Here’s our second lesson on developing our four-way independence.
Clearly, this one is a lot more complicated than last week’s example. So let’s break down how to practice exercises like this.
- This one may take you a little while just to get the ostinato down. That’s fine . . . just take your time. Start with the ride cymbal, then add the kick, then add the hi-hat. Or start with the feet and then add the ride cymbal. Work it piece by piece . . . SLOWLY! And work it longer than is necessary. Don’t get it once and move on. Get comfortable!
- Now, once you have the ostinato down, move on to letter (B) and add the snare drum. Again start slowly. Then, once you are very comfortable with later (B) and then move on to letter (C).
- To work letter (D), start out by working the hands together . . . SLOWLY! Then add in the feet.
- Once you’ve mastered this entire exercise, begin to improvise and see if you can come up with other rhythms. This is the start to four-way independence solos.
Get after it!
