The Drumkit
This photo shows a full drumkit (or drumset). When you hear a drummer playing with a band, this is the combination of drums and cymbals they are using. Look at the photo and learn the names of the different parts of the drumkit.
The best thing about playing the whole drumkit is that you can play up to four parts at once by using both hands and both feet, which means that you can play all the parts of a percussion trio or quartet by yourself.
Many drum parts can be played using only the hi-hat cymbals (right hand), the bass drum (right foot) and the snare drum (left hand). The following examples show how a drum pattern (also called a beat or groove) can be built up from these three parts of the drumkit.
The hi-hat cymbals are played with a drumstick usually held by the right hand. Cymbal parts are written with an x instead of a notehead for each note.
The bass drum is played with the right foot. The snare drum is played with a drumstick held by the left hand.
When the parts are all put together, you end up with a full drumset pattern. This particular pattern is called a Rock beat. The notation here shows how most drum music is written.
Here is a final song which combines a Rock beat played on the drums with parts for rhythm sticks and bongo drums. The final note in the drum part is played on the crash cymbal.
If you are interested in learning to play the drums, see Progressive Beginner Drums . It is best to learn from a drum teacher so that you learn all of the techniques for hands and feet correctly. Keep practicing, keep playing and have fun.
