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eBooks
Fast Groove Builder
by Karl Price
Contents
2 Introduction
3 Musical Symbols Builder
4 Reader Builder 1 - Quarter, Eighth, and 2 Beat Notes
5 Reader Builder 2 - Quarter and Eighth Note Mix
6 Rudiments Builder - Single Stroke, Double Stroke and Single Paradiddle
7 Groove Builder 1 - Quarter Notes on the hi-hat
8 Groove Builder 2 - Eighth Notes on the hi-hat
9 Groove Builder 3 - Upbeat Eighth Notes on the hi-hat
10 Groove Builder 4 - Kick and Snare Mix with Quarter Notes on the hi-hat
11 Groove Builder 5 - Kick and Snare Mix with Eighth Notes on the hi-hat
12 Groove Builder 6 - Kick and Snare Mix with Upbeat Eighth Notes on the hi-hat
13 Fill-in Builder 1 - Single Strokes
14 Fill-in Builder 2 - Double Strokes
15 Fill-in Builder 3 - Single Paradiddle
16 Fill-in Builder 4 - Stick and Kick Mix
17 Fill-in Builder 5 - Stick and Kick Mix 2
18 Melodic Builder 1 - Kit Mix
19 Melodic Builder 2 - Kit Mix
20 Closing Remarks
Drum Learn
Introduction
Fast Groove Builder
2
Welcome to the Fast Groove Builder!
The Fast Groove Builder is the first in a series of five drum eBooks. As the title implies, the books have
been designed to present essential drum and groove building concepts in an efficient and systematic way.
First, we will begin by looking at all the musical symbols that we will use in the Fast Groove Builder.
Second, we will look at some simple note reading exercises to get familiar with rhythm and tempo.
Thirdly, we will learn the starter rudiments: single strokes, double strokes, and single paradiddle.
Following on from this we will begin work on the "Grooves" section. Simple quarter and eighth note
grooves to start, with more complex patterns to follow.
Next up we will look at some Fill-ins using the starter rudiments we learned in chapter two. Also in this
section, we will try out some combination fill-ins with the kick and snare.
In the final chapter of the eBook, we will put all the rhythmic building concepts together and explore
some melodic ideas using the different sounds of the drum kit.
The Reader Builder
Although learning to read music is not essential when learning a musical instrument, it can be a valuable
asset in many ways. For instance, you won't be able to take full advantage of learning the rhythms in this
eBook if you don't learn how to read the notation. Secondly, many professional musical settings require
musicians to read music; if you can't, then you won't get the gig! Also, it can also be useful as a second
memory: How are we going to remember the rhythms, fills and song structures of 20-30 compositions?
If you can read and write music notation, you don't have to sweat and struggle to remember them!
The Rudiments Builder
Rudiments (elementary strokes) are essential in learning to play the drums. They are the basis of all the
patterns we as drummers, play. The three rudiments that are presented in this chapter are what I would
refer to as "core" rudiments. Every other rudiment or sticking pattern is a combination of them.
The Groove Builder
This is essentially what the first eBook is about: building grooves! It is the drummer's role to groove,
to keep good time, and bring vitality to the music. Some of the patterns in the latter pages of this section
are challenging for a starter drum eBook. However, I am confident that you can master them and make
them sound and feel vibrant.
The Fill-in Builder
As drummers, we play more than just grooves. We play fill-ins to embellish grooves or to set up new
sections of music. To do this we will use the rudiments we learned in the Rudiments Builder. We will
orchestrate them around the drum kit and then try out some stick & kick combinations.
The Melodic Builder
Although our primary role as drummers is rhythm and time-keeping, we do need to develop some awareness
and skill in playing melody. The 'toms' are an obvious vehicle for this as they offer us different pitches or tones
grouped together. Here we will create melodic rhythms on the toms while keeping the backbeat strong between
the kick and snare.
Before you dive into the Fast Groove Builder, most important of all is to remember that playing drums is an
artform. Although you can gain some technique and control after a few months, it takes dedicated practice to
reach higher levels of playing ability. You really have to love playing drums to succeed. Enjoy your playing!
Good luck and best wishes
Karl
Musical Symbols Builder
Drum Learn
Fast Groove Builder
3
The Staff or Stave
Music is written on 5 horizonatal lines
called a Staff. Other lines called Ledger
lines are used both higher and lower to
add further instruments and notes.
The Staff or Stave
Music is written on 5 horizonatal lines
called a Staff. Other lines called Ledger
lines are used both higher and lower to
add further instruments and notes.
The Percussion Clef
Written music has a symbol known
as a clef positioned at the start of
each new line of music. The clef
signifies what kind of instrument
or voice the music is written for.
,
The Percussion Clef
Written music has a symbol known
as a clef positioned at the start of
each new line of music. The clef
signifies what kind of instrument
or voice the music is written for.
The Time Signature
Here we have 4 / 4. The top number
indicates how many beats per bar.
The bottom number indicates the
time value of each beat. Therefore,
4/4 is 4 quarter beats per bar. A bar
is what you see below, marked by a
vertical line across the staff at the
end of the notes.
.
.

The Time Signature
Here we have 4 / 4. The top number
indicates how many beats per bar.
The bottom number indicates the
time value of each beat. Therefore,
4/4 is 4 quarter beats per bar. A bar
is what you see below, marked by a
vertical line across the staff at the
end of the notes.
= 60
The Tempo Direction
This is ususally signified by
a musical note and a number.
The note signifies the beat
value while the number tells
you howmany beats per minute.
Below we have 60 quarter
beats per minute.
= 60
The Tempo Direction
This is ususally signified by
a musical note and a number.
The note signifies the beat
value while the number tells
you howmany beats per minute.
Below we have 60 quarter
beats per minute.
The Quarter Note & Rest (Crotchet)
The quarter note is the basic pulse of most
musical styles. It is made up of a note head
and stem. Next to the note is the quarter
rest. It is a wavy line which indicates that
you should remain silent for a quarter
duration.
The 1 Bar Repeat Sign
This is represented by a slash
across the staff with two dots
either side. It indicates to repeat
the previous bar of music.

The Quarter Note & Rest (Crotchet)
The quarter note is the basic pulse of most
musical styles. It is made up of a note head
and stem. Next to the note is the quarter
rest. It is a wavy line which indicates that
you should remain silent for a quarter
duration.
The 1 Bar Repeat Sign
This is represented by a slash
across the staff with two dots
either side. It indicates to repeat
the previous bar of music.
The Eighth Note & Rest (Quaver)
This note has a curved line known
as a 'Flag' drooping down to the
right side. The rest looks a bit like
the number 7. It is placed in the
third space on the staff.
The Repeat Sign
This is a double bar line with 2 dots
in the second and third spaces of the
staff. It can indicate to repeat a bar
or a section of music.

The Eighth Note & Rest (Quaver)
This note has a curved line known
as a 'Flag' drooping down to the
right side. The rest looks a bit like
the number 7. It is placed in the
third space on the staff.
The Repeat Sign
This is a double bar line with 2 dots
in the second and third spaces of the
staff. It can indicate to repeat a bar
or a section of music.
The 2 Beat Note & Rest (Minim)
Here the note head is not filled in.
It has a regular stem like the quarter
note. The rest is a rectangular block
that sits on the staff line.
The Double Bar Line
This comes in two forms:
It can either mean the end of
a section of music; or the end of
a composition.

.
The 2 Beat Note & Rest (Minim)
Here the note head is not filled in.
It has a regular stem like the quarter
note. The rest is a rectangular block
that sits on the staff line.
The Double Bar Line
This comes in two forms:
It can either mean the end of
a section of music; or the end of
a composition.
,
The Medium Accent
This is an arrow-like symbol.
It means to accentuate the
note - make it louder than
the other notes.
The 4 Beat Note & Rest (Semibreve)
Here we just have the note head on
it's own. The note head is not filled
in. The rest is similar to the 2 beat
rest. The difference is that the 4 beat
rest hangs from the staff line.

The Medium Accent

This is an arrow-like symbol.
It means to accentuate the
note - make it louder than
the other notes.
The 4 Beat Note & Rest (Semibreve)
Here we just have the note head on
it's own. The note head is not filled
in. The rest is similar to the 2 beat
rest. The difference is that the 4 beat
rest hangs from the staff line.

