To instantly boost your rudimental chops, try shifting the starting accent in a simple single-stroke roll pattern. Begin on the second sixteenth note instead of the first, then repeat, creating syncopation and a fresh rhythmic feel. This small adjustment dramatically alters the perceived complexity of the passage.
Beyond the marching band stand, the side instrument’s lineage extends back to the Swiss mercenary armies of the 15th century. These Landsknecht soldiers used the *tambour*, a rope-tensioned ancestor, to coordinate troop movements on the battlefield. From these military roots, the instrument found a place in orchestral settings, with early scores from composers like Lully employing its distinct sound to depict battle scenes and add dramatic flair. Consider exploring the scores of these composers for inspiration on non-conventional rhythmic patterns.
Modern virtuosos such as Steve Gadd and Vinnie Colaiuta have profoundly impacted contemporary rhythm vocabulary. Gadd’s ghost note control and Colaiuta’s odd-time signature mastery have spawned generations of imitators, yet their originality remains unmatched. Listening to their isolated tracks, or even transcribing short solos, offers direct access to their nuanced approach.
From brush playing in jazz, exemplified by the delicate interplay of sound in Joe Morello’s work with Dave Brubeck, to the blistering speed and precision of metal beaters like Joey Jordison (Slipknot), the percussive implement’s adaptability shines. Experiment with different implements, focusing on how grip pressure and stroke angle affect timbre. You may find your own unique sound!
Rudimental Foundations: The Swiss Influence
Mastering the rudiments is foundational for expressive percussion performance. Prioritize the Swiss rudiments for their historical significance and practical application in various genres. The “Basler Trommelmarsch,” for instance, features intricate flam and drag patterns which build dexterity and precision. Practice these patterns slowly, focusing on consistent hand height and stroke quality. Gradually increase tempo while maintaining clarity.
Paradiddle Innovations: Beyond Basic Execution
The paradiddle family offers extensive possibilities for creative rhythmic phrases. Modify the standard RLRR LRLL pattern by incorporating accents on different notes, or by substituting single strokes with double strokes (diddles). This produces varied sonic textures. Experiment with alternating sticking patterns (e.g., LRLR RLLR) to unlock fresh grooves and fills.
Dynamic Control: Whispers to Roars
Achieving a wide dynamic range significantly elevates rhythmic articulation. Use varied beater heights for different volume levels. For pianissimo passages, employ wrist strokes near the center of the batter head. For fortissimo, utilize full arm strokes closer to the rim. Practice transitioning seamlessly between dynamic levels for nuanced expression. Experiment with brushes for softer textures.
Mastering Rudimentary Percussion
Prioritize consistent practice with a metronome, starting at a slow tempo (60 BPM) and gradually increasing speed as precision improves. Record yourself playing each rudiment to identify inconsistencies in stroke height and timing. Focus on achieving equal note spacing and dynamics within each pattern.
Developing Proper Grip and Stroke
Experiment with both matched and traditional grips to determine which feels most comfortable and facilitates better control. For matched grip, ensure the fulcrum (point of contact between stick and hand) is located between the thumb and index finger. For traditional grip, utilize the wrist to generate power in the left hand and the fingers for finesse. Practice rebound strokes, allowing the stick to naturally bounce back after each hit, minimizing unnecessary muscle tension. Vary stroke heights to explore different dynamic levels.
Rudiments for Advanced Musicianship
Beyond the standard 40, explore hybrid rudiments such as the Flamacue Accent and the Inverted Flam Tap. These combinations challenge coordination and introduce complex rhythmic ideas. Transpose rudiments around the kit, applying them to toms, cymbals, and other percussion elements. Experiment with applying rudimental patterns to grooves and fills, creating innovative rhythmic figures.
Practice the following fundamental patterns:
- Single Stroke Roll: Focus on developing evenness between the hands.
- Double Stroke Roll: Master controlled bounces for clarity.
- Paradiddle: Pay attention to accent placement.
- Flam: Strive for precise placement of the grace note.
- Drag: Develop consistent rhythmic displacement.
For each rudiment, identify accented and unaccented strokes and vary the dynamics to develop greater musical expression. Analyze solos and compositions by notable percussionists to identify applications of rudiments in context.
Exploring Rhythmic Expressions on the Percussion Instrument
For a crisp, articulate ghost note, lighten your grip and aim for the outer edge of the batter head, allowing the beater to bounce freely. Experiment with varied stick heights to modify the volume and timbre.
Marching Percussion: Characterized by its forceful rimshots and tight, controlled rolls. Listen to recordings from “Drum Corps International” (DCI) to grasp the intensity and precision required in this field.
Jazz Expression: Commonly features delicate brushwork, often incorporating syncopated patterns and subtle variations in tone. Explore recordings by Max Roach or Art Blakey to understand the subtleties of the jazz aesthetic.
