You’ve mastered the fundamentals of drumming, nailed those basic beats and fills, and now you’re ready to take your skills to the next level. Congratulations! You’re officially an intermediate drummer, and a whole new world of rhythmic possibilities awaits you. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the exciting realm of intermediate drumming, exploring advanced techniques, complex grooves, and the wealth of online resources available to help you elevate your playing.
Elevate Your Rhythm: Essential Intermediate Drumming Techniques
- Ghost Notes: These subtle, quieter notes add depth and texture to your grooves. They’re often played on the snare drum with a lighter touch and can be incorporated into various rhythms to create a more nuanced sound.
- Cross-Sticking: This technique involves striking the rim of the snare drum with one stick while simultaneously hitting the drumhead with the other. It creates a unique, syncopated sound that adds flair to your playing.
- Linear Drumming: Instead of playing all the drums at once, linear drumming involves playing one drum or cymbal at a time in a sequential pattern. This technique creates a more melodic and flowing sound, often used in jazz and fusion genres.
- Odd Time Signatures: While most music is written in 4/4 time (four beats per measure), exploring odd time signatures like 7/8 or 5/4 can open up new rhythmic possibilities and add a unique flavor to your playing.
- Polyrhythms: Polyrhythms involve playing two or more different rhythms simultaneously, creating a complex and layered sound. This technique requires advanced coordination and independence between your limbs.
Unleash Your Groove: Complex Drum Grooves to Master
- Jazz: Jazz drumming is known for its swing feel, syncopated rhythms, and intricate brushwork. Explore jazz standards like “Take Five” or “So What” to develop your jazz vocabulary and improvisation skills.
- Funk: Funk drumming is all about the groove. Master the syncopated beats and funky fills of iconic tracks like “Superstition” or “Give Up the Funk” to get your body moving.
- Latin: Latin rhythms like salsa, bossa nova, and samba offer a rich tapestry of percussion sounds and patterns. Learn the clave, the fundamental rhythm of Latin music, and explore the diverse world of Latin drumming.
- Fusion: Fusion drumming blends elements of different genres, creating a unique and eclectic sound. Dive into the world of fusion drumming by exploring the music of artists like Billy Cobham, Dennis Chambers, and Vinnie Colaiuta.
Best Online Drum Lessons for Intermediate Drummers:
The digital landscape offers a wealth of resources for intermediate drummers. Here are some of the best online drum lessons and drumming training platforms to consider:
- Drumeo: A comprehensive platform with a vast library of lessons, courses, and play-along tracks for drummers of all levels.
- Mike Johnston’s Drum Lab: Offers in-depth lessons on technique, groove, and musicality, taught by renowned drummer Mike Johnston.
- Stephen Taylor’s Drumming System: Focuses on developing a strong foundation in technique and reading skills through structured lessons and exercises.
- Masterclass: Learn from drumming legends like Ringo Starr and Sheila E. in their exclusive online classes.
Tips for Maximizing Your Online Drumming Journey:
- Set Clear Goals: Identify specific techniques or grooves you want to master and create a structured practice plan.
- Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is crucial for progress. Dedicate time each day to practice, even if it’s just for a short period.
- Record Yourself: Record your practice sessions to identify areas for improvement and track your progress.
- Experiment and Explore: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different sounds, techniques, and styles. The beauty of drumming lies in its limitless possibilities for creative expression.
- Join Online Communities: Connect with other drummers online, share your experiences, and learn from each other. Online drumming communities offer a wealth of support, inspiration, and resources.
With dedication, practice, and the right guidance, you can unleash your inner groove and reach new heights in your drumming journey. So, dive into the world of online drum lessons and let the rhythm guide you towards becoming the drummer you’ve always dreamed of being.
