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eBooks

Fast Groove Builder

by Karl Price
 Contents

2 Introduction

3 Musical Symbols Builder

4 Reader Builder 1 - Quarter, Eighth, and 2 Beat Notes

5 Reader Builder 2 - Quarter and Eighth Note Mix

6 Rudiments Builder - Single Stroke, Double Stroke and Single Paradiddle

7 Groove Builder 1 - Quarter Notes on the hi-hat

8 Groove Builder 2 - Eighth Notes on the hi-hat

9 Groove Builder 3 - Upbeat Eighth Notes on the hi-hat

10 Groove Builder 4 - Kick and Snare Mix with Quarter Notes on the hi-hat

11 Groove Builder 5 - Kick and Snare Mix with Eighth Notes on the hi-hat

12 Groove Builder 6 - Kick and Snare Mix with Upbeat Eighth Notes on the hi-hat

13 Fill-in Builder 1 - Single Strokes

14 Fill-in Builder 2 - Double Strokes

15 Fill-in Builder 3 - Single Paradiddle

16 Fill-in Builder 4 - Stick and Kick Mix

17 Fill-in Builder 5 - Stick and Kick Mix 2

18 Melodic Builder 1 - Kit Mix

19 Melodic Builder 2 - Kit Mix

20 Closing Remarks
Fast Groove Builder Drum Learn

Introduction
Welcome to the Fast Groove Builder!

The Fast Groove Builder is the first in a series of five drum eBooks. As the title implies, the books have
been designed to present essential drum and groove building concepts in an efficient and systematic way.

First, we will begin by looking at all the musical symbols that we will use in the Fast Groove Builder.
Second, we will look at some simple note reading exercises to get familiar with rhythm and tempo.
Thirdly, we will learn the starter rudiments: single strokes, double strokes, and single paradiddle.
Following on from this we will begin work on the "Grooves" section. Simple quarter and eighth note
grooves to start, with more complex patterns to follow.
Next up we will look at some Fill-ins using the starter rudiments we learned in chapter two. Also in this
section, we will try out some combination fill-ins with the kick and snare.
In the final chapter of the eBook, we will put all the rhythmic building concepts together and explore
some melodic ideas using the different sounds of the drum kit.

The Reader Builder

Although learning to read music is not essential when learning a musical instrument, it can be a valuable
asset in many ways. For instance, you won't be able to take full advantage of learning the rhythms in this
eBook if you don't learn how to read the notation. Secondly, many professional musical settings require
musicians to read music; if you can't, then you won't get the gig! Also, it can also be useful as a second
memory: How are we going to remember the rhythms, fills and song structures of 20-30 compositions?
If you can read and write music notation, you don't have to sweat and struggle to remember them!

The Rudiments Builder

Rudiments (elementary strokes) are essential in learning to play the drums. They are the basis of all the
patterns we as drummers, play. The three rudiments that are presented in this chapter are what I would
refer to as "core" rudiments. Every other rudiment or sticking pattern is a combination of them.

The Groove Builder

This is essentially what the first eBook is about: building grooves! It is the drummer's role to groove,
to keep good time, and bring vitality to the music. Some of the patterns in the latter pages of this section
are challenging for a starter drum eBook. However, I am confident that you can master them and make
them sound and feel vibrant.

The Fill-in Builder

As drummers, we play more than just grooves. We play fill-ins to embellish grooves or to set up new
sections of music. To do this we will use the rudiments we learned in the Rudiments Builder. We will
orchestrate them around the drum kit and then try out some stick & kick combinations.

The Melodic Builder

Although our primary role as drummers is rhythm and time-keeping, we do need to develop some awareness
and skill in playing melody. The 'toms' are an obvious vehicle for this as they offer us different pitches or tones
grouped together. Here we will create melodic rhythms on the toms while keeping the backbeat strong between
the kick and snare.

Before you dive into the Fast Groove Builder, most important of all is to remember that playing drums is an
artform. Although you can gain some technique and control after a few months, it takes dedicated practice to
reach higher levels of playing ability. You really have to love playing drums to succeed. Enjoy your playing!

Good luck and best wishes

Karl

2
Fast Groove Builder Drum Learn

Musical Symbols Builder

The Staff or Stave
Music is written on 5 horizonatal lines
called a Staff. Other lines called Ledger
lines are used both higher and lower to
add further instruments and notes.
The Percussion Clef
Written music has a symbol known
as a clef positioned at the start of
each new line of music. The clef
signifies what kind of instrument
or voice the music is written for.
The Time Signature
Here we have 4 / 4. The top number
indicates how many beats per bar.
The bottom number indicates the
time value of each beat. Therefore,
4/4 is 4 quarter beats per bar. A bar
is what you see below, marked by a
vertical line across the staff at the
end of the notes.
The Tempo Direction
This is ususally signified by
a musical note and a number.
The note signifies the beat
value while the number tells
you howmany beats per minute.
Below we have 60 quarter
beats per minute.

