Rock Perspectives

Double Bass Workout

Part 3: 16th-Note, 16th-Note Triplet, and 32nd-Note Combinations

by Todd Vinciguerra

In this lesson we’ll mix 16th notes, 16th-note triplets, and 32nd notes on the bass drums and play them along with 16th-note-based hand patterns. Remember to play to a metronome or click track, and start off slowly and master each exercise before increasing speed.To take the exercises a step further, instead of just playing the patterns one at a time, turn them into two-, three-, or four-bar phrases. And instead of using what’s written for the hi-hat, try using quarter notes, 16th notes, or a combination of your own. Experiment with the bass drum patterns as well. For example, you can switch the lead foot, or you can play the rhythms using double strokes.

For the next set of examples, we’ll add a different snare rhythm to the previous ride and bass drum patterns. As always, feel free to experiment on your own, and have fun!

Todd “Vinny” Vinciguerra is the author of several drum instructional books. His latest, Double Basics: Complete Double Bass Drum Book, is available through Mel Bay. For more info, visit anotherstateofmind.com.