Working With The Hi-Hat
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The Drum Room <new drummer> |
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One mistake a lot of drummers make is they don't look at the hi-hat as part of the drum set. They view it as a way to keep time, and nothing more. Although the hi-hat is the most important element in time keeping, it can be a lot more. Here's an example; Start off by playing a basic 4/4 beat. Your hi-hat is played as 1+2+3+4+, while your bass drum is on the 1 and the 3, and your snare is on the 2 and the 4. Now play with your hi-hat on just the ands (+). You'll notice that this will totally change the feel of the beat, even though your still playing in 4/4. Here's another one; Again, play a 4/4 beat, this time using your ride to keep the time, 1+2+3+4+, bass drum on the 1 and the 3, and the snare on the 2 and the 4, use your foot to play the hi-hat on all the downbeats, 1 2 3 4. Here's one more; Using the same 4/4 beat, still using the ride to keep time,1+2+3+4+, Use your foot to play the hi-hat on all the ands. This one may be a little difficult at first, especially if your not a double bass drummer. Once you've become more comfortable with these exercises, you'll find that what you can do with your hi-hat is unlimited. Remember to start off slow and work your way up to speed. And remember to always use a metronome. |