave more space for the other people that you are playing with. This pattern could be useful for the bridge of a p -
The Use of No Backbeat in a Rock GrooveThis video shows how to play a rock groove without the use of a back beat. This pattern requires quite a bit of indipendence. Try and keep the groove simple, and not too busy, so that you leave room for the other people that you are playing with. Also remember to imply the backbeat on 2 and 4 even t -
How Tp Play an Advanced Rock RhythmThis video shows how to play an advanced rock pattern. Remember to always imply the quarter note pulse when you are playing this pattern. You should be an advanced player before attempting this pattern. -
How to Play a 32nd Stroke Roll in a Rock GrooveThis video shows how to play a 32nd stroke roll in a rock pattern. Experiment placing the 32nd note pattern on different parts of the groove. The more comfortable you are with both the 32nd note pattern, and the rock groove, the more comfortable this excercise will be to you. -
How to Play the Mozambique Pattern Imitating the Timbale PlayerThis video shows how to imitate the timbale player in a mozambique groove. Remember to use two tones on the snare drum (which should be turned off). You should play both open, and muted tones. PLay this pattern until you are comfortable with it so that you can play it without even thinking about wha -
How to Split Up Triplets Between the Hi Hat and the Snare in a Jazz SituationThis video shows how to split triplets between the snare and the hi hat in a jazz situation. This pattern requires indipendence to play. Remember to always keep a quarter note pulse when you are playing this pattern. This can be done by using a metronome with the pattern so that it comes out smoothl -
The Use of a Drum RingThis video shows what the drum ring does to the sound of your drums. The drum ring generally muffls the sound of your drum. Depending on the playing situation, you may or may not want to use a drum ring. If you are playing in a small club, and your snare resonates alot when you play it, you may want -
How to Play the Shuffle with BrushesThis video shows how to play the shuffle with brushes. Remember to always keep a quarter note pulse with your left hand when you are playing this pattern. The shuffle pattern requires you to play all of the skip notes in the groove, this creating a shuffle pattern. Ofcourse, this pattern is played s -
How to Play the Shuffle Groove with SticksThis video shows how to play the shuffle with sticks. You should be playing all the quarter notes, and skip notes with your right hand on the ride cymbal. The left hand should be playing the backbeat on 2 and 4. Listen to B.B King's material to know exactly how this pattern is supposed to souund. t -
How to Play the Zoro Brush PatternThis video shows how to play the zoro brush pattern. This pattern is a bit unusual, and should be played to create a more legato feel. The quarter pulse in kept in sweeps as opposed to being kept in taps. Watch the example to know what I mean. -
How to Use the Crush Roll in a GrooveThis video shows how to use the crush roll in a groove. This crush roll is not often used. This pattern applies quite alot of pressure on your wrists, and t herefor could damage them over time. So be wise and don't use this pattern all of the time. The crush roll gives a dry choked sound that may be -
How to Play a Half Time Rock FeelThis video shows how to play a half time rock feel. This mans the backbeat of the groove is played on the 3, giving it a half time feel. When you are reading a chart in half time, watch out because the time is going by twice as fast. Remember to always play or imply a strong, confident back beat. -
How to Play a Hip Hop GrooveThis video shows how to play a hip hop groove. Remember that the hip hop groove is swung, and should always be kept swung. Before you are able to play the hip hop pattern, you should be able to play a swing pattern. The term "swing' means that the pattern is based on a triplet feel. Listen to Robert -
How to Use the Paradiddle in a Rock GrooveThis video shows how to use the paradiddle in a rock groove. Steve Gadd often uses this in his playing, so check out some of his stuff. Steve Gadd is known as the master for using the paradiddle, and paradiddle permutations in his playing. Remember to play paradiddle part of the pattern (except for -
How to Play the Bembe Pattern with a BackbeatThis video shows how to play the bembe pattern with a backbeat. Remember to keep the bembe pattern steady. Practice with a metronome to achieve this. The back beat should be played strong and confident. This pattern will impress your audience because chances are they are unused to hearing a backbeat -