The Musical Key

1
3
4
2
Key
2. Kick Drum
3. 3rd Tom (floor tom)
4. Snare Drum
At the beginning of a composition or drum music book, we usually find what's known as the Musical Key. This is a breakdown of
where on the staff all the voices of the dum kit can be found.
1. Hi-Hat foot
,

1
3
4
2
Key
2. Kick Drum
3. 3rd Tom (floor tom)
4. Snare Drum
At the beginning of a composition or drum music book, we usually find what's known as the Musical Key. This is a breakdown of
where on the staff all the voices of the dum kit can be found.
1. Hi-Hat foot
5
6
7 8
5. Side stick
6. 2nd Tom
7. 1st Tom
8. Cowbell

5
6
7 8
5. Side stick
6. 2nd Tom
7. 1st Tom
8. Cowbell
9 10
11
12
9. Ride Cymbal
10. Ride Cymbal Bell
12. Crash Cymbal
11. Hi-Hat (with stick)
.


9 10
11
12
9. Ride Cymbal
10. Ride Cymbal Bell
12. Crash Cymbal
11. Hi-Hat (with stick)
o x
o x
13 14
15 16
16. Closed Hi-Hat (foot) 13. Open Hi-Hat (with stick)
14. Closed Hi-Hat (with stick)
15 Open Hi-Hat (foot)


o x
o x
13 14
15 16
16. Closed Hi-Hat (foot) 13. Open Hi-Hat (with stick)
14. Closed Hi-Hat (with stick)
15 Open Hi-Hat (foot)
Drum Music Notation Example
o x
Below, arranged on the Staff, we have an illustration of some drum notation.
,.
.

o x
Below, arranged on the Staff, we have an illustration of some drum notation.

Copyright 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved

Drum Learn Fast Groove Builder
Reader Builder 1
- Quarter, Eighth, & 2 Beat Notes
4
Click Count
1 2 3 4
The Quarter Note Pulse (Quarter Notes) - Ex 1 & 2
The Quarter Note is the rhythmic pulse of most popular music. It is that to which you tap your foot or clap your hands. On the drum kit this pulse is often
played between the kick and snare drum, while the hi-hat or ride cymbal plays the subdivision notes. In this first exercise we will play the quarter note pulse
on the snare drum alternating the hands in the form of a single stroke roll: R L R L ... First, play the 1 bar exercise at a moderate tempo (not too fast and not
too slow) making sure the time duration between each stroke is even. In Ex 2 we will introduce the quarter note rest. In this exercise the rest is placed on
beats 2 and 4. Here we will play beats 1 and 3 and count the rests on beats 2 and 4.
,.
.

Click Count
1 2 3 4
The Quarter Note Pulse (Quarter Notes) - Ex 1 & 2
The Quarter Note is the rhythmic pulse of most popular music. It is that to which you tap your foot or clap your hands. On the drum kit this pulse is often
played between the kick and snare drum, while the hi-hat or ride cymbal plays the subdivision notes. In this first exercise we will play the quarter note pulse
on the snare drum alternating the hands in the form of a single stroke roll: R L R L ... First, play the 1 bar exercise at a moderate tempo (not too fast and not
too slow) making sure the time duration between each stroke is even. In Ex 2 we will introduce the quarter note rest. In this exercise the rest is placed on
beats 2 and 4. Here we will play beats 1 and 3 and count the rests on beats 2 and 4.
1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4
Ex 1
R L R L R R

1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4
Ex 1
R L R L R R
Ex 2
,.
.

Ex 2
Click Count
1 2 3 4
The Eighth Note Subdivision (Eighth Notes) - Ex 3
In popular music, eighth note subdivisions are usually played on the hi-hat. This is especially the case in styles such as rock, funk and ballads.
An eighth note hi-hat or cymbal pattern helps to keep the kick and snare punctuations in steady time.
When two or more eighth notes are written, they are very often joined together by a 'beam' which is placed across the top of the notes. Eighth notes
are written using a single beam. As with the quarter notes, we will play through the eighth note exercise using the single stroke roll: R L R L...Play
the right stick on beats 1,2,3 and 4 (which are known as the 'Downbeats') and the left stick on the 'an' of beats 1,2,3 and 4 (which are known as 'Upbeats'
or 'Offbeats').
,.
.

Click Count
1 2 3 4
The Eighth Note Subdivision (Eighth Notes) - Ex 3
In popular music, eighth note subdivisions are usually played on the hi-hat. This is especially the case in styles such as rock, funk and ballads.
An eighth note hi-hat or cymbal pattern helps to keep the kick and snare punctuations in steady time.
When two or more eighth notes are written, they are very often joined together by a 'beam' which is placed across the top of the notes. Eighth notes
are written using a single beam. As with the quarter notes, we will play through the eighth note exercise using the single stroke roll: R L R L...Play
the right stick on beats 1,2,3 and 4 (which are known as the 'Downbeats') and the left stick on the 'an' of beats 1,2,3 and 4 (which are known as 'Upbeats'
or 'Offbeats').
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Ex 3
R L R L R L R L R L L R L R L

1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Ex 3
R L R L R L R L R L L R L R L
Ex 4
,.
.

Ex 4
Click Count
1 2 3 4
Eighth Notes & Rests - Ex 4
When an eighth note is written as a single note, it is tagged with what's known as a 'Flag'. If you look at the 'an' of 2 in exercise 2, above, you will see what
an eighth note with a 'flag' looks like. An eighth note rest is placed on beat 2 in the same exercise; it looks a little like the number '7'. Play through the exercise
with a single stroke roll as indicated by the sticking below the notation.
,.
.

Click Count
1 2 3 4
Eighth Notes & Rests - Ex 4
When an eighth note is written as a single note, it is tagged with what's known as a 'Flag'. If you look at the 'an' of 2 in exercise 2, above, you will see what
an eighth note with a 'flag' looks like. An eighth note rest is placed on beat 2 in the same exercise; it looks a little like the number '7'. Play through the exercise
with a single stroke roll as indicated by the sticking below the notation.
R L L R R R L R L L R
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Ex 5
Quarter and Eighth Notes / Rests - Ex 5
Here we will mix together in a 2 bar phrase, the notes and rests we have looked at thus far. We will use an eighth note count to help us play through both bars,
as this covers all the sudivisions of the notes we are using. You can play through the exercise with one hand at first, until you become familiar with the rhythm.

R L L R R R L R L L R
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Ex 5
Quarter and Eighth Notes / Rests - Ex 5
Here we will mix together in a 2 bar phrase, the notes and rests we have looked at thus far. We will use an eighth note count to help us play through both bars,
as this covers all the sudivisions of the notes we are using. You can play through the exercise with one hand at first, until you become familiar with the rhythm.

Click Count
1 2 3 4
2 Beat Notes & Rests (Minims) - Ex 6
A 2 beat note is worth 2 quarter note beats. If you look at one of the 2 beat notes you will see that the note head is not filled in.
A 2 beat rest is a small rectangular block that sits on the Staff line. You can see an example of a 2 beat rest on the first beat of
the second bar. We will count the quarter note pulse through the exercise. As these notes are of long duration, play through the
exercise with one hand.
,.
.

Click Count
1 2 3 4
2 Beat Notes & Rests (Minims) - Ex 6
A 2 beat note is worth 2 quarter note beats. If you look at one of the 2 beat notes you will see that the note head is not filled in.
A 2 beat rest is a small rectangular block that sits on the Staff line. You can see an example of a 2 beat rest on the first beat of
the second bar. We will count the quarter note pulse through the exercise. As these notes are of long duration, play through the
exercise with one hand.
1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4
Ex 6

1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4
Ex 6
.

Click Count
1 2 3 4
Quarter Notes, Eighth Notes, and 2 Beat Notes - Ex 7
Now we will put together what we've learned from the previous six exercises. I would play through this final three bar exercise with one hand, so you can
concentrate on playing the correct time duration for each of the notes. For most of this exercise, we will use a quarter note count, apart from when eighth
notes are played. In the exercise we will use this count for the 'an' of 4 in bar two and the 'an' of 2 in bar 3.
,.
.

Click Count
1 2 3 4
Quarter Notes, Eighth Notes, and 2 Beat Notes - Ex 7
Now we will put together what we've learned from the previous six exercises. I would play through this final three bar exercise with one hand, so you can
concentrate on playing the correct time duration for each of the notes. For most of this exercise, we will use a quarter note count, apart from when eighth
notes are played. In the exercise we will use this count for the 'an' of 4 in bar two and the 'an' of 2 in bar 3.
1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 an 1 2 an 3 4
Ex 7

1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 an 1 2 an 3 4
Ex 7

.

