Rock/Funk Patterns with Single Paradiddles

Excerpted from Paradiddle Power

The following exercises are a study in the use of single paradiddles as rock or funk patterns. Note that the right hand is played on closed hi-hat, while the left hand moves from the hi-hat to the snare drum on 2 and 4. Be sure you’ve developed a good feel for the hand part before adding the varied bass-drum rhythms. Each exercise also has an optional open hi-hat in certain sections of the pattern. The open hi-hat “barks” add color, but they also tend to make the coordination just a bit more complex. Be certain you’re totally comfortable with the basic pattern before attempting to add the optional open/closed hi-hat.

July 2021 Issue