How to Play the Samba PatternThis video shows how to play the samba pattern. Remember that the samba feel is different. It doesn't have a "straight" feel. The pulse in the samba stays the same, but some of the 16th notes are displaced. Listen to brazilian artists to find out what this means. -
How to Play the Gnawa PatternThis video shows how to play the gnawa pattern on the drum set. The Gnawa is originally an african groove. Notice that in the example, even though I am not playing in 4, I am keeping a quarter note pulse. Experiment with your right foot. Try playing it in different parts of the pattern to create ind -
How to Play an Advanced Raggae PatternThis video shows how to play an advanced raggae pattern. This pattern requires alot of indipendence to play, so you should be an advanced player before trying to play it. This pattern is based on the triplet pattern. You are playing every second triplet, while still playing the backbeat with you rig -
How to Play a Waltz with BrushesThis video shows how to play a waltz with brushes. Remember to keep a quarter note pulse when you are playing this pattern. Remember ofcourse, that the waltz is in 3/4 time, which is a completely different feel from 4/4 time. -
How to Imitate the Timbale Pattern in a Cascara SituationThis video shows how to imitate the timbale pattern in a cascara situation. When you are playing this pattern, think of a timbale player actually playing the pattern so that you can catch the real feel of it. You should listen to bands such as Los Van Van, and artists such as Ben More to really hear -
How to Play with a Different Hi Hat Texture in a Jazz GrooveThis video shows how to play a different hi hat texture in a jazz groove. Remember to keep the hi hat sounding clean, and to keep a quarter note pulse at all times. -
How to Play the GuaguancoThis video shows how to play the guaguanco. Guaguanco is a very popular type of latin music. I played the guaguanco over the cascara pattern. Practice this pattern until it comes out smoothly, so that you can play it well without thinking abotu it. -
How to Imitate the Congo Player when Playing in a Cascara SituationThis video shows how to imitate the conga player when playing in a cascara pattern. When you are playing this pattern, think of the conga player to really achieve the feel of a cascara situation. Think of artists such as Los Van Van, and Ben More. If you haven't heard of these artists, you should ch -
How to Play a Triplet Pattern in JazzThis video shows how to play a triplet pattern in a jazz situation. This pattern should be practiced until you are comfortable with it. Try practicing variations too. When you are more comfortable with numerous patterns, you will be able to play patterns without even thinking about it. -
How to Use the Buzz Roll in a Rock GrooveThis video shows how to play a buzz roll in a rock groove. Try experimenting with the pressure of the stick on the head of the drum to achieve different sounds. Try and be able to play several different sounds so that your playing is not "one sided". -
How to Use the Brush and Stick to Create a PatternThis video shows how to use the brush and stick to create a pattern. The stick should be playing on the rim of the snare. Experiment with the sound that you are getting off of the rim. Try using the butt end of the stick to get a fatter sound. Find the "hot spot" on the rim to create a tasty sound. -
How to Use Rim Shots in a Rock GrooveThis video shows how to use rim shots in a rock groove. In this genre, the rim shots are preferably used on the back beat to give a fatter, and louder sound. Don't over use the rim shot because then it will become boring and repetitive for your listener. -
How to Play a Double Time Feel with BrushesThis video shows how to play a double time feel with brushes. Remember to keep a steady pulse on the snare drum, don't just move the brush in a circular motion. If you do this, the people you are playing with wil be frustrated trying to find the pulse themselves. -
How to Play the Flamecue VariationThis video shows how to play the flamecue variation. Remember that the more patterns you practice, the more comfortable you will be with your overall playing. Try to remain relaxed when you are playing these patterns. Start slowly and build up the tempo when you become comfortable. -
How to Play the Flam Tap VariationThis video shows how to play the flam tap variation. Try and really make a volume difference between the notes that are accented, and the notes that are not accented. This will add dynamics to your overall playing. -
