Free Drum Lessons

Keith Carlock - Drum Solo - Notation Excerpt

Keith Carlock, known for his work with diverse acts including: Steely Dan, John Mayer, Chris Botti, Wayne Krantz and Toto; performs an impassioned improvised solo.

Elements of a Beat

This is a quick reference for the basic elements and terminology used in rhythm notation.

Open Hi-Hat Layering

The open hi hat techniques creates interesting 2-measure repeating beats by adding layers to your grooves.

Groove Embellishment

Starting with a foundational groove, this lesson adds embellishments to develop the groove and create two-measure repeating patterns.

Expression With Accents

This lesson explores the technique of accenting to create more expressive grooves. Snare Drum Workbook Chart-Topping Drum Fills

Accented Sixteenth-Note Development

This week's Monday lesson explores accented sixteenth-note patterns that can be expanded around the kit to create a lot of groove ideas.

Leave It Open

This sheet accompanies Nate Brown's video drum lesson exploring techniques with the open hi-hat cymbal to create layered grooves.

How To Tune Drums

Learn the ins and outs of tuning drums to finally produce the sound you're looking for. Find insights into wood types, drum heads and complete video instruction for tuning drums.

Don The Hat - Subtle Hi-Hat Dynamics

This lesson explores adding rhythmic layers to your grooves using subtle hi-hat dynamics. It's surprising how much a little dynamic control can improve the sound of your overall playing.

The Most Common Non-Common Time Signatures

I hope you excuse the pun in the title. “Common time” is a term used to refer to 4/4, which is the most common time signature. This lesson focuses on the most common, non 4/4 time signatures, giving you some drum beat and fill examples.