26 Drum Rudiments Guide.pdf Music Production Music Technology

Cover The 40 International PAS (Percussive Arts Society) Drum Rudiments are the basis of all drum (735x952)

Table of Contents

1. What is a drum kit?
2. What are drum rudiments?
3. What is a hi-hat cymbal?
4. What is a snare drum?
5. What is a bass drum?

What is a drum kit?

A drum kit, also known as a drum set, is a collection of percussion instruments that are played with drumsticks, brushes, or hands. The typical drum kit includes a bass drum, snare drum, hi-hat cymbals, toms, and a ride cymbal. Some drum kits also include additional percussion instruments like cowbells, tambourines, and chimes.

Drum kits can be customized to suit the preferences of the drummer. For example, a jazz drummer may prefer a smaller kit with fewer drums, while a rock drummer may prefer a larger kit with more drums and cymbals. Drum kits can also be electronic, which use digital sounds instead of physical drums.

What are drum rudiments?

Drum rudiments are basic patterns that are used to develop a drummer's technical skills and musical vocabulary. There are 40 standard drum rudiments that were developed by the Percussive Arts Society, and additional rudiments have been added over time.

Some common rudiments include the single stroke roll, double stroke roll, paradiddle, and flam. Drummers practice rudiments by playing them at different tempos and in different combinations. Mastery of rudiments allows drummers to play more complex patterns and fills.

What is a hi-hat cymbal?

A hi-hat cymbal is a pair of cymbals that are mounted on a stand and played with a foot pedal. The top cymbal is stationary, while the bottom cymbal is attached to the pedal. When the pedal is pressed, the bottom cymbal is raised, allowing the two cymbals to strike together.

The hi-hat is a crucial element of the drum kit, as it provides a steady, rhythmic sound that can be opened and closed to create dynamic variations. The hi-hat can be played with the foot pedal, drumsticks, or brushes.

What is a snare drum?

A snare drum is a drum that has a set of wires or cables called snare wires stretched across the bottom head, which gives the drum its distinctive sound. The snare drum is typically played with drumsticks and is used to provide a sharp, staccato sound that cuts through the rest of the drum kit.

The snare drum is often used to play backbeats, which are the strong, accented beats on the second and fourth counts of a measure. Snare drums can also be tuned to different pitches to create different tones and textures.

What is a bass drum?

A bass drum is a large drum that is played with a foot pedal. The bass drum provides the foundation of the drum kit's rhythm and is typically played on the first and third counts of a measure.

The bass drum can be tuned to different pitches, and some drummers use multiple bass drums to create complex rhythms. In addition to its role in the drum kit, the bass drum is also used in marching bands and orchestral percussion sections.

Conclusion

Drumming is a complex and rewarding musical pursuit that requires technical skill, musicality, and creativity. By understanding the essential drum terms and concepts, drummers can develop their skills and expand their musical vocabulary. Whether playing in a band, recording in a studio, or practicing at home, drummers can use their knowledge of drumming glossary to create compelling rhythms and musical compositions.