 4  = 60

The Quarter Note & Rest (Crotchet)
The quarter note is the basic pulse of most
musical styles. It is made up of a note head
and stem. Next to the note is the quarter
rest. It is a wavy line which indicates that
you should remain silent for a quarter
duration.
The Eighth Note & Rest (Quaver)
This note has a curved line known
as a 'Flag' drooping down to the
right side. The rest looks a bit like
the number 7. It is placed in the
third space on the staff.
The 2 Beat Note & Rest (Minim)
Here the note head is not filled in.
It has a regular stem like the quarter
note. The rest is a rectangular block
that sits on the staff line.
The 4 Beat Note & Rest (Semibreve)
Here we just have the note head on
it's own. The note head is not filled
in. The rest is similar to the 2 beat
rest. The difference is that the 4 beat
rest hangs from the staff line.

 
The 1 Bar Repeat Sign
This is represented by a slash
across the staff with two dots
either side. It indicates to repeat
the previous bar of music.
    
The Repeat Sign The Double Bar Line The Medium Accent
This is a double bar line with 2 dots This comes in two forms: This is an arrow-like symbol.
in the second and third spaces of the It can either mean the end of It means to accentuate the
staff. It can indicate to repeat a bar a section of music; or the end of note - make it louder than
or a section of music. a composition. the other notes.

 
The Musical Key At the beginning of a composition or drum music book, we usually find what's known as the Musical Key. This is a breakdown of
where on the staff all the voices of the dum kit can be found.

1. Hi-Hat foot 4. Snare Drum 7. 1st Tom 10. Ride Cymbal Bell 13. Open Hi-Hat (with stick) 16. Closed Hi-Hat (foot)
2. Kick Drum 5. Side stick 8. Cowbell 11. Hi-Hat (with stick) 14. Closed Hi-Hat (with stick)
3. 3rd Tom (floor tom) 6. 2nd Tom 9. Ride Cymbal 12. Crash Cymbal 15 Open Hi-Hat (foot)
12 13 14
7 8 9 10 11 o x

Key                
1 2 3 4 5 6 15 16

o x

Drum Music Notation Example

Below, arranged on the Staff, we have an illustration of some drum notation.

o x

44              

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Fast Groove Builder Drum Learn

Reader Builder 1
- Quarter, Eighth, & 2 Beat Notes

The Quarter Note Pulse (Quarter Notes) - Ex 1 & 2

The Quarter Note is the rhythmic pulse of most popular music. It is that to which you tap your foot or clap your hands. On the drum kit this pulse is often
played between the kick and snare drum, while the hi-hat or ride cymbal plays the subdivision notes. In this first exercise we will play the quarter note pulse
on the snare drum alternating the hands in the form of a single stroke roll: R L R L ... First, play the 1 bar exercise at a moderate tempo (not too fast and not
too slow) making sure the time duration between each stroke is even. In Ex 2 we will introduce the quarter note rest. In this exercise the rest is placed on
beats 2 and 4. Here we will play beats 1 and 3 and count the rests on beats 2 and 4.

Click Count Ex 1 Ex 2
1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4
44           44      R L R L R R

The Eighth Note Subdivision (Eighth Notes) - Ex 3

In popular music, eighth note subdivisions are usually played on the hi-hat. This is especially the case in styles such as rock, funk and ballads.
An eighth note hi-hat or cymbal pattern helps to keep the kick and snare punctuations in steady time.
When two or more eighth notes are written, they are very often joined together by a 'beam' which is placed across the top of the notes. Eighth notes
are written using a single beam. As with the quarter notes, we will play through the eighth note exercise using the single stroke roll: R L R L...Play
the right stick on beats 1,2,3 and 4 (which are known as the 'Downbeats') and the left stick on the 'an' of beats 1,2,3 and 4 (which are known as 'Upbeats'
or 'Offbeats').
Click Count Ex 3 Ex 4

44               44         
1 2 3 4

R L
1

R L
an

R
2

L
an

R L
3 an 4

R L
an

L R L
1

R
an

L
2 an 3 an 4 an

Eighth Notes & Rests - Ex 4

When an eighth note is written as a single note, it is tagged with what's known as a 'Flag'. If you look at the 'an' of 2 in exercise 2, above, you will see what
an eighth note with a 'flag' looks like. An eighth note rest is placed on beat 2 in the same exercise; it looks a little like the number '7'. Play through the exercise
with a single stroke roll as indicated by the sticking below the notation.
Quarter and Eighth Notes / Rests - Ex 5
Here we will mix together in a 2 bar phrase, the notes and rests we have looked at thus far. We will use an eighth note count to help us play through both bars,
as this covers all the sudivisions of the notes we are using. You can play through the exercise with one hand at first, until you become familiar with the rhythm.
Click Count Ex 5
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an

44   1
     2
      3

  
 4

R L L R R R L R L L R

2 Beat Notes & Rests (Minims) - Ex 6

A 2 beat note is worth 2 quarter note beats. If you look at one of the 2 beat notes you will see that the note head is not filled in.
A 2 beat rest is a small rectangular block that sits on the Staff line. You can see an example of a 2 beat rest on the first beat of
the second bar. We will count the quarter note pulse through the exercise. As these notes are of long duration, play through the
exercise with one hand.
Click Count Ex 6
1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4

44         
Quarter Notes, Eighth Notes, and 2 Beat Notes - Ex 7
Now we will put together what we've learned from the previous six exercises. I would play through this final three bar exercise with one hand, so you can
concentrate on playing the correct time duration for each of the notes. For most of this exercise, we will use a quarter note count, apart from when eighth
notes are played. In the exercise we will use this count for the 'an' of 4 in bar two and the 'an' of 2 in bar 3.