Copyright Drum Learn 2009 All Rights Reserved

Drum Learn
Fast Groove Builder
Reader Builder 2
5
- Quarter & Eighth Note Mix
Click Count
1 2 3 4
Quarter & Eighth Notes - Ex 8
Here are some examples of combinations of quarter and eighth notes. At first, play through the exercises with one hand, then alternate hands.
In the first sticking example the right hand plays all the downbeats, while the left plays upbeats. In the second sticking, we will try to play
alternate hands through the two bars.
4
4

Click Count
1 2 3 4
Quarter & Eighth Notes - Ex 8
Here are some examples of combinations of quarter and eighth notes. At first, play through the exercises with one hand, then alternate hands.
In the first sticking example the right hand plays all the downbeats, while the left plays upbeats. In the second sticking, we will try to play
alternate hands through the two bars.
1 2 an 3 an 4 1 an 2 an 3 an 4
R R L R L R R L R L R L R
R L R L R L R L R L R L R
Ex 8

1 2 an 3 an 4 1 an 2 an 3 an 4
R R L R L R R L R L R L R
R L R L R L R L R L R L R
Ex 8

Click Count
Quarter & Eighth Notes - Ex 9
1 2 3 4
4
4

Click Count
Quarter & Eighth Notes - Ex 9
1 2 3 4
Ex 9
1 an 2 3 4 1 an 2 3 an 4 an
R L R R R R L R R L R L
R L R L R L R L R L R L

Ex 9
1 an 2 3 4 1 an 2 3 an 4 an
R L R R R R L R R L R L
R L R L R L R L R L R L

Click Count
Quarters, Eighths & Eighth Note Rests - Ex 10
In this excerise we will introduce the term, 'syncopation'. Syncopation generally refers to mixed
upbeat and downbeat rhythms. The first bar of the exercise is an example of this type of rhythm.
1 2 3 4
4
4

Click Count
Quarters, Eighths & Eighth Note Rests - Ex 10
In this excerise we will introduce the term, 'syncopation'. Syncopation generally refers to mixed
upbeat and downbeat rhythms. The first bar of the exercise is an example of this type of rhythm.
1 2 3 4
1 an 2 an 3 4 1 an 2 3 an 4
R L R L R L R L R L R
R L L R R R L R R L R
Ex 10

1 an 2 an 3 4 1 an 2 3 an 4
R L R L R L R L R L R
R L L R R R L R R L R
Ex 10

Click Count
1 2 3 4
Quarters, Eighths & Quarter Note Rests - Ex 11
Continuing the syncopation theme, we will now play this type of rhythm across the bar line, creating a latin feel.
4
4

Click Count
1 2 3 4
Quarters, Eighths & Quarter Note Rests - Ex 11
Continuing the syncopation theme, we will now play this type of rhythm across the bar line, creating a latin feel.
1 2 3 an 4 an 1 2 an 3 an 4
R R L L R R L L
Ex 11

1 2 3 an 4 an 1 2 an 3 an 4
R R L L R R L L
Ex 11

Click Count
Note Mix - Ex 12
In this final exercise we will play a 4 bar phrase using quarter and eighth notes. To begin with, play through it with one hand; then try alternate strokes.
1 2 3 4
4
4

Click Count
Note Mix - Ex 12
In this final exercise we will play a 4 bar phrase using quarter and eighth notes. To begin with, play through it with one hand; then try alternate strokes.
1 2 3 4
Ex 12
1 2 3 an 4 1 an 2 3 4 an 1 2 an 3 an 4 1 an 2 3 4

Ex 12
1 2 3 an 4 1 an 2 3 4 an 1 2 an 3 an 4 1 an 2 3 4

Copyright Drum Learn 2009 All Rights Reserved

Drum Learn
Rudiments Builder
Fast Groove Builder
6
- Single & Double Strokes
Single Paradiddle
Click Count
1 2 3 4
Single Stroke Roll - Ex 13
The Single Stroke Roll is usually the first rudiment (elementary stroke) that is taught. It is a simple pattern of alternating the right and left hands.
When playing the roll, try leading with both the right and left hands. This way you will gain a feel for playing left hand lead. Along with the hands
we will play an alternating quarter note pattern between the kick and hi-hat foot. When you close the hi-hat cymbals with your foot, make sure they
they don't ring or splash open. Firstly, play through the exercise without the kick and hi-hat foot. Then add the kick and hi-hat foot when you have
developed a feel for the roll.
4
4

Click Count
1 2 3 4
Single Stroke Roll - Ex 13
The Single Stroke Roll is usually the first rudiment (elementary stroke) that is taught. It is a simple pattern of alternating the right and left hands.
When playing the roll, try leading with both the right and left hands. This way you will gain a feel for playing left hand lead. Along with the hands
we will play an alternating quarter note pattern between the kick and hi-hat foot. When you close the hi-hat cymbals with your foot, make sure they
they don't ring or splash open. Firstly, play through the exercise without the kick and hi-hat foot. Then add the kick and hi-hat foot when you have
developed a feel for the roll.
R L R L R L R L R L R L R L R L
Ex 13

R L R L R L R L R L R L R L R L
Ex 13

Click Count
1 2 3 4
Double Stroke Roll - Ex 14
The Double Stroke Roll is two strokes played with one hand, followed by two strokes with the other hand. Marching snare drummers
or Pipe band drummers play many variations of this rudiment (5 stroke, 6 stroke, 7 stroke rolls etc) in their compositions.
To begin with, play through the exercise without the kick and hi-hat foot.
4
4

Click Count
1 2 3 4
Double Stroke Roll - Ex 14
The Double Stroke Roll is two strokes played with one hand, followed by two strokes with the other hand. Marching snare drummers
or Pipe band drummers play many variations of this rudiment (5 stroke, 6 stroke, 7 stroke rolls etc) in their compositions.
To begin with, play through the exercise without the kick and hi-hat foot.
R R L L R R L L R R L L R R L L
Ex 14

R R L L R R L L R R L L R R L L
Ex 14

Click Count
1 2 3 4
Single Paradiddle - Ex 15
The Single Paradiddle is a combination of the Single and Double Stroke Rolls. Here we have two single strokes (R L)
followed by a double stroke (R R). The first note of each paradiddle is marked with an accent. This means to play the
first note louder than the non-accented notes. Try playing through the exercise both with and without the accent.
4
4

Click Count
1 2 3 4
Single Paradiddle - Ex 15
The Single Paradiddle is a combination of the Single and Double Stroke Rolls. Here we have two single strokes (R L)
followed by a double stroke (R R). The first note of each paradiddle is marked with an accent. This means to play the
first note louder than the non-accented notes. Try playing through the exercise both with and without the accent.
R L R R L R L L R L R R L R L L
Ex 15

R L R R L R L L R L R R L R L L
Ex 15

Click Count
1 2 3 4
Single & Double Stroke Roll - Ex 16
We will now put the Single and Double Stroke Roll together. It is important to pay attention to the rhythm and sound
that you make when switching from single stroke to double stroke. Maintaining good consistancy of feel and sound
is important.
4
4

Click Count
1 2 3 4
Single & Double Stroke Roll - Ex 16
We will now put the Single and Double Stroke Roll together. It is important to pay attention to the rhythm and sound
that you make when switching from single stroke to double stroke. Maintaining good consistancy of feel and sound
is important.
R L R L R L R L R R L L R R L L
Ex 16

R L R L R L R L R R L L R R L L
Ex 16

Click Count
1 2 3 4
Singles, Doubles, & Single Paradiddle - Ex 17
Here we will put all three rudiments together in a 3 bar sequence. Remember to work on stroke accuracy and sound.
Stay relaxed so that your finger, hand and arm muscles can work well for you.
4
4

Click Count
1 2 3 4
Singles, Doubles, & Single Paradiddle - Ex 17
Here we will put all three rudiments together in a 3 bar sequence. Remember to work on stroke accuracy and sound.
Stay relaxed so that your finger, hand and arm muscles can work well for you.
R L R L R L R L R R L L R R L L R L R R L R L L
Single Stroke Double Stroke Single Paradiddle
Ex 17

R L R L R L R L R R L L R R L L R L R R L R L L
Single Stroke Double Stroke Single Paradiddle
Ex 17

Copyright 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved

Drum Learn
Groove Builder 1
Fast Groove Builder
7
- Quarter Notes on the hi-hat
Click Count
1 2 3 4
1 We will begin with a simple rock beat. The hi-hat is played
on all four beats of the bar. The snare is played on beats
2 & 4, while the kick drum is played on beats 1 & 3.
To start with, play the groove at a moderate tempo.
4
4

