Jazz Drums

It is no secret that music educators are faced with unique challenges when engaging young musicians who play drum sets. Many educators aren’t drummers themselves, which can create fear and uncertainty and ultimately lead them to avoid, rather than embrace, the wonderful and exciting world of jazz percussion. This chapter provides conceptual and technical approaches to understanding the role each component of the drum set contributes to the ensemble, as well as the role of the drum set in its entirety. It also touches on how dynamics can change the function and style of a groove as well as creative ways to encourage students to move beyond pattern playing. In particular, discussion and examples are provided regarding setup, sound sources, keeping time, functioning within the rhythm section, transitioning from timekeeping to improvising, and various rhythms and grooves.