Click Count Ex 7
1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 an 1 2 an 3 4

44              

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Fast Groove Builder Drum Learn

Reader Builder 2
- Quarter & Eighth Note Mix

Quarter & Eighth Notes - Ex 8

Here are some examples of combinations of quarter and eighth notes. At first, play through the exercises with one hand, then alternate hands.
In the first sticking example the right hand plays all the downbeats, while the left plays upbeats. In the second sticking, we will try to play
alternate hands through the two bars.

Ex 8
Click Count 1 2 an 3 an 4 1 an 2 an 3 an 4
1 2 3 4
44                    R R L R L R R L R L R L R
R L R L R L R L R L R L R

Quarter & Eighth Notes - Ex 9

Ex 9
Click Count 1 an 2 3 4 1 an 2 3 an 4 an
1 2 3 4
44                   R L R R R R L R R L R L
R L R L R L R L R L R L

Quarters, Eighths & Eighth Note Rests - Ex 10

In this excerise we will introduce the term, 'syncopation'. Syncopation generally refers to mixed
upbeat and downbeat rhythms. The first bar of the exercise is an example of this type of rhythm.
Ex 10
Click Count

44   1
     2 3
         
 4 1 an 2 an 3 4 1 an 2 3 an 4

R L L R R R L R R L R
R L R L R L R L R L R

Quarters, Eighths & Quarter Note Rests - Ex 11

Continuing the syncopation theme, we will now play this type of rhythm across the bar line, creating a latin feel.

Ex 11
Click Count
1 2 3 an 4 an 1 2 an 3 an 4

44                
1 2 3 4

R R L L R R L L

Note Mix - Ex 12
In this final exercise we will play a 4 bar phrase using quarter and eighth notes. To begin with, play through it with one hand; then try alternate strokes.

Ex 12
Click Count 1 2 3 an 4 1 an 2 3 4 an 1 2 an 3 an 4 1 an 2 3 4

44   1
  2
   3
  4
    
      
  

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Fast Groove Builder Drum Learn

Rudiments Builder - Single & Double Strokes

Single Paradiddle
Single Stroke Roll - Ex 13
The Single Stroke Roll is usually the first rudiment (elementary stroke) that is taught. It is a simple pattern of alternating the right and left hands.
When playing the roll, try leading with both the right and left hands. This way you will gain a feel for playing left hand lead. Along with the hands
we will play an alternating quarter note pattern between the kick and hi-hat foot. When you close the hi-hat cymbals with your foot, make sure they
they don't ring or splash open. Firstly, play through the exercise without the kick and hi-hat foot. Then add the kick and hi-hat foot when you have
developed a feel for the roll.

Ex 13
Click Count R L R L R L R L R L R L R L R L
1 2 3 4
44                      
Double Stroke Roll - Ex 14
The Double Stroke Roll is two strokes played with one hand, followed by two strokes with the other hand. Marching snare drummers
or Pipe band drummers play many variations of this rudiment (5 stroke, 6 stroke, 7 stroke rolls etc) in their compositions.
To begin with, play through the exercise without the kick and hi-hat foot.

Ex 14
Click Count R R L L R R L L R R L L R R L L
1 2 3 4
44                      
Single Paradiddle - Ex 15
The Single Paradiddle is a combination of the Single and Double Stroke Rolls. Here we have two single strokes (R L)
followed by a double stroke (R R). The first note of each paradiddle is marked with an accent. This means to play the
first note louder than the non-accented notes. Try playing through the exercise both with and without the accent.

Ex 15
Click Count
1  2  3  4
44                      
R L R R L R L L R L R R L R L L

Single & Double Stroke Roll - Ex 16

We will now put the Single and Double Stroke Roll together. It is important to pay attention to the rhythm and sound
that you make when switching from single stroke to double stroke. Maintaining good consistancy of feel and sound
is important.

Ex 16
Click Count
1 2 3 4 R L R L R L R L R R L L R R L L

44                      
Singles, Doubles, & Single Paradiddle - Ex 17
Here we will put all three rudiments together in a 3 bar sequence. Remember to work on stroke accuracy and sound.
Stay relaxed so that your finger, hand and arm muscles can work well for you.