Click Count
1 2 3 4
1 We will begin with a simple rock beat. The hi-hat is played
on all four beats of the bar. The snare is played on beats
2 & 4, while the kick drum is played on beats 1 & 3.
To start with, play the groove at a moderate tempo.
hi-hat
snare
kick
Ex 1
1 2 3 4

hi-hat
snare
kick
Ex 1
1 2 3 4 Click Count
2 Here we will add a second 'kick'
on the 'an' of beats 1 & 3.
4
4

Click Count
2 Here we will add a second 'kick'
on the 'an' of beats 1 & 3.
Ex 2
1 an 2 3 an 4

Ex 2
1 an 2 3 an 4
Click Count
3 Now we will play what is sometimes referred to as
'4 on the floor'. Here you can see that the kick drum
is played on every quarter beat together with the
hi-hat.
4
4

Click Count
3 Now we will play what is sometimes referred to as
'4 on the floor'. Here you can see that the kick drum
is played on every quarter beat together with the
hi-hat.
Ex 3
1 2 3 4

Ex 3
1 2 3 4
Click Count
4 This is an eighth note workout on the kick drum. Here the kick drum is
played on every eighth note within the bar: 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
4
4

Click Count
4 This is an eighth note workout on the kick drum. Here the kick drum is
played on every eighth note within the bar: 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Ex 4
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an

Ex 4
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Click Count
5 Often, this kick rhythm is one of the most difficult of the
starter beats. It is the offbeat 'kick' on the 'an' of 2 & 4 that
takes a little patience to master.
4
4

Click Count
5 Often, this kick rhythm is one of the most difficult of the
starter beats. It is the offbeat 'kick' on the 'an' of 2 & 4 that
takes a little patience to master.
1 2 an 3 4 an
Ex 5

1 2 an 3 4 an
Ex 5
Click Count
6 With this rhythm, the kick drum is played
on the 'an' of each quarter beat.
4
4

Click Count
6 With this rhythm, the kick drum is played
on the 'an' of each quarter beat.
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Ex 6

1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Ex 6
Click Count
7 Here we have the first of the snare drum variations.
We will play an extra snare note on the 'an' of 2 & 4.
4
4

Click Count
7 Here we have the first of the snare drum variations.
We will play an extra snare note on the 'an' of 2 & 4.
1 2 an 3 4 an
Ex 7

1 2 an 3 4 an
Ex 7
Click Count
8 We will add a snare note on the 'an' of 1 & 3.
The hi-hat is played on every quarter note.
4
4

Click Count
8 We will add a snare note on the 'an' of 1 & 3.
The hi-hat is played on every quarter note.
1 an 2 3 an 4
Ex 8

1 an 2 3 an 4
Ex 8
Click Count
9 Here we will further develop our left hand on the snare.
We will play three eighth notes in a row from the 'an' of
beat 1 to the 'an' of beat 2. This can be tricky to begin
with. Take your time and you will master it!
4
4

Click Count
9 Here we will further develop our left hand on the snare.
We will play three eighth notes in a row from the 'an' of
beat 1 to the 'an' of beat 2. This can be tricky to begin
with. Take your time and you will master it!
1 an 2 an 3 4
Ex 9

1 an 2 an 3 4
Ex 9
Click Count
10 This groove is a combination of grooves 7 & 8 with groove 9
- a good challenge to finish Groove Builder 1.
4
4

Click Count
10 This groove is a combination of grooves 7 & 8 with groove 9
- a good challenge to finish Groove Builder 1.
1 2 an 3 an 4 1 an 2 an 3 4
Ex 10

1 2 an 3 an 4 1 an 2 an 3 4
Ex 10

Copyright 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved

Drum Learn Fast Groove Builder
Groove Builder 2
8
- Eighth Notes on the hi-hat
Click Count
1 A simple eighth note rock beat.
1 2 3 4
4
4

Click Count
1 A simple eighth note rock beat.
1 2 3 4
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Ex 11
With Groove Builder 2 we will play eighth notes on the hi-hat with all the kick drum patterns that we used in Groove Builder 1. By playing eighth notes on
the hi-hat we are now playing the upbeats (the 'an') of every quarter note beat. If you like, you can play a slight accent on beats 1, 2, 3 and 4, to emphasize
the quarter note pulse. This is the way most drummers play eighth notes on the hi-hat.

1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Ex 11
With Groove Builder 2 we will play eighth notes on the hi-hat with all the kick drum patterns that we used in Groove Builder 1. By playing eighth notes on
the hi-hat we are now playing the upbeats (the 'an') of every quarter note beat. If you like, you can play a slight accent on beats 1, 2, 3 and 4, to emphasize
the quarter note pulse. This is the way most drummers play eighth notes on the hi-hat.
Click Count
2 Add a 'kick' on the 'an' of beat 1 & 3.
4
4

Click Count
2 Add a 'kick' on the 'an' of beat 1 & 3.
1 an 2 3 an 4
Ex 12

1 an 2 3 an 4
Ex 12
Click Count
3 "4-on-the-Floor"
4
4

Click Count
3 "4-on-the-Floor"
1 2 3 4
Ex 13

1 2 3 4
Ex 13
Click Count
4 Kick drum plays on every eighth note.
4
4

Click Count
4 Kick drum plays on every eighth note.
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Ex 14

1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Ex 14
Click Count
5 Upbeat kick on the 'an' of beats 2 & 4.
4
4

Click Count
5 Upbeat kick on the 'an' of beats 2 & 4.
1 2 an 3 4 an
Ex 15

1 2 an 3 4 an
Ex 15
Click Count
6 Kick drum is played on the 'an' of each quarter beat.
4
4

Click Count
6 Kick drum is played on the 'an' of each quarter beat.
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Ex 16

1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Ex 16
Click Count
7 Add a snare on the 'an' of beats 2 & 4.
4
4

Click Count
7 Add a snare on the 'an' of beats 2 & 4.
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Ex 17

1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Ex 17
Click Count
8 Add a snare on the 'an' of beats 1 & 3.
4
4

Click Count
8 Add a snare on the 'an' of beats 1 & 3.
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Ex 18

1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Ex 18
Click Count
9 One for developing the left hand.
4
4

Click Count
9 One for developing the left hand.
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Ex 19

1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Ex 19
Click Count
10 A combination of grooves 7, 8 and 9.
4
4

Click Count
10 A combination of grooves 7, 8 and 9.
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Ex 20

1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Ex 20

Copyright 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved

Drum Learn Fast Groove Builder
Groove Builder 3
9
- Upbeat Eighth Notes
on the hi-hat
Click Count
1 This is a dance or disco style beat.
1 2 3 4
4
4

Click Count
1 This is a dance or disco style beat.
1 2 3 4
Ex 21
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
With Groove Builder 3 we will now play an upbeat hi-hat pattern with all the kick drum rhythms from Groove Builder 1. You have a choice how you play
this hi-hat rhythm: you can either tap the hi-hat on the top of the cymbal with the tip of the stick, or strike it on the side with the shoulder of the stick. You
can use both techniques for soft and loud volume levels: top of the hi-hat for soft; side of the hi-hat for medium to loud volume levels.

Ex 21
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
With Groove Builder 3 we will now play an upbeat hi-hat pattern with all the kick drum rhythms from Groove Builder 1. You have a choice how you play
this hi-hat rhythm: you can either tap the hi-hat on the top of the cymbal with the tip of the stick, or strike it on the side with the shoulder of the stick. You
can use both techniques for soft and loud volume levels: top of the hi-hat for soft; side of the hi-hat for medium to loud volume levels.
Click Count
2 Add a second kick note on the 'an' of beats 1 & 3.
4
4

Click Count
2 Add a second kick note on the 'an' of beats 1 & 3.
1 an 2 3 an 4
Ex 22

1 an 2 3 an 4
Ex 22
Click Count
3 "4-on-the-Floor"
4
4

Click Count
3 "4-on-the-Floor"
Ex 23
1 2 3 4

Ex 23
1 2 3 4
Click Count
4 Kick drum is played on every eighth note.
4
4

Click Count
4 Kick drum is played on every eighth note.
Ex 24
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an

Ex 24
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Click Count
5 Played with an upbeat hi hat pattern,
the kick rhythm is more challenging.
4
4

Click Count
5 Played with an upbeat hi hat pattern,
the kick rhythm is more challenging.
Ex 25
1 2 an 3 4 an

Ex 25
1 2 an 3 4 an
Click Count
6 Here the kick drum is played on all the
upbeat eighths, together with the hi-hat.
4
4

Click Count
6 Here the kick drum is played on all the
upbeat eighths, together with the hi-hat.
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Ex 26

1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Ex 26
Click Count
7 Add a snare note on the 'an' of beats 2 & 4.
4
4

Click Count
7 Add a snare note on the 'an' of beats 2 & 4.
Ex 27
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an

