A useful way to conceptualize rhythm is to think of it as space. In the context of drumming, each note fills a specific space within the time signature. For instance, a quarter note in 4/4 fills the space of one beat. Within that space, you can incorporate a few or many notes. Understanding how to fill these spaces enhances your rhythmic vocabulary, gives you freedom and enables more creative expression. Below are several examples of rhythmic combinations that fill the space of a quarter note (two 8th notes) and a dotted quarter note (three 8th notes). Understand, these represent several examples but not the entire list of rhythms that you can use. Developing Your Rhythmic Vocabulary in 5/4 To navigate the unique challenges of playing in “odd” meters (in this case 5/4) this method encourages expanding your rhythmic vocabulary by experimenting with various note groupings, fills and grooves. This is […]

April 2025 Issue