Ex 17 Single Stroke Double Stroke Single Paradiddle

Click Count
1 2 3 4 R L R L R L R L R R L L R R L L R L R R L R L L

44                              

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Fast Groove Builder Drum Learn

Groove Builder 1
- Quarter Notes on the hi-hat

1 We will begin with a simple rock beat. The hi-hat is played 2 Here we will add a second 'kick'
on all four beats of the bar. The snare is played on beats on the 'an' of beats 1 & 3.
2 & 4, while the kick drum is played on beats 1 & 3.
To start with, play the groove at a moderate tempo.

Ex 1 Ex 2
Click Count 1 2 3 4 Click Count

44           44            

1 2 3 4
hi-hat
snare
kick

1 an 2 3 an 4

3 Now we will play what is sometimes referred to as 4 This is an eighth note workout on the kick drum. Here the kick drum is
'4 on the floor'. Here you can see that the kick drum played on every eighth note within the bar: 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
is played on every quarter beat together with the
hi-hat.
Ex 3 Ex 4
Click Count 1 2 3 4 Click Count

44           44              
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an

5 Often, this kick rhythm is one of the most difficult of the 6 With this rhythm, the kick drum is played
starter beats. It is the offbeat 'kick' on the 'an' of 2 & 4 that on the 'an' of each quarter beat.
takes a little patience to master.

Ex 5 Ex 6
Click Count Click Count

44             44              

    
1 2 an 3 4 an 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an

7 Here we have the first of the snare drum variations. 8 We will add a snare note on the 'an' of 1 & 3.
We will play an extra snare note on the 'an' of 2 & 4. The hi-hat is played on every quarter note.

Ex 7 Ex 8
Click Count 1 2 an 3 4 an Click Count 1 an 2 3 an 4

44             44            

9 Here we will further develop our left hand on the snare. 10 This groove is a combination of grooves 7 & 8 with groove 9
We will play three eighth notes in a row from the 'an' of - a good challenge to finish Groove Builder 1.
beat 1 to the 'an' of beat 2. This can be tricky to begin
with. Take your time and you will master it!
Ex 9 Ex 10
Click Count 1 an 2 an 3 4 Click Count 1 2 an 3 an 4 1 an 2 an 3 4

44             44                  

    
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Fast Groove Builder Drum Learn

Groove Builder 2
- Eighth Notes on the hi-hat
With Groove Builder 2 we will play eighth notes on the hi-hat with all the kick drum patterns that we used in Groove Builder 1. By playing eighth notes on
the hi-hat we are now playing the upbeats (the 'an') of every quarter note beat. If you like, you can play a slight accent on beats 1, 2, 3 and 4, to emphasize
the quarter note pulse. This is the way most drummers play eighth notes on the hi-hat.

1 A simple eighth note rock beat. 2 Add a 'kick' on the 'an' of beat 1 & 3.

Ex 11 Ex 12
Click Count 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Click Count

44               44              

1 2 3 4

1 an 2 3 an 4

3 "4-on-the-Floor" 4 Kick drum plays on every eighth note.

Ex 13 Ex 14
1 2 3 4
Click Count Click Count

44               44              
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an

5 Upbeat kick on the 'an' of beats 2 & 4. 6 Kick drum is played on the 'an' of each quarter beat.

Ex 15 Ex 16
Click Count Click Count

44               44              
1 2 an 3 4 an 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an

7 Add a snare on the 'an' of beats 2 & 4. 8 Add a snare on the 'an' of beats 1 & 3.

Ex 17 Ex 18
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Click Count Click Count

44               44              

9 One for developing the left hand. 10 A combination of grooves 7, 8 and 9.

Ex 19 Ex 20
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Click Count Click Count

44               44                      

 
Copyright © 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved 8
Fast Groove Builder Drum Learn

Groove Builder 3 - Upbeat Eighth Notes

on the hi-hat
With Groove Builder 3 we will now play an upbeat hi-hat pattern with all the kick drum rhythms from Groove Builder 1. You have a choice how you play
this hi-hat rhythm: you can either tap the hi-hat on the top of the cymbal with the tip of the stick, or strike it on the side with the shoulder of the stick. You
can use both techniques for soft and loud volume levels: top of the hi-hat for soft; side of the hi-hat for medium to loud volume levels.

1 This is a dance or disco style beat. 2 Add a second kick note on the 'an' of beats 1 & 3.

Ex 21 Ex 22
Click Count
    1
 an 2
  an 3 an 4 an Click Count

44           44             
1 2
  3
  4
  
1 an 2 3 an 4

3 "4-on-the-Floor" 4 Kick drum is played on every eighth note.

Ex 23 Ex 24
Click Count
        Click Count

44           44              
      
1 2 3 4 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an

5 Played with an upbeat hi hat pattern, 6 Here the kick drum is played on all the
the kick rhythm is more challenging. upbeat eighths, together with the hi-hat.

Ex 25 Ex 26
Click Count
        Click Count

44             44              

      
1 2 an 3 4 an 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an

7 Add a snare note on the 'an' of beats 2 & 4. 8 Add a snare note on the 'an' of beats 1 & 3.

Ex 27 Ex 28
Click Count
    1 an 2
 
an 3
 
an 4 an
Click Count
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an

44               44              
9 Working the left hand, again. 10 Putting it together: Grooves 7,8 and 9.

