Discovering Your Learning Style

Every drummer has a learning style that works best for him or her. What works for another drummer might not work for you. It’s important to explore different learning techniques until you find a method that’s best for you. Consider the following learning techniques. You may even find that a combination of techniques is the key to your success.

Learning a Drum Beat with the “Vertical Technique”

When learning a new beat, I find that the “vertical” approach to learning the beat helps my body become comfortable with the groove quickly, and I also find it easier to comprehend the groove this way.

With the vertical technique, play the beat count by count, playing all the drums that line up vertically on each count. With this method you can play any beat, even though you might be playing it very slowly at first.

The example below outlines how to learn the “Mother of All Rock Beats” from page 5 using the vertical technique.

Practice Tip

Start very slowly, making sure to keep consistent timing. As your body becomes comfortable with the groove, gradually increase the speed. Eventually, you’ll have it nailed.