Free Drum Lessons

Bang Bang - Drum Intro - Tom Groove Anyone?

Bang Bang is featured on Green Day's latest album Revolution Radio. This lesson explores the upbeat tom groove intro and punk, headbanging classic beat.

Chad Smith Drum Fill - Give It Away

This lesson explores a drum fill played by Chad Smith in the outro section of the song Give It Away. Learn this extending-the-fill technique and some applications for around the drum kit.

Exploring the "& ah" Drum Lesson

This lesson explores adding a syncopated crash on the "ah" of beat 4.

Stickin' with the Bass - Drum Beats

Enjoy 8 grooves that feature an additional hi-hat stroke each time the bass drum is played on an "e" or "ah."

Rockin' the Ands

We often find ourselves in a straight-8th-note rut when it comes to playing the hi-hat. Step out of the rut with these 8 beats featuring an "and" ostinato on the hi-hat.

Moving Hands - Simple Drum Fill Technique

The Moving Hands technique is a simple way to create a drum fill by playing the same drum beat while moving your hands around the toms.

Layering a Groove

This drum lesson begins with a foundational groove and gradually adds layers to fill out the groove. Use this technique to make your playing sound fuller.

What is a Drum Fill, Really?

What constitutes a drum fill? Could a single stroke be considered a drum fill? Find out!

Short fills are perfect for light transitions or breaking up repeated bars of drum beats. If overused, they can become annoying and predictable. Used with purpose and judgement, short fills are a great addition to the song.

7/8 Beats From Patrick Marsepoil's Ebook

This lesson introduces 7/8 timing using Patrick Marsepoil's latest ebook, "7/8 Beats: Odd-Time Coordination."

Simple Swing Sixteenths - Drum Fills

Some simple patterns, when orchestrated around multiple drums, create complex-sounding, syncopated grooves. In this lesson, we're orchestrating a full bar of sixteenth notes around the kit.

How Do You Stand It? - Music Stands for Drummers

A sheet music stand is an important piece of equipment for the working drummer and student alike. There are some great options available which suit the specific needs of drummers. The following list contains the names of the stands in the above collage, their approximate price, and some helpful links.