Ex 27
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Click Count
8 Add a snare note on the 'an' of beats 1 & 3.
4
4

Click Count
8 Add a snare note on the 'an' of beats 1 & 3.
Ex 28
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an

Ex 28
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Click Count
9 Working the left hand, again.
4
4

Click Count
9 Working the left hand, again.
Ex 29
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an

Ex 29
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an
Click Count
10 Putting it together: Grooves 7,8 and 9.
4
4

Click Count
10 Putting it together: Grooves 7,8 and 9.
Ex 30
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an

Ex 30
1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an

Copyright 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved

Drum Learn
Fast Groove Builder
10
Groove Builder 4
- Kick & Snare Mix
Click Count
1 First up we have a driving rock feel.
Play this one with great intensity.
4
4

Click Count
1 First up we have a driving rock feel.
Play this one with great intensity.
Ex 1

Ex 1
Click Count
2 Next up is a funk/hip-hop feel with
the emphasis on punchy upbeat kick's.
4
4

Click Count
2 Next up is a funk/hip-hop feel with
the emphasis on punchy upbeat kick's.
Ex 2

Ex 2
Click Count
3 This is a funky beat with a more spacious feel. The
space is created through leaving a gap on the kick
in the middle of the bar.
4
4

Click Count
3 This is a funky beat with a more spacious feel. The
space is created through leaving a gap on the kick
in the middle of the bar.
Ex 3

Ex 3
Click Count
4 If we add a couple of upbeat snare notes on the
'an' of 3 & 4, we get a kind of suspended feeling
in the second half of the bar.
4
4

Click Count
4 If we add a couple of upbeat snare notes on the
'an' of 3 & 4, we get a kind of suspended feeling
in the second half of the bar.
Ex 4

Ex 4
Click Count
5 With the upbeat snare note on the 'an' of 3 we
get a nice rounded feel to the end of the bar.
4
4

Click Count
5 With the upbeat snare note on the 'an' of 3 we
get a nice rounded feel to the end of the bar.
Ex 5

Ex 5
Click Count
6 If we place an upbeat snare on the 'an' of 3
and rest on beat 4 we get a feeling of being
suspended on the edge of a cliff.
4
4

Click Count
6 If we place an upbeat snare on the 'an' of 3
and rest on beat 4 we get a feeling of being
suspended on the edge of a cliff.
Ex 6

Ex 6
Click Count
7 This is a half-time groove. 'Half-time' means that the snare drum
backbeat is played on beat 3, instead of the usual 2 & 4. This has
the effect of cutting the tempo by half. The kick drum is played
on beat 1.
4
4

Click Count
7 This is a half-time groove. 'Half-time' means that the snare drum
backbeat is played on beat 3, instead of the usual 2 & 4. This has
the effect of cutting the tempo by half. The kick drum is played
on beat 1.
Ex 7

Ex 7
Click Count
8 Next we will add a kick on the 'an' of 1.
This adds more 'beef' to the feel.
4
4

Click Count
8 Next we will add a kick on the 'an' of 1.
This adds more 'beef' to the feel.
Ex 8

Ex 8
Click Count
9 This one has a more funky feel to it. Here we
have an upbeat kick on the 'an' of beat 2.
4
4

Click Count
9 This one has a more funky feel to it. Here we
have an upbeat kick on the 'an' of beat 2.
Ex 9

Ex 9
Click Count
10 If we add a kick on the 'an' of 1
we get a heavier funk feel.
4
4

Click Count
10 If we add a kick on the 'an' of 1
we get a heavier funk feel.
Ex 10

Ex 10
Click Count
11 Getting heavier with this one.
This has a funky rock feel. Play
this one with great intensity.
4
4

Click Count
11 Getting heavier with this one.
This has a funky rock feel. Play
this one with great intensity.
Ex 11

Ex 11
Click Count
12 To finish, I think it would be good to try
out a two bar pattern with the half-time feel.
4
4

Click Count
12 To finish, I think it would be good to try
out a two bar pattern with the half-time feel.
Ex 12

Ex 12

Copyright 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved

Drum Learn
Fast Groove Builder
Groove Builder 5
11
- Kick & Snare Mix 2
Click Count
1 First up we have a hard driving rock feel.
Play this one with great intensity.
4
4

Click Count
1 First up we have a hard driving rock feel.
Play this one with great intensity.
Ex 13

Ex 13
Click Count
2 Next up is a funk/hip-hop feel with
the emphasis on punchy upbeat kick's.
4
4

Click Count
2 Next up is a funk/hip-hop feel with
the emphasis on punchy upbeat kick's.
Ex 14

Ex 14
Click Count
3 This is a funky beat with a more spacious feel. The
space is created through leaving a gap on the kick
in the middle of the bar.
4
4

Click Count
3 This is a funky beat with a more spacious feel. The
space is created through leaving a gap on the kick
in the middle of the bar.
Ex 15

Ex 15
Click Count
4 If we add a couple of upbeat snare notes on the
'an' of 3 & 4, we get a kind of suspended feeling
in the second half of the bar.
4
4

Click Count
4 If we add a couple of upbeat snare notes on the
'an' of 3 & 4, we get a kind of suspended feeling
in the second half of the bar.
Ex 16

Ex 16
Click Count
5 With the upbeat snare note on the 'an' of 3 we
get a nice rounded feel to the end of the bar.
4
4

Click Count
5 With the upbeat snare note on the 'an' of 3 we
get a nice rounded feel to the end of the bar.
Ex 17

Ex 17
Click Count
6 If we place an upbeat snare on the 'an' of 3
and rest on beat 4 we get a feeling of being
suspended on the edge of a cliff.
4
4

Click Count
6 If we place an upbeat snare on the 'an' of 3
and rest on beat 4 we get a feeling of being
suspended on the edge of a cliff.
Ex 18

Ex 18
Click Count
7 This is a half-time groove. 'Half-time' means that the snare
drum backbeat is played on beat 3, instead of the usual
2 & 4. This has the effect of cutting the tempo by half.
Kick drum is played on the first beat.
4
4

Click Count
7 This is a half-time groove. 'Half-time' means that the snare
drum backbeat is played on beat 3, instead of the usual
2 & 4. This has the effect of cutting the tempo by half.
Kick drum is played on the first beat.
Ex 19

Ex 19
Click Count
8 Next we will add a kick on the 'an' of 1.
This adds more 'beef' to the feel.
4
4

Click Count
8 Next we will add a kick on the 'an' of 1.
This adds more 'beef' to the feel.
Ex 20

Ex 20
Click Count
9 This one has a more funky feel to it.
Here we have an upbeat kick on the
'an' of beat 2.
4
4

Click Count
9 This one has a more funky feel to it.
Here we have an upbeat kick on the
'an' of beat 2.
Ex 21

Ex 21
Click Count
10 If we add a kick on the 'an' of 1
we get a heavier funk feel.
4
4

Click Count
10 If we add a kick on the 'an' of 1
we get a heavier funk feel.
Ex 22

Ex 22
Click Count
11 Getting heavier with this one. This has
a funky rock feel. Play this one with
great intensity.
4
4

Click Count
11 Getting heavier with this one. This has
a funky rock feel. Play this one with
great intensity.
Ex 23

Ex 23
Click Count
12 To finish, I think it would be good to try
out a two bar pattern with the half-time feel.
4
4

Click Count
12 To finish, I think it would be good to try
out a two bar pattern with the half-time feel.
Ex 24

Ex 24

Copyright 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved

Drum Learn
Fast Groove Builder
Groove Builder 6
12
- Kick & Snare Mix 3
Click Count
1 Driving rock feel.
Play this one with great intensity.
, .
.

Click Count
1 Driving rock feel.
Play this one with great intensity.
Ex 25

Ex 25
Click Count
2 Next up is a funk/hip-hop feel with
the emphasis on punchy upbeat kick's.
, .
.

Click Count
2 Next up is a funk/hip-hop feel with
the emphasis on punchy upbeat kick's.
Ex 26

Ex 26
Click Count
3 This is a funky beat with a more spacious feel. The
space is created through leaving a gap on the kick
in the middle of the bar.
, .
.

Click Count
3 This is a funky beat with a more spacious feel. The
space is created through leaving a gap on the kick
in the middle of the bar.
Ex 27

Ex 27
Click Count
4 If we add a couple of upbeat snare notes on the
'an' of 3 & 4, we get a kind of suspended feeling
in the second half of the bar.
, .
.