How to Go from a Swing Funk Groove to a Straight FillThis video shows how to go from a swing funk groove to a straight fill. Try not to use this transition too often, because if you are playing a swung groove, you should keep most of the fills swung as well. This fill is used just to change the feel of the music, but at the same time it will take quit -
How to Produce Different Cymbal SoundsThis video shows how to produce different sounds out of your cymbal when playing in a groove. Experiment yourself, and use this video to give you some new ideas on how to produce new sounds. -
When to Use the Crash Sound Playing JazzThis video shows when to use the crash sound in a jazz situation. Experiment with how often you produce this sound. You can crash on consecutive +'s, or you can crash on the odd +. Try not to crash too often on the downbeat -
How to Get Different Sounds Using Different GripsThis video shows how to achieve different sounds using different grips. Generally, the more you choke up on the stick, the thinner or lighter your sound will be. Use your full arm if you want to get a fuller sound. -
How to Play the Universal Jazz LickThis video shows how to play a universal jazz lick. Remember to always imply the quarter note pulse when playing this lick. The more patterns you know, the better your playing becomes. -
How to Flam the Double Stroke RollThis video shows how to flam the double stroke roll. Remember to play the flam at a much softer volume than the other strokes. You can achieve a soft sound by flamming with your hand close to the head of the drum. -
How to Play the Double Stroke Roll in 9This video shows how to play the double stroke roll in a 9/8 time signature. When you play the double stroke roll, use your fingers to push the stick back to the head of the drum. Practice this at a comfortable tempo, then work up the tempo over time. -
How to Play the Single Stroke Roll in 5This video shows how to play the single stroek roll in a 5/8 time signature. Notice that if you play a straight single stroke roll, your starting hand will rotate at the beginning of each bar. -
How to Play the Multiple Stroke MethodThis video shows how to play the multiple stroke method. Remember to keep your hand totally relaxed when playing this excercise. This excercise will determine where and how you should grip your stick. -
How to Play the Double Stroke Roll in 7This video shows how to play the double stroke roll in a 7/8 time signature. Remember that when you play the double stroke roll, use your fingers to push the stick back to the head of the drum at the peak of the rebound. -
How to Play a Single Stroke Roll in 9This video shows how to play the single stroke roll in a 9/8 time signature. Notice that when you play a straight single stroke roll in this pattern, the starting hand will rotate at the beginnign of each bar. -
How to Play the Single Stroke Roll in 7This video shows how to play the single stroke roll in 7. Notice that if you play a straight single stroke roll through this 7/8 time signature, your starting hand rotates at the beginning of each bar. -
Different Practice Methods on a PillowThis video shows how to use different methods when practicing on a pillow. You can use the german grip when practicing on a pillow, as well as the french grip. Try practicing both grips so that you become comfortable playing in any situation. -
How to Incorporate the Paradiddle Diddle into an Uptempo Ride PatternThis video shows how to incorporate the paradiddle diddle into the uptempo jazz pattern. You should realize that the paradiddle diddle is a pattern that is played in 3/4 time. Remember to always know where you are both in the 3/4 time signature, as well as in the 4/4 signature. -
How to Incorporate the Double Stroke Roll into an Uptempo SituationThis video shows how to incorporate the double stroke roll into an uptempo jazz pattern. Remember that even though you may not be playing every quarter note, you must imply it. Also remember to play the double stroke roll with your left hand as ghost notes. -
How to Split the Paradiddle Between the Bass Drum and the SnareThis video shows how to play a paradiddle split between the bass drum and the snare. Remember to play the note that is played in the paradiddle as a ghost note, so that it doesnt overpower the backbeat. -
How to Group 16th Notes in 5 Note Patterns in Drum N' BassThis video shows how to group 16th note in 5 note patterns. Remember to always know where you are in the 5 note pattern, as well as in the 4 bar pattern. -
How to Split the Double Stroke Roll Between the Left Hand and Right FootThis video shows how to split the double stroke roll between the left hand and right foot. Remember to practice this at a comfortable speed. Work up the speed over time. Have patience. -