Ex 29 Ex 30
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Click Count
    Click Count
                 
44              44    
  
   
Copyright © 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved 9
Fast Groove Builder Drum Learn

Groove Builder 4
- Kick & Snare Mix
1 First up we have a driving rock feel. 2 Next up is a funk/hip-hop feel with
Play this one with great intensity. the emphasis on punchy upbeat kick's.
Ex 1 Ex 2
Click Count
44              44             Click Count

3 This is a funky beat with a more spacious feel. The 4 If we add a couple of upbeat snare notes on the
space is created through leaving a gap on the kick 'an' of 3 & 4, we get a kind of suspended feeling
in the middle of the bar. in the second half of the bar.
Ex 3 Ex 4

44             44             

Click Count Click Count

5 With the upbeat snare note on the 'an' of 3 we 6 If we place an upbeat snare on the 'an' of 3
get a nice rounded feel to the end of the bar. and rest on beat 4 we get a feeling of being
suspended on the edge of a cliff.
Ex 5 Ex 6

44              44            

Click Count Click Count

7 This is a half-time groove. 'Half-time' means that the snare drum 8 Next we will add a kick on the 'an' of 1.
backbeat is played on beat 3, instead of the usual 2 & 4. This has This adds more 'beef' to the feel.
the effect of cutting the tempo by half. The kick drum is played
on beat 1.
Ex 7 Ex 8

44           44           

Click Count Click Count

9 This one has a more funky feel to it. Here we 10 If we add a kick on the 'an' of 1
have an upbeat kick on the 'an' of beat 2. we get a heavier funk feel.

Ex 9 Ex 10

44            44            

Click Count Click Count

11 Getting heavier with this one. 12 To finish, I think it would be good to try
This has a funky rock feel. Play out a two bar pattern with the half-time feel.
this one with great intensity.

Ex 11 Ex 12

44         
Click Count
  44                

Click Count


Copyright © 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved 10
Fast Groove Builder Drum Learn

Groove Builder 5
- Kick & Snare Mix 2
1 First up we have a hard driving rock feel. 2 Next up is a funk/hip-hop feel with
Play this one with great intensity. the emphasis on punchy upbeat kick's.
Ex 13 Ex 14
Click Count
44               44               Click Count

3 This is a funky beat with a more spacious feel. The 4 If we add a couple of upbeat snare notes on the
space is created through leaving a gap on the kick 'an' of 3 & 4, we get a kind of suspended feeling
in the middle of the bar. in the second half of the bar.

Ex 15 Ex 16

44               44              

Click Count Click Count

5 With the upbeat snare note on the 'an' of 3 we 6 If we place an upbeat snare on the 'an' of 3
get a nice rounded feel to the end of the bar. and rest on beat 4 we get a feeling of being
suspended on the edge of a cliff.

Ex 17 Ex 18

44               44              

Click Count Click Count

7 This is a half-time groove. 'Half-time' means that the snare 8 Next we will add a kick on the 'an' of 1.
drum backbeat is played on beat 3, instead of the usual This adds more 'beef' to the feel.
2 & 4. This has the effect of cutting the tempo by half.
Kick drum is played on the first beat.
Ex 19 Ex 20

44               44              

Click Count Click Count

9 This one has a more funky feel to it. 10 If we add a kick on the 'an' of 1
Here we have an upbeat kick on the we get a heavier funk feel.
'an' of beat 2.

Ex 21 Ex 22

44               44              

Click Count Click Count

11 Getting heavier with this one. This has 12 To finish, I think it would be good to try
a funky rock feel. Play this one with out a two bar pattern with the half-time feel.
great intensity.
Ex 23 Ex 24
Click Count
44               44     Click Count
                 

Copyright © 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved 11

Fast Groove Builder Drum Learn

Groove Builder 6
- Kick & Snare Mix 3
1 Driving rock feel. 2 Next up is a funk/hip-hop feel with
Play this one with great intensity. the emphasis on punchy upbeat kick's.

Click Count   Ex 25   Ex 26

44              44             
       Click Count

3 This is a funky beat with a more spacious feel. The 4 If we add a couple of upbeat snare notes on the
space is created through leaving a gap on the kick 'an' of 3 & 4, we get a kind of suspended feeling
in the middle of the bar. in the second half of the bar.

Ex 27 Ex 28


Click Count
         Click Count
44             44             
5 With the upbeat snare hit on the 'an' of 3 we 6 If we place an upbeat snare on the 'an' of 3
get a nice rounded feel to the end of the bar. and rest on beat 4 we get a feeling of being
suspended on the edge of a cliff.
Ex 29 Ex 30


Click Count
        Click Count
44              44            
7 A simple kick pattern to start the half-time groove section. 8 Next we will add a kick on the 'an' of 1.
This adds more 'beef' to the feel.