Click Count
4 If we add a couple of upbeat snare notes on the
'an' of 3 & 4, we get a kind of suspended feeling
in the second half of the bar.
Ex 28

Ex 28
Click Count
5 With the upbeat snare hit on the 'an' of 3 we
get a nice rounded feel to the end of the bar.
, .
.

Click Count
5 With the upbeat snare hit on the 'an' of 3 we
get a nice rounded feel to the end of the bar.
Ex 29

Ex 29
Click Count
6 If we place an upbeat snare on the 'an' of 3
and rest on beat 4 we get a feeling of being
suspended on the edge of a cliff.
, .
.

Click Count
6 If we place an upbeat snare on the 'an' of 3
and rest on beat 4 we get a feeling of being
suspended on the edge of a cliff.
Ex 30

Ex 30
Click Count
7 A simple kick pattern to start the half-time groove section.
, .
.

Click Count
7 A simple kick pattern to start the half-time groove section.
Ex 31

Ex 31
Click Count
8 Next we will add a kick on the 'an' of 1.
This adds more 'beef' to the feel.
, .
.

Click Count
8 Next we will add a kick on the 'an' of 1.
This adds more 'beef' to the feel.
Ex 32

Ex 32
Click Count
9 This one has a more funky feel to it.
Here we have an upbeat kick on the
'an' of beat 2.
, .
.

Click Count
9 This one has a more funky feel to it.
Here we have an upbeat kick on the
'an' of beat 2.
Ex 33

Ex 33
Click Count
10 If we add a kick on the 'an' of 1
we get a heavier funk feel.
, .
.

Click Count
10 If we add a kick on the 'an' of 1
we get a heavier funk feel.
Ex 34

Ex 34
Click Count
11 Getting heavier with this one.
This has a funky rock feel. Play
this one with great intensity.
, .
.

Click Count
11 Getting heavier with this one.
This has a funky rock feel. Play
this one with great intensity.
Ex 35

Ex 35
Click Count
12 To finish we have a two bar pattern with the half-time feel.
, .
.

Click Count
12 To finish we have a two bar pattern with the half-time feel.
Ex 36

Ex 36

Copyright 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved

Drum Learn Fast Groove Builder
Fill-in Builder 1
- Single Strokes
13
Click Count
Fill-in 1
We'll start by playing two eighth notes on each drum,
starting on the snare drum and moving round the toms.
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 1
We'll start by playing two eighth notes on each drum,
starting on the snare drum and moving round the toms.
R L R L R L R L
Ex 1

R L R L R L R L
Ex 1 Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 1
Now we will play the fill-in with a quarter note rock groove. This
will give us some idea of how the fill sounds preceded by a rock beat.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 1
Now we will play the fill-in with a quarter note rock groove. This
will give us some idea of how the fill sounds preceded by a rock beat.
Ex 2

Ex 2

Click Count
Fill-in 2
Next we will play two strokes on the snare followed
by 2 strokes on the first tom. Repeat this on beats
3 & 4 using the 3rd tom (Floor Tom).
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 2
Next we will play two strokes on the snare followed
by 2 strokes on the first tom. Repeat this on beats
3 & 4 using the 3rd tom (Floor Tom).
R L R L R L R L
Ex 3

R L R L R L R L
Ex 3
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 2
This time we will play an eighth note
rock beat together with the fill.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 2
This time we will play an eighth note
rock beat together with the fill.
Ex 4

Ex 4

Click Count
Fill-in 3
Now let's try playing the first note on the first tom;
then 3 strokes on the snare. Repeat this using the 3rd
tom (floor tom) on beats 3 & 4.
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 3
Now let's try playing the first note on the first tom;
then 3 strokes on the snare. Repeat this using the 3rd
tom (floor tom) on beats 3 & 4.
R L R L R L R L
Ex 5

R L R L R L R L
Ex 5
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 3
With this fill-in we will play another rock beat;
this time with a more funky feel.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 3
With this fill-in we will play another rock beat;
this time with a more funky feel.
Ex 6

Ex 6

Click Count
Fill-in 4
This time the right hand plays around the toms,
while the left hand remains on the snare.
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 4
This time the right hand plays around the toms,
while the left hand remains on the snare.
R L R L R L R L
Ex 7

R L R L R L R L
Ex 7
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 8
Here we have an upbeat hi-hat rhythm.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 8
Here we have an upbeat hi-hat rhythm.
Ex 8

Ex 8

Click Count
Fill-in 5
With this fill-in, we will move the left hand up to the
first and second toms on the 'an' of 1 & 3. The right
hand starts the fill on the snare drum.
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 5
With this fill-in, we will move the left hand up to the
first and second toms on the 'an' of 1 & 3. The right
hand starts the fill on the snare drum.
R L R L R L R L
Ex 9

R L R L R L R L
Ex 9
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 5
It works well if we add a half-time groove with this fill-in.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 5
It works well if we add a half-time groove with this fill-in.
Ex 10

Ex 10

Click Count
Fill-in 6
To finish this page, we will now place the right
hand on the toms on beats 2 & 4, imitating the
snare drum backbeat.
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 6
To finish this page, we will now place the right
hand on the toms on beats 2 & 4, imitating the
snare drum backbeat.
R L R L R L R L
Ex 11

R L R L R L R L
Ex 11
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 6
This rhythm is an upbeat hi-hat pattern
combined with a half-time snare backbeat.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 6
This rhythm is an upbeat hi-hat pattern
combined with a half-time snare backbeat.
Ex 12

Ex 12

Copyright 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved

Drum Learn
Fast Groove Builder
Fill-in Builder 2
- Double Strokes
14
Click Count
Fill-in 1
We'll start by playing 2 eighth notes on each drum, starting
on the snare drum and then moving round the toms.
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 1
We'll start by playing 2 eighth notes on each drum, starting
on the snare drum and then moving round the toms.
R R L L R R L L
Ex 13

R R L L R R L L
Ex 13
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 1
Now we will play the fill-in with a quarter note rock groove.
This will give us some idea of how the fill sounds played with a beat.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 1
Now we will play the fill-in with a quarter note rock groove.
This will give us some idea of how the fill sounds played with a beat.
Ex 14

Ex 14

Click Count
Fill-in 2
Next we will play two strokes on each of the
four drums starting on the second tom.
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 2
Next we will play two strokes on each of the
four drums starting on the second tom.
R R L L R R L L
Ex 15

R R L L R R L L
Ex 15
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 2
This time we will play an eighth note
rock beat together with the fill-in.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 2
This time we will play an eighth note
rock beat together with the fill-in.
Ex 16

Ex 16

Click Count
Fill-in 3
Here we will play a double stroke with one hand between
two drums. This is a great technique to use for playing fast doubles
around the kit. It is a sweeping motion that is played down from the
toms to the snare or across from the snare to the 3rd tom (Floor tom).
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 3
Here we will play a double stroke with one hand between
two drums. This is a great technique to use for playing fast doubles
around the kit. It is a sweeping motion that is played down from the
toms to the snare or across from the snare to the 3rd tom (Floor tom).
R R L L R R L L
Ex 17

R R L L R R L L
Ex 17
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 3
With this fill-in we will play a heavy driving rock beat.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 3
With this fill-in we will play a heavy driving rock beat.
Ex 18

Ex 18

Click Count
Fill-in 4
This time the right hand plays around the toms,
while the left hand remains on the snare.
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 4
This time the right hand plays around the toms,
while the left hand remains on the snare.
R R L L R R L L
Ex 19

R R L L R R L L
Ex 19
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 8
We'll use a quarter note pattern on the hi-hat and an eighth
note double stroke pattern between the kick and snare.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 8
We'll use a quarter note pattern on the hi-hat and an eighth
note double stroke pattern between the kick and snare.
Ex 20

Ex 20

Click Count
Fill-in 5
With this fill-in, we will use the sweeping motion
with the right hand played between two toms.
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 5
With this fill-in, we will use the sweeping motion
with the right hand played between two toms.
R R L L R R L L
Ex 21

R R L L R R L L
Ex 21
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 5
It works well if we add a half-time groove with this fill-in.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 5
It works well if we add a half-time groove with this fill-in.
Ex 22

.


Ex 22

Click Count
Fill-in 6
To finish we will use the right hand sweeping motion
from the snare to the 3rd tom on beat 1. We will reverse
this motion on beat 3.
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 6
To finish we will use the right hand sweeping motion
from the snare to the 3rd tom on beat 1. We will reverse
this motion on beat 3.
R R L L R R L L
Ex 23

R R L L R R L L
Ex 23
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 6
This rhythm is a linear pattern. Linear means that there is only one drum or cymbal
played at any one time. This is a half-time feel with the snare backbeat on beat 3.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 6
This rhythm is a linear pattern. Linear means that there is only one drum or cymbal
played at any one time. This is a half-time feel with the snare backbeat on beat 3.
Ex 24

.