How to Play 16th Notes in Groups of 7 in Drum N' BassThis video shows how play 16th notes in groups of 7 in drum n' bass. Remember to always know where you are in the 7 note pattern, as well as in the 4 bar pattern. Practice at a tempo that you are comfortable with. -
How to Flam the Songle Stroke RollThis video shows how to flam the single stroke roll. Remember that when you flam the single stroke roll, the flam note should be played as a ghost note. Play all of the notes (except for the flam note) at the same volume. -
How Different Cymbals SoundThis video shows how different cymbals sound. Generally, the thinner the cymabal, the thinner the sound of the cymbal. Usually, a thinner cymbal also produced a darker sound. A thicker cymbal produces a brighter sound. -
How to Use the MetronomeThis video shows how to use the metronome. You can use the metronome at various tempos. You can also change the pulse when you use the metronome. You can create a quarter note pulse or an 8th note pulse -
How to Play the Repeated ParadiddleThis video shows how to play the repeated paradiddle. Notice that in this pattern, the triple stroke roll is being used. When playing the triple stroke roll, use your fingers to push the stick back to the head of the drum when it's at the peak of its rebound. Using this method is like getting two st -
How to Go from a Single Stroke Pattern to a Quadruple Stroke RollThis video shows how to go from a single stroke pattern to a quadruple stroke roll. In the quadruple stroke roll part of the pattern, try using your fingers to push the stick back down to the head of the drum. With this method, it's like getting 2 strokes for one. -
How to Go from a Single Stroke Roll to a Paradiddle PatternThis video shows how to go from a single stroke pattern to a paradiddle using 8th notes. Remember to practice starting with both hands so that your playing doesn't become one sided. -
How to Play Using the German GripThis video shows how to play using the german grip. The german grip can achieve a louder volume than the french grip. You can use your full arm when playing the german grip. This grip can be used in heavier styles such as rock and metal. -
How to Play with the French GripThis video shows how to play using the french grip. The french grip is used more often in lighter styles of music rather than heavier styles. The french grip is often used in jazz, rather than in rock. Ofcourse there are exceptions. -
How to Use Your Fingers to Rebound the Stick Off the Head of the DrumThis video shows how to use your fingers to push the stick back to the head of the drum. Remember to always keep both your index and your thumb attacked to the stick. This is called the folcrum point of the grip. -
How to Play the 11 Stroke RollThis video shows how to play the 11 stroke roll. Remember that even though this pattern itself does not accent any downbeats, you should imply an accent on all of the quarter note downbeats. -
How to Play the 9 Stroke RollThis video shows how to play the 9 stroke roll. Remember to keep a quarter note pulse in your head when you are playing this pattern. It is also important to practice this pattern or any other pattern with a metronome. -
How to Play the 7 Stroke RollThis video shows how to play the 7 stroke roll. Remember that the double stroke roll that is played in the 7 stroke roll is played as triplets. Remember to accent the quarter notes like I did in the video. -
How to Play the 5 Stroke RollThis video shows how to play the 5 stroke roll. Remember to accent the quarter note, and to play the rest of the notes almost like ghost notes. This will help your dynamics. The tighter your chops are, the more control you will have over the stick. -
How to Go from 8th Notes to 16th Notes in 6/8 TimeThis video shows how to go from 8th notes to 16th notes smoothly in a 6/8 time signature. Experiment with the 16th notes. You can play them as single stroke rolls, or as double stroke rolls. Play at a comfortable tempo. -
How to Go from 16th Notes to TripletsThis video shows how to go from 16th notes to triplets smoothly. When you go from 16th notes to triplets, it may give the illusion to some people that the tempo is slowing down. Infact, it's not slowing down at all, it's just that in a quarter note, there are more 16th notes than triplets, thus givi -
How to Go from a Straight 8th Note Pattern to a 16th Note PatternThis video shows how to go from a straight 8th note pattern to a 16th note pattern smoothly. Remember that you can play the 16th notes as anything you want. You can play them as double stroke rolls, or as paradiddles. Experiment on your own -
How to Play a 5 Note Triplet Pattern in a Jazz SituationThis video shows how to play a 5 note triplet pattern in a jazz situation. Remember to always know where you are both in the 5 note triplet pattern, as well as in the 4, 8, 16...bar phrase. Practice this pattern at a tempo that you are comfortable with, then you can work up the tempo. -
