PLAY MAKER Part 2
Continued………
Play Maker is a series dealing with the interpretation of rhythmic figures. Inspiration came from one of our most beloved resources, Ted Reed’s Syncopation. We will be using triplets, sixteenth notes, sixteenth note triplets and thirty second notes in a substitution format for the eighth, quarter, dotted quarter, and half notes in the etude. Many of us have familiarized ourselves with this type of interpretation in a triplet/swing style; now let’s combine this with some other ideas.
This is the first line of pg 37 in Ted Reed’s Syncopation. This is the rhythmic shell for the upcoming phrases.
Example 1
Let’s try some substitution, going through our table of time. The melody line will be in the bass drum, filler notes will be played between the floor tom and snare drum, hi hat on 2 & 4. Experiment with stickings, I am using primarily double strokes on the snare drum.
Example 2
Listen to Example 2
Next, we have the note values followed by their substitutions. Following these are a series of combinations in 4 bar phrases. Try these on the snare drum until the rhythms are comfortable. Be patient with these, they may take a moment to digest. I have included recorded examples of these to check out.
Example 3
Example 4
Listen to Example 4
Example 5
Listen to Example 5
Example 6
Listen to Example 6
Example 7
Listen to Example 7
Example 8
Listen to Example 8
Try these with a double time feel:
Example 9
Listen to Example 9
Example 10
Listen to Example 10
Experiment with different lengths of beat combinations, as well as different sound sources, in both the hands and feet. This type of rate shifting will strengthen your pulse, balance and coordination. Always use a metronome or drum machine when you practice. Be sure to think of these ideas as phrases, not just beats. Organize your ideas into musical thoughts. This type of phrasing can be heard in the playing of Elvin Jones, Jack DeJohnette, Jeff “Tain” Watts, John Riley and Bill Stewart. This concept is also the backbone of most Afro Cuban music. Check out the master Congueros, Timbaleros, and Drummers that are continuing to revolutionize these concepts. Some of today’s names include: Los Munequitos de Mantanzas, Poncho Sanchez, Giovanni Hidalgo, Roberto Quintero, Richie Flores, Jerry Gonzalez, Michael Spiro, Ramon Banda, Ralph Irizarry, Ignacio Berroa, Steve Berrios, Dafnis Prieto, Horacio Hernandez and Antonio Sanchez.
Joe McCarthy is an endorser/clinician for Yamaha Drums, Zildjian Cymbals, Innovative Percussion, and Lp Percussion.
Contact Joe with questions or comments at joemcdrum@gmail.com, and visit his website: www.joemcdrum.com
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