Ex 32


Click Count
   Ex 31

    Click Count
44           44           
9 This one has a more funky feel to it. 10 If we add a kick on the 'an' of 1
Here we have an upbeat kick on the we get a heavier funk feel.
'an' of beat 2.
Ex 33 Ex 34


Click Count
         Click Count
44            44            
11 Getting heavier with this one. 12 To finish we have a two bar pattern with the half-time feel.
This has a funky rock feel. Play
this one with great intensity.

Ex 35 Ex 36


Click Count
   Click Count
            
44            44          
Copyright © 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved 12
Fast Groove Builder Drum Learn

Fill-in Builder 1
- Single Strokes
Fill-in 1 Groove & Fill-in 1
We'll start by playing two eighth notes on each drum, Now we will play the fill-in with a quarter note rock groove. This
starting on the snare drum and moving round the toms. will give us some idea of how the fill sounds preceded by a rock beat.
Click Count
44               44       
Ex 1

R L R L R L R L
Click Count Ex 2
           

Fill-in 2 Groove & Fill-in 2
Next we will play two strokes on the snare followed This time we will play an eighth note
by 2 strokes on the first tom. Repeat this on beats rock beat together with the fill.
3 & 4 using the 3rd tom (Floor Tom).
Ex 3 Ex 4
Click Count
44               44    
R L R L R L R L
Click Count
                 
Fill-in 3 Groove & Fill-in 3
Now let's try playing the first note on the first tom; With this fill-in we will play another rock beat;
then 3 strokes on the snare. Repeat this using the 3rd this time with a more funky feel.
tom (floor tom) on beats 3 & 4.

Ex 5 Ex 6
Click Count
44               44    
R L R L R L R L
Click Count
                 
Fill-in 4 Groove & Fill-in 8
This time the right hand plays around the toms, Here we have an upbeat hi-hat rhythm.
while the left hand remains on the snare.

Ex 7
  Ex 8

44               44                   
Click Count

R L R L R L R L
   Click Count

Fill-in 5 Groove & Fill-in 5

With this fill-in, we will move the left hand up to the It works well if we add a half-time groove with this fill-in.
first and second toms on the 'an' of 1 & 3. The right
hand starts the fill on the snare drum.

Ex 9 Ex 10
Click Count
44               44    
R L R L R L R L
Click Count
              
Fill-in 6 Groove & Fill-in 6
To finish this page, we will now place the right This rhythm is an upbeat hi-hat pattern
hand on the toms on beats 2 & 4, imitating the combined with a half-time snare backbeat.
snare drum backbeat.

Click Count
Ex 11
    Click Count
Ex 12

44               44                  
R L R L R L R L

Copyright © 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved 13

Fast Groove Builder Drum Learn

Fill-in Builder 2
- Double Strokes
Fill-in 1 Groove & Fill-in 1
We'll start by playing 2 eighth notes on each drum, starting Now we will play the fill-in with a quarter note rock groove.
on the snare drum and then moving round the toms. This will give us some idea of how the fill sounds played with a beat.
Click Count Ex 13 Ex 14

44               44    
R R L L R R L L
Click Count
               
 
Fill-in 2 Groove & Fill-in 2
Next we will play two strokes on each of the This time we will play an eighth note
four drums starting on the second tom. rock beat together with the fill-in.

Ex 15 Ex 16
Click Count
44               44    
R R L L R R L L
Click Count
                 
Fill-in 3 Groove & Fill-in 3
Here we will play a double stroke with one hand between With this fill-in we will play a heavy driving rock beat.
two drums. This is a great technique to use for playing fast doubles
around the kit. It is a sweeping motion that is played down from the
toms to the snare or across from the snare to the 3rd tom (Floor tom).
Ex 17 Ex 18
Click Count
44               44    
R R L L R R L L
Click Count
                 
Fill-in 4 Groove & Fill-in 8
This time the right hand plays around the toms, We'll use a quarter note pattern on the hi-hat and an eighth
while the left hand remains on the snare. note double stroke pattern between the kick and snare.

Ex 19 Ex 20
Click Count
44               44    
R R L L R R L L
Click Count
                
Fill-in 5 Groove & Fill-in 5
With this fill-in, we will use the sweeping motion It works well if we add a half-time groove with this fill-in.
with the right hand played between two toms.

Ex 21 Ex 22
Click Count
44               44    
R R L L R R L L
Click Count
               

Fill-in 6 Groove & Fill-in 6
To finish we will use the right hand sweeping motion This rhythm is a linear pattern. Linear means that there is only one drum or cymbal
from the snare to the 3rd tom on beat 1. We will reverse played at any one time. This is a half-time feel with the snare backbeat on beat 3.
this motion on beat 3.
Ex 23
 Ex 24

44               44                    
Click Count

R R L L R R L L
 Click Count

Copyright © 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved 14

Fast Groove Builder Drum Learn

Fill-in Builder 3
- Single Paradiddle
Fill-in 1 Groove & Fill-in 1
We'll start by playing a tom on the first stroke of each paradiddle. Now we will play the fill-in with a rock beat.
Ex 25 Ex 26
Click Count
44               44    
R L R R L R L L
Click Count
               

Fill-in 2 Groove & Fill-in 2
Next we will play the first 2 single strokes on the snare; This time we will combine an upbeat and straight
then the double stroke on the 3rd tom (floor tom). Repeat eighth note rock beat together with the fill.
this sequence on beats 3 & 4 using the 1st tom.