How to Played the Split Paradiddle Pattern in Phrases of 3This video shows how to play the split paradiddle pattern in phrases of 3. The paradiddle is split between the left hand, and the right foot. The right hand should be playing 8th notes on the hi hat. Choose whether you want to accent the quarter notes, or all of the 8th notes with your right hand. -
How to Comp in JazzThis video shows how to comp in jazz. Notice how both the left hand and the right foot are used in these comping situations. Also, watch for the triplet feel, infact, there are no "straight" notes in the patterns that I play. -
The Importance of the Snare DrumThis video shows the importance of the snare drum in today's music. In rock, it is used frequently to provide a back beat (hitting the snare on the 2 and 4). Ghost notes also add variety to the groove. -
How to Play an Elvin Jones Ride PatternThis video shows how to play an Elvin Jones ride style pattern. Notice that he basically turns the pattern inside out. He accents the skip notes of the jazz ride pattern, pushing the offbeat forward, and therefor pushing the pulse forward, not in tempo, but in drive. -
How to Break a Backbeat, with VariationsThis video shows how to break the back beat of a rock groove. Remember to still imply the back beat on the 2 and 4, even though you might not play it. -
Playing Rudiments on a PillowThis video teaches the importance of playing on a pillow. There is no rebound on a pillow, therefor you have to make the stick rebound by yourself! This will improve your' strength, and improve your' playing. -
How to Play a Flam StrokeThis video shows how to play a flam stroke. Remember to keep a quarter note pulse. The hand accompanying the accented quarter note must stay close to the head of the drum. -
How to Play a Jazz Ride PatternThis video shows how to properly play a jazz rde pattern. Remember to keep a quarter note pulse at all times. This quarter note pulse should be accented compared to the skip beats -
How to Play a Cascara RhythmThis video explains how to play the cascara rhythm. Remember to accent the upbeats of the rhythm to keep a driving pulse. -
How to Play a 3 Stroke RuffThis video explains how to play a 3 stroke ruff. Remember to keep the accompanying hand close to the head of the drum to ensure that the quarter note pulse is accented. -
How to Play the ClaveThis video shows how to play the clave, and how it is played in almost all Latin music. The 3-2, and 2-3 son clave are included in this video. -
How to Play Quaarter Notes on the Hi Hat in an Uptempo PatternThis video shows how to play an uptempo jazz pattern with quarter notes on the hi hat. The quarter notes that are played with your foot on the hi hat add more weight to the groove. Experiment with the sound that you get out of your hi hat as well. -
How to Play the 5 Stroke Pattern in Uptempo SwingThis video shows how to play the 5 stroke roll in an uptempo swing pattern. The 5 note pattern does not give your hand alot of rest, and it takes up alot of space in many situations. This is why you should not use this pattern too often. -
How to Rest in an Uptempo SituationThis video shows how to rest your hand in an uptempo jazz situation. In an uptempo jazz situation, your hand that rides does not get alot of rest. This video shows methods that give your right hand a rest while you are playing, whether it be playing quarter notes on the ride cymbal, or incorporating -
How to Use the Skip Note in a Swing Funk GrooveThis video shows how to use the skip not in a swing funk groove. In this groove, you are swinging 16th notes. Remember to start practicing at a very slow tempo, so that you are comfortable. Work up the speed when you are comfortable. -
How to Go from a Slow Jazz Groove to a Double Time FeelThis video shows how to go from a slow jazz groove to an uptempo pattern smoothly. In this excercise, it is essential that you practice with a metronome. This will help your pulse for when you are playing in a real life situation with other musicians. -
How to Practice on a PillowThis video shows how to practice on a pillow. When you play on a pillow, your wrists and fingers are doing all of the work themsleves. This is because there is no rebound when you play on a pillow. Playing on a pillow will strengthen your fingers and wrists. -
How to Play a Swing Funk Groove with BrushesThis video shows how to play a swing funk groove with brushes. Remember to keep the sound snappy when you are playing with your brushes. Also remember to always keep a steady pulse when you are playing. -
