In other words, a hi hat would be played on every half beat. So, in this example, we would play 8 hi hats in the measure (bar). The crossed notehead sitting above the top line tells us to play a hi hat and the note is an eighth note (a quaver). The bottom number tells us that the beats are quarter note beats (crotchets). In the first example below, the top number in the time signature tells us that there are 4 beats in a bar. Let’s have a look at some examples of drum music. (Have a look at my article on note lengths if you’re unsure). The combination of pulse and note lengths enables you to play the rhythm.
Now look at which line/space the note is on - this will tell you which drum to play.ģ.
The tempo marking will show you how fast the pulse is, whilst the time signature will show you the grouping of the beat.Ģ. So, firstly look at the tempo marking and the time signature.
#BASIC DRUM BEATS NOTATION HOW TO#
The standard key is shown below:ĭrum notation uses all of the same ingredients as standard notation so, as long as you know how to read sheet music, you have all of the skills you need to read drum music.ġ. In drum notation each individual line/space corresponds to a different drum. Obviously you don’t need to be able to read pitch when playing drums, but you do need to know which drum to play. However, it’s actually pretty simple to grasp because there are only 2 main things you need to be able to work out from the notation: Many people who want to learn how to read drum music get put off by the fact that drum notation can look quite complex at first. However, most would probably admit they wish they had learned to read music. Before we start on the basics of reading drum music, being able to read drum notation isn’t mandatory! Plenty of great drummers can’t read drum music at all and play entirely by ear.
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