The Way of the Hi-Hat
By Nate Brown
Hi-hat patterns and articulations can change the feel of a groove entirely. Because of this, it's important to recognize the feel your hi-hat patterns create — and to use that knowledge to choose hi-hat patterns that match the feel of the song.
These exercises use a basic, four-on-the-floor pattern with the snare drum on beats 2 and 4 throughout. Notice how the different hi-hat patterns and accents change the feel of the groove. Sometimes the change is subtle. Other times it’s dramatic.
After learning these, try applying the hi-hat patterns to more advanced beats that you may play. Listen and take note of how they manipulate the feel of the groove.