How to Play a Cha Cha ChaThis video shows how to play the cha cha cha rhythm. This rhythm should be played at the tempo of about 120 bpm, because some people are very picky. -
How to Play a Single Stroke RollThe single stroke roll is one of the building blocks of drumming. Notice how it is played with different notations. Notice how i am using a metronome, and how my timing is very solid with the metronome. Remember o always practice with a metronome! -
How to Play the Quadruple Stroke RollThis video shows how to play the quadruple stroke roll. Remember to use your fingers to push the stick back to the head of the drum on the peak of the rebound. Start slow, and work up your tempo. -
How to Play a Triple Stoke RollThis video shows how to play a triple stroke roll. When you are playing the triple stroke roll, you can use your fingers to push the stick back to the head of the drum. Watch the video to see how this is done. -
How to Play the Paradiddle DiddleThis video shows how to play the paradiddle diddle. This pattern in played in 3/4. When you are playign this pattern, make sure that you always imply a quarter note pulse. Also practice at a tempo that you are comfortable with. -
How to Use Accents when Playing the Double ParadiddleThis video shows how to play the double paradiddle with accents. Remember that no matter where you place the accents, the quarter note pulse (in this case the implied accent on the 1 and 4) should be there. -
How to Play a Broken Funk GrooveThis video shows how to play a broken funk groove. This groove was played often by James Brown's drummers. Remember to always imply the downbeat, even when the pattern gets a little bit complicated. Count out loud when you are playing. Practice slowly, then build up the speed. -
How to Use the Double Stroke Roll in a Drum N' Bass GrooveThis video shows how to use a double stroke roll in a drum n' bass groove. The pattern can be split up between the hi hat and the snare drum. Try practicing this pattern on different parts of the bar, so that you become comfortable with the pattern. After a while of practicing you will be able to pl -
How to Use the Single Stroke Roll in a Drum N' Bass GrooveThis video shows how to use the single stroke roll in a drum n' bass groove. You can split up the pattern between the hi hat and the snare. Try accenting the notes on the snare, and then try playing them as ghost notes. Experiment to find the sound that you like. -
How to Play Brush Variations in JazzThis video shows how to play brush variations in jazz. You can accent the +'s of the pattern. Become comfortable accenting all of the +'s so that you can play with variation. This will keep your audience interested. -
How to Use the Buzz Roll in Drum N' BassThis video shows how to use the buzz roll in a drum n' bass situation. You can place the buzz roll anywhere you want. Try experimenting where you place the buzz roll. Become comfortable placing it anywhere so that you can play many different variations without even thinking about it. -
How to Split Triplets Between the Snare and the Bass Drum in a Jazz SituationThis video shows how to split triplets between the snare and the bass drum in a jazz situation. This pattern requires indipendence to play. Remember to always keep a quarter note pulse when you are playing this pattern. This can be done by using a metronome with the pattern so that it comes out smoo -
How to Play a Quarter Note Groove with BrushesThis video shows how to play a quarter note groove with brushes. Remember that the 1 and 3 should meet on the left side of the drum, and the 2 and 4 will meet on the right side of the drum. Keep this quarter note pulse at all times when you are playing this brush groove. -
How to Play an Uptempo Swing PatternThis video shows how to play an uptempo swing pattern. Remember that even though you may be playing at a very fast tempo, you should still imply the quarter note pulse. You can do this by accenting the downbeat of the ride pattern. Notice that I play the pattern at a comfortable speed in the video s -
How to Use Triplets in a Rock GrooveThis video shows how to use triplets in a rock groove. This concept is used by John Bonham, and Billy Cobham. John Bonham plays 16th note triplets on his bass drum, while Billy splits the 16th note triplets between his bass drum and his snare. Watch the video to further understand this concept. -
How to Play a Swing Funk GrooveThis video shows how to play a swing funk groove. Remember to imply the triplet feel in order to get a swung groove. Make sure that your' hand that is playing on the hi-hat should be relaxed at all times. -