Rock & Roll Beat Keeping: Usually involves a solid backbeat on counts two and four, with powerful rim clicks on the ‘and’ of beats. Pay attention to the playing of John Bonham to appreciate the power and groove of this approach.
Orchestral Works: This setting demands careful control and a wide dynamic range. Focus on pieces by Ravel or Stravinsky to understand how the instrument can be utilized to create atmosphere and punctuation within a larger arrangement.
Rudimental Application: Practice the “Swiss Army Triplet” for speed and control. This exercise builds independence between the hands and strengthens your ability to execute complex figures. Begin slowly and gradually increase the tempo, focusing on consistency in sound and time.
To achieve a ‘flam accent’, position one beater slightly above the head and strike simultaneously. This creates a characteristic doubling effect, which can add energy to fills and solos.
Tracing the Percussion Instrument’s Evolution
Early skin-covered frame instruments, predating formal percussion kits, appeared across ancient civilizations, like those depicted in Egyptian art around 3000 BCE. These simple constructions provided rhythmic accompaniment in rituals and celebrations.
The medieval tabor, a small, portable percussion instrument, gained prevalence throughout Europe during the Crusades. Its use alongside the pipe created a complete solo performance setup for minstrels and traveling performers.
19th-century marching bands saw the development of deeper-shelled percussion instruments with adjustable tension. This allowed for finer control over pitch and resonance, improving projection in outdoor settings.
The addition of snares (bundles of wire or gut stretched across the resonant head) significantly altered the timbre. This innovation, appearing around the mid-19th century, added a crisp, rattling sound that enhanced rhythmic articulation. Rudimental control developed from military applications.
Early 20th-century vaudeville and jazz spurred further refinement. Drummers experimented with different shell materials (wood, metal), strainer mechanisms (for snare engagement/disengagement), and head compositions (calfskin, then plastic), leading to increased tonal versatility.
Post-WWII advances in materials science gave rise to instruments with enhanced durability and consistency. Fiberglass and acrylic shells offered new sonic possibilities and weather resistance, extending the instrument’s use to different environments.
Contemporary percussion instrument designs incorporate complex tuning systems and customizable components. Players can now precisely tailor the instrument’s sound to fit diverse musical contexts, from orchestral settings to advanced solo performances. Electronic triggers and pads further expand the sonic palette.
Q&A:
I’m a beginner drummer. What’s the most basic technique for getting a good sound from a snare?
For a good start, concentrate on consistent strokes with a relaxed grip. Place the stick’s sweet spot, usually a point a few inches from the tip, onto the drumhead. Avoid tensing up your wrist or arm; a fluid motion will produce a fuller sound. Maintain even pressure across strikes for consistency. Practice rudiments like single strokes at slow tempos, paying close attention to maintaining a similar volume and sound with each hit. This focus will allow you to develop control, which is central to snare mastery.
The article mentions different styles using the snare. Could you expand on how the snare drum is used distinctively in a specific musical genre like jazz or funk?
Absolutely! In jazz, the snare is commonly employed for complex rhythmic interplay. Drummers frequently use brushes, creating subtle textures and sweeping sounds. They might utilize techniques such as rimshots for accents or press rolls for added flair. Funk incorporates the snare drum more percussively. Backbeats are often emphasized, creating a strong groove. Drummers in this genre are known to utilize ghost notes, very quiet and light touches to add interest without overpowering the main beat. The overall feel tends to be dry and tight, often accomplished through dampening.
I’m trying to learn more about the history of the snare drum. What are some of the key developments or inventors that shaped it into the instrument it is now?
Early predecessors of the snare can be traced back centuries to instruments with gut snares stretched across a membrane. As marching bands grew through Europe, drums evolved into larger forms with more complex snare systems. The precise origins are difficult to pinpoint to a single inventor, but advancements in materials such as metal shells and improved snare mechanisms in the 19th and 20th centuries were fundamental. Manufacturers like Ludwig-Musser were important innovators who helped standardize sizes and construction. These improvements permitted a wider range of tonal options and increased the drum’s usefulness in both orchestral and popular music.
Are there any relatively unknown, but amazing snare drummers, past or present, that I should check out for inspiration?
While names like Buddy Rich or Tony Williams are well-known, many extremely talented players fly under the radar. Check out the work of Bernard Purdie, a session legend known for his incredible feel. Stanton Moore from Galactic is another great example; his New Orleans style drumming has a unique syncopation and sophistication. For a more modern player, consider Chris Dave. His incredibly innovative and individual style is a real demonstration of what is achievable with the snare drum. These are all players who exhibit advanced technique and musicianship, who you can study to broaden your playing abilities.