Paul Wandtke – Playing In Five – Lesson 1

Hey Sick Drummers!

In the previous two lessons we learned how to play and approach seven. We did this by exploring three basic time signatures in seven, and by checking out some counting and grouping methods for them.  Although the grooves were very basic, it’s important to note that simply understanding these concepts will unlock a new mindset and awareness when playing in odd meters. It will be just a matter of time that you’ll be creating your own odd meter grooves.

This lesson; ‘Playing in 5’, will be presented in the same fashion as my previous lesson ‘Playing in 7’, by exploring the same concept: time signatures. Even if you haven’t been following along my lesson series, you can still check out this lesson ‘Playing in 5’ without any reference to the previous lesson. If you have been following along, you’ll be in great shape.

PLAYING IN 5: Lesson #1

In this lesson we will break down and discuss:

1. Time signatures in five
2. Grooves in five with different kick variations
3. Consecutive meter changes in five

The next issue of Sick Drummer will contain my lesson series, Playing in 5 “Expanded”, where we’ll cover a more in depth approach with counting and grouping in five.

Hope to see you there!

Don’t Forget:

If you’re having trouble reading the notated examples please review my first lesson, “Reading Basics,” which can be found in the fifth issue of Sick Drummer. Also, you can hear the examples in the Sibelius Scorch player.

Please note: It’s always helpful to hire a local private drum teacher for extra help. For a complete list of drum instructors in your area, check out Vic Firth’s education team list at: http://www.vicfirth.com/education/edteam_roster.php

Hope to see you there!

 

Lesson Resources

Coming next:

Playing in 5 “Expanded”