How to Go from a Straight Rock Groove to a Triplet FeelThis video shows how to go from a straight rock groove to a triplety fill. Practice this pattern often until you bebcome comfortabel with it. The more comfotable you are with this pattern, the better the chances are of you using it in your' playing. -
How to Play a SongoThis video shows how to play a songo groove. The songo snare pattern is complicated, and needs alot of practice in order to groove. Look at the dynamics that i added to the snare part of the pattern. I accented some of the upbeats, which pushes the groove forward. -
How to Play a Slow Rock GrooveThis video shows how to play a slow rock groove using 16th notes. Remember to either imply an 8th or 16th note pulse when playing these grooves. Play at a tempo that you are comfortable with so thatthe pattern can breathe and groove. -
How to Play a Ska GrooveThis video shows how to play a ska groove on the drum set. Ska is similar to raggae in that it is almost the same pattern as the raggae pattern. The difference is that it is played at a faster tempo, and it played straight instead of swung. Look at the variations that i play in the video. -
How to Play a Rock Groove Hi Hat VariationThis video shows how to play a hi-hat variation in a rock groove. Remember to always keep a quarter note, eighth note, or sixteenth note pulse when you are playing these grooves. Listen to what i did in the examples shown. -
How to Play a Mambo PatternThis video shows how to play a mambo pattern on the drums. Keep the hi hat syncopated. Keep the songo foot pattern while playing the mambo bell pattern. Differentiate the two sounds that you get out of the mambo bell. You can do this by playing the edge of the bell to get a fatter sound, and the mid -
How to Play Quarter Notes on the Hi Hat in a Jazz SituationThis video shows how to play the hi-hat on the quarter notes in a jazz pattern. This will add weight to the groove, making it drive harder. You can use this pattern when the people you are playing with are trying to intensify the groove. -
How to Use the Hi Hat as a Thirs VoicingThis video shows how to use thehi hat as a third voicing when you are playing in a jazz situation. This will lift weight off of the groove, because the hi hat is not played on the 2 and 4 in this excercise. Try to keep the hi hat on the +'s, because jazz is more of a syncopated style of music. -
How to Strengthen Your' Hands with a Warmup ExcerciseThis video shows a very good warm up, and hand strengthener. Play this excercise at a comfortable tempo so that there is no tension in your' hands. And ofcourse, play with one hand at a time, so that you can strengthen each hand individually. -
How to Play Ghost Notes in a GrooveThis video shows how to play ghost notes in a groove. Remember when u play the ghost notes, you should just be tickling the head of the drum, to give a very light sound. The backbeat's should be alot stronger and louder than the ghost notes. -
How to Accent the Upbeat in a GrooveThis video shows how to accent the upbeat in a backbeat groove. This will add variation to your' playing, and will change the feel or texture of the music that you are playing. Remember to always kee pa quarter note pulse on the downbeat, even though you are accenting the upbeat. -
How to Play a 16th Note Groove VariationThis video shows how to play a 16th note groove variation. you can play notes on the snare drum with your' left hand to add variation to the groove. In the pattern that i play, the bell is hit on all the +'s of the groove. This pattern is used often by steve Gadd when he plays with hands on the hi -
How to Move Smoothly from 8th Notes to TripletsThis video shows how to move smoothly from 8th notes to triplets in a 2 bar pattern. Practice this often until it comes out smooth. When you are comfortable with it, then you can use it in a playing situation. -
How to Play a 16th Note Groove with 2 HandsThis video shows how to play a 16th note groove with 2 hands. Remember to keep those 16th notes even to add more air to your' playing. You can use your' left hand to play ghost notes as well. -
How to Play a 12 8 GrooveThis video shows how to play a 12 8 groove. Remember that the 12 8 groove can be counted in 4. Infact, the 12 8 groove is the same thing as a groove in 4 counted in triplets. -
This is How to Play a Double Stroke RollThis video shows how to play a double stroke roll. Remember to rebound the first stroke off the head of the drum, then at the peak of the rebound, use your' fingers to pull the stick back to the head of the drum, thus creating a double stroke roll. Watch the video and find out! -
How to Play a Double ParadiddleIn this tutorial, the double paradiddle is taught in detail. The hand pattern is RLRLRR LRLRLL. Remember to always keep your' hands relaxed. Watch how my hands are relaxed at all times.