Ex 27
  Ex 28

44               44                      

Click Count

R L R R L R L L
 Click Count

Fill-in 3 Groove & Fill-in 3

The right hand plays the first tom on beat 1 With this fill-in we will play a disco style dance beat.
and the 3rd tom (Floor tom) on the 'an' of 3.

Ex 30
Ex 29
 
44               44                  
Click Count

R L R R L R L L
   Click Count

Fill-in 4 Groove & Fill-in 4

Around the kit with this pattern. The right Here we willl use a funky upbeat
hand plays most of the tom strokes. pattern on the snare for the beat.

Ex 31 Ex 32
Click Count
44               44    
R L R R L R L L
Click Count
                
Fill-in 5 Groove & Fill-in 5
Right hand plays 2nd tom and 3rd tom. We will use another half-time groove with this fill-in.
Left hand plays 1st tom and snare drum.

Ex 33 Ex 34
Click Count
44               44    
R L R R L R L L
Click Count
              
 
Fill-in 6 Groove & Fill-in 6
Right hand plays around the kit with this one. This beat is a little tricky with the hand and foot coordination between the kick and hi-hat.
Again, it is a half-time feel with the snare played on beat 3.

Ex 35
  Ex 36

44               44                    
Click Count

R L R R L R L L
  Click Count

Copyright © 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved 15

Fast Groove Builder Drum Learn

Fill-in Builder 4
- Stick & Kick Mix
Fill-in 1 Groove & Fill-in 1
The right hand moves around the toms, while the All the beats used in Fill-in Builder 4 mirror the fill-in rhythms.
kick is played on upbeats. This one is a straight quarter note rock feel.
Ex 37 Ex 38
Click Count
44               44    
R F R F R F R F
Click Count
               

Fill-in 2 Groove & Fill-in 2
Here we have double strokes between hands and feet. Another pop rock variation played with this fill.

Ex 39 Ex 40
Click Count
44               44    
F F R L F F R L
Click Count
                 
Fill-in 3 Groove & Fill-in 3
Moving round the kit with this one. With this fill-in we can play a dance style beat.

Ex 41 Ex 42
Click Count
44               44    
R F F L R F F L
Click Count
                 
Fill-in 4 Groove & Fill-in 4
Syncopation with the kick drum in a 3 3 2 pattern. Straight forward rock/dance beat with this fill-in.

Ex 43 Ex 44
Click Count
44               44    
F L R F R L F L
Click Count
                
Fill-in 5 Groove & Fill-in 5
Starting to split the hands up around the kit. We will play a more challenging beat with this fill-in.
.
Ex 45 Ex 46

44              44        

Click Count

R L R R L R L
Click Count
           

Fill-in 6 Groove & Fill-in 6
Left hand plays upbeats on the 'an' of 2 and 4. Here we will play a funky beat with this fill-in.

Ex 47 Ex 48

44             44         

Click Count

R R L R R L
Click Count
        

Copyright © 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved 16
Fast Groove Builder Drum Learn

Fill-in Builder 5
- Stick & Kick Mix 2
Fill-in 1 Groove & Fill-in 1
With all the fill-ins, remember to keep your right hand playing In the rhythm we have the snare drum playing on all 4 quarter
downbeats and your left hand playing upbeats. beats. You play an upbeat on the kick on the 'an' of 1 and 3.
Click Count Ex 48 Ex 49

44               44     Click Count

                 
R F R L F L R F

Fill-in 2 Groove & Fill-in 2

Next we have a double stroke followed
by a single stroke on the kick drum.
Ex 50
Click Count
44               44    
R L F F R F R L
Fill-in 3
Here we can get used to leading with the left hand.
Kick drum is played on beats 1& 3.
This time the beat flows int o the fill-in with an upbeat
snare. Try to get a nice even flow throughout the 2 bars
so it sounds like one continous motion.
Ex 51
Click Count
                 
Groove & Fill-in 3
The beat we have here is a kind of country bluegrass feel
Notice that the right hand plays the snare backbeats on
2 & 4. The groove mirrors the fill-in.

Ex 52 Ex 53 R L R L R L R L
11
Click Count
    Click Count
44               44                      
F L R L F L R L

Fill-in 4 Groove & Fill-in 4

We will end this fill-in with a quarter note on beat 4. This groove has a light bouncy feel.

Ex 54 Ex 55

16
Click Count
44              44    
F L R F R F R
Click Count
               
Fill-in 5 Groove & Fill-in 5
With the kick drum we play a quarter note The left hand plays the last two snare
on beat 2 and an upbeat on the 'an' of 3. drum notes leading on to the fill-in.