Ex 24

Copyright 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved

Drum Learn Fast Groove Builder
- Single Paradiddle
Fill-in Builder 3
15
Click Count
Fill-in 1
We'll start by playing a tom on the first stroke of each paradiddle.
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 1
We'll start by playing a tom on the first stroke of each paradiddle.
R L R R L R L L
Ex 25

R L R R L R L L
Ex 25
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 1
Now we will play the fill-in with a rock beat.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 1
Now we will play the fill-in with a rock beat.
Ex 26

Ex 26

Click Count
Fill-in 2
Next we will play the first 2 single strokes on the snare;
then the double stroke on the 3rd tom (floor tom). Repeat
this sequence on beats 3 & 4 using the 1st tom.
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 2
Next we will play the first 2 single strokes on the snare;
then the double stroke on the 3rd tom (floor tom). Repeat
this sequence on beats 3 & 4 using the 1st tom.
R L R R L R L L
Ex 27

R L R R L R L L
Ex 27
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 2
This time we will combine an upbeat and straight
eighth note rock beat together with the fill.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 2
This time we will combine an upbeat and straight
eighth note rock beat together with the fill.
Ex 28

Ex 28

Click Count
Fill-in 3
The right hand plays the first tom on beat 1
and the 3rd tom (Floor tom) on the 'an' of 3.
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 3
The right hand plays the first tom on beat 1
and the 3rd tom (Floor tom) on the 'an' of 3.
R L R R L R L L
Ex 29

R L R R L R L L
Ex 29
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 3
With this fill-in we will play a disco style dance beat.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 3
With this fill-in we will play a disco style dance beat.
Ex 30

Ex 30

Click Count
Fill-in 4
Around the kit with this pattern. The right
hand plays most of the tom strokes.
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 4
Around the kit with this pattern. The right
hand plays most of the tom strokes.
R L R R L R L L
Ex 31

R L R R L R L L
Ex 31
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 4
Here we willl use a funky upbeat
pattern on the snare for the beat.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 4
Here we willl use a funky upbeat
pattern on the snare for the beat.
Ex 32

Ex 32

Click Count
Fill-in 5
Right hand plays 2nd tom and 3rd tom.
Left hand plays 1st tom and snare drum.
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 5
Right hand plays 2nd tom and 3rd tom.
Left hand plays 1st tom and snare drum.
R L R R L R L L
Ex 33

R L R R L R L L
Ex 33
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 5
We will use another half-time groove with this fill-in.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 5
We will use another half-time groove with this fill-in.
Ex 34

Ex 34

Click Count
Fill-in 6
Right hand plays around the kit with this one.
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 6
Right hand plays around the kit with this one.
R L R R L R L L
Ex 35

R L R R L R L L
Ex 35
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 6
This beat is a little tricky with the hand and foot coordination between the kick and hi-hat.
Again, it is a half-time feel with the snare played on beat 3.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 6
This beat is a little tricky with the hand and foot coordination between the kick and hi-hat.
Again, it is a half-time feel with the snare played on beat 3.
Ex 36

.

Ex 36

Copyright 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved

Drum Learn Fast Groove Builder
Fill-in Builder 4
16
- Stick & Kick Mix
Click Count
Fill-in 1
The right hand moves around the toms, while the
kick is played on upbeats.
4
4

Click Count
Fill-in 1
The right hand moves around the toms, while the
kick is played on upbeats.
Ex 37
R F R F R F R F

Ex 37
R F R F R F R F
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 1
All the beats used in Fill-in Builder 4 mirror the fill-in rhythms.
This one is a straight quarter note rock feel.
4
4

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 1
All the beats used in Fill-in Builder 4 mirror the fill-in rhythms.
This one is a straight quarter note rock feel.
Ex 38

Ex 38

Click Count
Fill-in 2
Here we have double strokes between hands and feet.
4
4

Click Count
Fill-in 2
Here we have double strokes between hands and feet.
Ex 39
F F R L F F R L

Ex 39
F F R L F F R L
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 2
Another pop rock variation played with this fill.
4
4

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 2
Another pop rock variation played with this fill.
Ex 40

Ex 40

Click Count
Fill-in 3
Moving round the kit with this one.
4
4

Click Count
Fill-in 3
Moving round the kit with this one.
R F F L R F F L
Ex 41

R F F L R F F L
Ex 41
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 3
With this fill-in we can play a dance style beat.
4
4

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 3
With this fill-in we can play a dance style beat.
Ex 42

Ex 42

Click Count
Fill-in 4
Syncopation with the kick drum in a 3 3 2 pattern.
4
4

Click Count
Fill-in 4
Syncopation with the kick drum in a 3 3 2 pattern.
F L R F R L F L
Ex 43

F L R F R L F L
Ex 43
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 4
Straight forward rock/dance beat with this fill-in.
4
4

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 4
Straight forward rock/dance beat with this fill-in.
Ex 44

Ex 44

Click Count
Fill-in 5
Starting to split the hands up around the kit.
.
4
4

Click Count
Fill-in 5
Starting to split the hands up around the kit.
.
R L R R L R L
Ex 45

R L R R L R L
Ex 45
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 5
We will play a more challenging beat with this fill-in.
4
4

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 5
We will play a more challenging beat with this fill-in.
Ex 46

Ex 46

Click Count
Fill-in 6
Left hand plays upbeats on the 'an' of 2 and 4.
4
4

Click Count
Fill-in 6
Left hand plays upbeats on the 'an' of 2 and 4.
R R L R R L
Ex 47

R R L R R L
Ex 47
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 6
Here we will play a funky beat with this fill-in.
4
4

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 6
Here we will play a funky beat with this fill-in.
Ex 48

Ex 48

Copyright 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved

Drum Learn Fast Groove Builder
Fill-in Builder 5
17
- Stick & Kick Mix 2
Click Count
Fill-in 1
With all the fill-ins, remember to keep your right hand playing
downbeats and your left hand playing upbeats.
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 1
With all the fill-ins, remember to keep your right hand playing
downbeats and your left hand playing upbeats.
R F R L F L R F
Ex 48

R F R L F L R F
Ex 48
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 1
In the rhythm we have the snare drum playing on all 4 quarter
beats. You play an upbeat on the kick on the 'an' of 1 and 3.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 1
In the rhythm we have the snare drum playing on all 4 quarter
beats. You play an upbeat on the kick on the 'an' of 1 and 3.
Ex 49

Ex 49

Click Count
Fill-in 2
Next we have a double stroke followed
by a single stroke on the kick drum.
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 2
Next we have a double stroke followed
by a single stroke on the kick drum.
R L F F R F R L
Ex 50

R L F F R F R L
Ex 50
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 2
This time the beat flows int o the fill-in with an upbeat
snare. Try to get a nice even flow throughout the 2 bars
so it sounds like one continous motion.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 2
This time the beat flows int o the fill-in with an upbeat
snare. Try to get a nice even flow throughout the 2 bars
so it sounds like one continous motion.
Ex 51

Ex 51

Click Count
Fill-in 3
Here we can get used to leading with the left hand.
Kick drum is played on beats 1& 3.
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 3
Here we can get used to leading with the left hand.
Kick drum is played on beats 1& 3.
11
F L R L F L R L
Ex 52

F L R L F L R L
Ex 52
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 3
The beat we have here is a kind of country bluegrass feel
Notice that the right hand plays the snare backbeats on
2 & 4. The groove mirrors the fill-in.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 3
The beat we have here is a kind of country bluegrass feel
Notice that the right hand plays the snare backbeats on
2 & 4. The groove mirrors the fill-in.
R L R L R L R L Ex 53

R L R L R L R L Ex 53

Click Count
Fill-in 4
We will end this fill-in with a quarter note on beat 4.
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 4
We will end this fill-in with a quarter note on beat 4.
16
F L R F R F R
Ex 54

F L R F R F R
Ex 54
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 4
This groove has a light bouncy feel.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 4
This groove has a light bouncy feel.
Ex 55

Ex 55

Click Count
Fill-in 5
With the kick drum we play a quarter note
on beat 2 and an upbeat on the 'an' of 3.
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 5
With the kick drum we play a quarter note
on beat 2 and an upbeat on the 'an' of 3.
Ex 56
R L F R F R L

Ex 56
R L F R F R L
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 5
The left hand plays the last two snare
drum notes leading on to the fill-in.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 5
The left hand plays the last two snare
drum notes leading on to the fill-in.
R R R R L L
Ex 57

R R R R L L
Ex 57

Click Count
Fill-in 6
There's quite a lot of space in this fill-in. You might find
that you feel you want to play more notes. Here there is
only one left hand stroke which is on the last eighth note
of the bar.
, .
.

