Learn-A-Beat™ | Drum Care | Drum Decorating

Somewhere in time, around 1971-72 or so, my new drum teacher decided to introduce me to a language based approach to playing rhythms. I believe he came upon this method because traditional notational systems didn't help his own development. He figured that by approximating the sounds of the drums, using invented words, the secret of rhythmic bliss might be further revealed. By the way, this approach to learning is very familiar to many cultures throughout the world. Well, here we go...

Boom = Right hand - Center of drumhead (finger tips)**

Chik = Right hand - Edge of drumhead (finger tips)

Uh = Left hand - Edge of drumhead (finger tips)

**Boom can also be played with the left hand, depending on convenience, when applying certain rhythmic patterns. (This should be helpful for "Lefties" as well.)

Here are some basic rhythms to help get you started:

BOOM BOOM CHIK UH BOOM BOOM CHIK (REPEAT)

BOOM CHIK UH BOOM BOOM CHIK UH BOOM CHIK (REPEAT)

CHIK CHIK BOOM CHIK UH BOOM BOOM CHIK (REPEAT)

CHIK UH CHIK UH BOOM CHIK UH CHIK CHIK BOOM CHIK UH (REPEAT)

Now, try any combination you like. Add a pause at the end of each rhythm above and see how that changes it. There is no right or wrong--play what you feel. And remember, if you can say it, you can play it!

Enjoy your new Drum!