Ex 56 Ex 57 R R R R L L

44              44                   

Click Count

R L F R F R L
Click Count

Fill-in 6 Groove & Fill-in 6

There's quite a lot of space in this fill-in. You might find This last groove and fill-in contains a lot of upbeat kick notes.
that you feel you want to play more notes. Here there is
only one left hand stroke which is on the last eighth note
of the bar.
Ex 58 Ex 59

44             44                    

Click Count

F R F R F L
Click Count

Copyright © 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved 17

Fast Groove Builder Drum Learn

Melodic Builder 1
- Kit Mix
Groove 1 Medodic Sound 1a Melodic Beat 1b
An eighth note rock beat to start. Here we will orchestrate the hi-hat pattern from Groove 1 Now we will add the kick and snare played

        Click Count

around the toms.We will use a 3 2 3 note pattern.
 with the foot and other hand.

. 44      44               4              
.
R R R R R R R R

Groove 2 Melodic Sound 2a Melodic Beat 2b

Eight Note Rock beat. Here we have a second 3 3 2 pattern around Again, we will add the kick and snare.
the toms with the right hand.

 
. 44          44               4    
.
Click Count

R R R R R R R R
         
Groove 3 Melodic Beat 3a Melodic Beat 3b
Upbeat hi-hat pattern. Remember that the right hand Notice with this one that the snare
plays around the toms. on the 'an' of 2 is played with the
right hand.

44          44     Click Count

   
         4       
 
. .
F R L R F R L R F R L R F R L R

Groove 4 Melodic Beat 4a Melodic Beat 4b

Upbeat hi-hat pattern. Hi-hat on the first 2 upbeats; Moving round the kit with this one.
then toms on the 'an' of 3 & 4.

         
Click Count
  
. 44      44            4            
.
F R L R F R L R F R L R F R L R

Groove 5 Melodic Beat 5a Melodic Beat 5b

Upbeat mix Upbeats on the hi-hat followed by a run 3rd tom (floor tom) upbeats followed
down the toms with the right hand. by two notes on the hi-hat.

          Click Count    

. 44      44             4    
L .        
Groove 6 Melodic Beat 6a Melodic Beat 6b
Syncopated hi-hat. A syncopated melody around the toms. The right hand moves from the 3rd tom
Left hand plays the snare. (floor tom) to the snare on the 'an' of beat 1.

.
         44             4             
R R L R R R

.
Click Count

  L
   
Copyright © 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved 18
Fast Groove Builder Drum Learn

Melodic Builder 2
- Kit Mix
Groove 1 Medodic Sound 1a Melodic Beat 1b
An eighth note rock beat to start. Here we have a more complex 3 3 2 pattern Now we will add the kick and snare.
around the toms with the right hand.
 
44          44               4    
Click Count

R R R R R R R R
   
       
Groove 2 Melodic Sound 2a Melodic Beat 2b
Eighth note rock beat. This pattern creates a sort of 'Z' motion around the kit. Again we will add the kick and snare.
Watch out for the snare note on the 'an' of 2 & 4.

 
44          44               4              
Click Count

R R R R R R R R

Groove 3 Melodic Beat 3a Melodic Beat 3b

Upbeat hi-hat. Right hand plays around the toms. Notice with this one that the snare
on the 'an' of 2 is played with the
right hand.
   
  
44          44     Click Count
        4     
 
Groove 4 Melodic Beat 4a Melodic Beat 4b
Upbeat hi-hat. Right hand starts and ends on the 3rd tom. Here there is no snare note on beat 2.
Instead, accent the tom note with the
left hand. Accent beat 4 on the snare.

      Click Count
    
44      44               4       
Groove 5 Melodic Beat 5a Melodic Beat 5b
Upbeat mix Left hand plays the 3rd tom (floor tom) on the The left hand plays the 3rd tom (floor tom)
'an' of 4. on the 'an' of 4.

        
44          44               4    
L
Click Count
       
Groove 6 Melodic Beat 6a Melodic Beat 6b
Syncopated hi-hat. Hi-hat intro with right hand The right hand starts on the toms, moves to
moving to the 2nd tom. the hi-hat, then ends on the 3rd tom.

         44    
R R L R R R
Click Count

         4        
  L
        

Copyright © 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved 19

Fast Groove Builder Drum Learn

Closing Remarks

Congratulations for reaching the end of the Fast Groove Builder.

At this stage you have gained understanding of many musical symbols.You now know
the basics of music notation and have gained some experience in reading and playing
snare drum rhythms, rudiments and rock and popular beats. Also, you have experimented
with melodic groove playing using the toms. At this stage, you should be getting a good
feel for the kit, and how you, as a drummer, functions.

The Smart Sticks Worker (Drum eBook No. 2) will guide you through the next step in
your drum kit studies. This Drum eBook will look at Sixteenth Note Grooves, Triplet Grooves,
more rudiments including Rolls, Ruffs, Drags and Flams, plus ODD TIME signatures.

Lots more to look forward to...more dedication...more challenges...more fun!