Click Count
Fill-in 6
There's quite a lot of space in this fill-in. You might find
that you feel you want to play more notes. Here there is
only one left hand stroke which is on the last eighth note
of the bar.
F R F R F L
Ex 58

F R F R F L
Ex 58
Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 6
This last groove and fill-in contains a lot of upbeat kick notes.
, .
.

Click Count
Groove & Fill-in 6
This last groove and fill-in contains a lot of upbeat kick notes.
Ex 59

Ex 59

Copyright 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved

Drum Learn Fast Groove Builder
- Kit Mix
18
Melodic Builder 1
4
4

Click Count
Groove 1
An eighth note rock beat to start.
Medodic Sound 1a
Here we will orchestrate the hi-hat pattern from Groove 1
around the toms.We will use a 3 2 3 note pattern.
4
4

Click Count
Groove 1
An eighth note rock beat to start.
Medodic Sound 1a
Here we will orchestrate the hi-hat pattern from Groove 1
around the toms.We will use a 3 2 3 note pattern.
R R R R R R R R

R R R R R R R R
Melodic Beat 1b
Now we will add the kick and snare played
with the foot and other hand.
4
4

Melodic Beat 1b
Now we will add the kick and snare played
with the foot and other hand.

Groove 2
Eight Note Rock beat.
4
4

Groove 2
Eight Note Rock beat.
Click Count
Melodic Sound 2a
Here we have a second 3 3 2 pattern around
the toms with the right hand.
4
4

Click Count
Melodic Sound 2a
Here we have a second 3 3 2 pattern around
the toms with the right hand.
R R R R R R R R

R R R R R R R R
Melodic Beat 2b
Again, we will add the kick and snare.
4
4

Melodic Beat 2b
Again, we will add the kick and snare.

F R L R F R L R
Groove 3
Upbeat hi-hat pattern.
4
4

F R L R F R L R
Groove 3
Upbeat hi-hat pattern.
Click Count
Melodic Beat 3a
Remember that the right hand
plays around the toms.
4
4

Click Count
Melodic Beat 3a
Remember that the right hand
plays around the toms.

Melodic Beat 3b
Notice with this one that the snare
on the 'an' of 2 is played with the
right hand.
4
4

Melodic Beat 3b
Notice with this one that the snare
on the 'an' of 2 is played with the
right hand.
F R L R F R L R

F R L R F R L R
Groove 4
Upbeat hi-hat pattern.
4
4

Groove 4
Upbeat hi-hat pattern.
Click Count
Melodic Beat 4a
Hi-hat on the first 2 upbeats;
then toms on the 'an' of 3 & 4.
4
4

Click Count
Melodic Beat 4a
Hi-hat on the first 2 upbeats;
then toms on the 'an' of 3 & 4.
F R L R F R L R

F R L R F R L R
Melodic Beat 4b
Moving round the kit with this one.
4
4

Melodic Beat 4b
Moving round the kit with this one.
F R L R F R L R

F R L R F R L R
L
Groove 5
Upbeat mix
4
4

L
Groove 5
Upbeat mix
Click Count
Melodic Beat 5a
Upbeats on the hi-hat followed by a run
down the toms with the right hand.
4
4

Click Count
Melodic Beat 5a
Upbeats on the hi-hat followed by a run
down the toms with the right hand.

Melodic Beat 5b
3rd tom (floor tom) upbeats followed
by two notes on the hi-hat.
4
4

Melodic Beat 5b
3rd tom (floor tom) upbeats followed
by two notes on the hi-hat.

L
R R L R R R
Groove 6
Syncopated hi-hat.

L
R R L R R R
Groove 6
Syncopated hi-hat.
Click Count
Melodic Beat 6a
A syncopated melody around the toms.
Left hand plays the snare.
4
4

Click Count
Melodic Beat 6a
A syncopated melody around the toms.
Left hand plays the snare.

Melodic Beat 6b
The right hand moves from the 3rd tom
(floor tom) to the snare on the 'an' of beat 1.
4
4

Melodic Beat 6b
The right hand moves from the 3rd tom
(floor tom) to the snare on the 'an' of beat 1.

Copyright 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved

. .
. .
. .
. .
. .
. .
Drum Learn Fast Groove Builder
- Kit Mix
Melodic Builder 2
19
4
4

Click Count
Groove 1
An eighth note rock beat to start.
Medodic Sound 1a
Here we have a more complex 3 3 2 pattern
around the toms with the right hand.
4
4

Click Count
Groove 1
An eighth note rock beat to start.
Medodic Sound 1a
Here we have a more complex 3 3 2 pattern
around the toms with the right hand.
R R R R R R R R

R R R R R R R R
Melodic Beat 1b
Now we will add the kick and snare.
4
4

Melodic Beat 1b
Now we will add the kick and snare.

Groove 2
Eighth note rock beat.
4
4

Groove 2
Eighth note rock beat.
Click Count
Melodic Sound 2a
This pattern creates a sort of 'Z' motion around the kit.
Watch out for the snare note on the 'an' of 2 & 4.
4
4

Click Count
Melodic Sound 2a
This pattern creates a sort of 'Z' motion around the kit.
Watch out for the snare note on the 'an' of 2 & 4.
R R R R R R R R

R R R R R R R R
Melodic Beat 2b
Again we will add the kick and snare.
4
4

Melodic Beat 2b
Again we will add the kick and snare.

Groove 3
Upbeat hi-hat.
4
4

Groove 3
Upbeat hi-hat.
Click Count
Melodic Beat 3a
Right hand plays around the toms.
4
4

Click Count
Melodic Beat 3a
Right hand plays around the toms.

Melodic Beat 3b
Notice with this one that the snare
on the 'an' of 2 is played with the
right hand.
4
4

Melodic Beat 3b
Notice with this one that the snare
on the 'an' of 2 is played with the
right hand.

Groove 4
Upbeat hi-hat.
4
4

Groove 4
Upbeat hi-hat.
Click Count
Melodic Beat 4a
Right hand starts and ends on the 3rd tom.
4
4

Click Count
Melodic Beat 4a
Right hand starts and ends on the 3rd tom.

Melodic Beat 4b
Here there is no snare note on beat 2.
Instead, accent the tom note with the
left hand. Accent beat 4 on the snare.
4
4

Melodic Beat 4b
Here there is no snare note on beat 2.
Instead, accent the tom note with the
left hand. Accent beat 4 on the snare.

L
Groove 5
Upbeat mix
4
4

L
Groove 5
Upbeat mix
Click Count
Melodic Beat 5a
Left hand plays the 3rd tom (floor tom) on the
'an' of 4.
4
4

Click Count
Melodic Beat 5a
Left hand plays the 3rd tom (floor tom) on the
'an' of 4.

Melodic Beat 5b
The left hand plays the 3rd tom (floor tom)
on the 'an' of 4.
4
4

Melodic Beat 5b
The left hand plays the 3rd tom (floor tom)
on the 'an' of 4.

L
R R L R R R
Groove 6
Syncopated hi-hat.

L
R R L R R R
Groove 6
Syncopated hi-hat.
Click Count
Melodic Beat 6a
Hi-hat intro with right hand
moving to the 2nd tom.
4
4

Click Count
Melodic Beat 6a
Hi-hat intro with right hand
moving to the 2nd tom.

Melodic Beat 6b
The right hand starts on the toms, moves to
the hi-hat, then ends on the 3rd tom.
4
4

Melodic Beat 6b
The right hand starts on the toms, moves to
the hi-hat, then ends on the 3rd tom.

Copyright 2009 Drum Learn All Rights Reserved

Drum Learn Fast Groove Builder
Closing Remarks
Congratulations for reaching the end of the Fast Groove Builder.
At this stage you have gained understanding of many musical symbols.You now know
the basics of music notation and have gained some experience in reading and playing
snare drum rhythms, rudiments and rock and popular beats. Also, you have experimented
with melodic groove playing using the toms. At this stage, you should be getting a good
feel for the kit, and how you, as a drummer, functions.
The Smart Sticks Worker (Drum eBook No. 2) will guide you through the next step in
your drum kit studies. This Drum eBook will look at Sixteenth Note Grooves, Triplet Grooves,
more rudiments including Rolls, Ruffs, Drags and Flams, plus ODD TIME signatures.
Lots more to look forward to...more dedication...more challenges...more fun!