It’s been quite silent on this blog drumming lately.
I haven’t published a post in months.
No new tips or drums sheet music.
Obviously, FOMO is nothing I’m worried about.
But why the break?
Basically, I needed time to think.
It was time for me to get my shit together.
(Again.)
However, I don’t regret taking a break.
Simply because
Breaks can be outstandingly powerful.
The same applies to drumming.
Less Is More? True That (Sometimes)!
Many drummers fall into the trap of overplaying.
They
- add more,
- and more and
- just some more notes.
No doubt, it’s great fun to play a lot!
On the other hand, just adding more can be too much sometimes.
More can be exhausting:
For the listeners, just like the players.
May I ask you a little question?
When Was The Last Time You Played Less Instead Of More?
Think about it.
If you’re somewhat like me, you might have a hard time remembering.
Not because we can’t remember.
But because breaks are a superb way to spice-up our drumming.
Here’s a little exercise for you:
- Step 1: Think of a beat or drum fill you’d like to play right now.
- Step 2: Play this rhythm just like you’re used to playing it.
- Step 3: Take away notes. Break up the beat!
Here’s an example of a basic groove:
That’s a lovely drum beat, right?
Agreed.
But what happens if you throw in a little break?
Let’s see:
I simply modified the beat by adding a rest.
Also, I moved the kick to the next counting time. (from 3 to 3 +)
These small changes give the groove a whole new feeling.
You could also try this version:
- In the first bar, I just replaced the last two notes with a quarter note rest.
- Then, I decided to add more again, a flam.
Doesn’t this sound powerful to you?
To me, it really does.
These examples prove it:
You really don’t have to always play more to sound creative on the drums.
Instead, playing less is equally exciting.
Don’t Be Afraid To Take That Break
Rests are like the breath of music.
That’s why musical strength has nothing to do with being the loudest.
It’s about balance.
And there’s no sound without silence.
All the best to you.
Manu
