The Top 10 Best Drum Books to Perfect Your Technique
Learn the features to look for and how to choose the best drum books for your budget and situation, along with our Top 10 recommendations!
Drum books are a valuable resource for any aspiring or experienced drummer who wishes to expand their skills. Not only do they provide information on techniques, but they can also help to develop and refine drumming skills in general.
There are a wide variety of drum books available, including instructional materials for beginners, advanced technical and theoretical studies, as well as genre-specific material such as jazz, metal, funk, blues and more.
Drum books can be beneficial for everyone from beginner to advanced players. Beginners can use them to learn the basics of playing drums while experienced players can use them to refine their techniques or learn new stylistic approaches.
Benefits of Drumming Books
One of the primary benefits of drum books is the wealth of knowledge they contain on various drumming styles. Drummers can learn about different genres of music, and how to create beats and rhythms that fit within each one. They can also learn about specific techniques associated with those styles such as syncopation, phrasing, swing, and more. This type of knowledge is invaluable for any musician seeking to become an expert in their instrument.
Another benefit of drumming books is the ability to practice your technique at home without having to purchase expensive equipment or find a teacher. With access to detailed instructions and diagrams, it's easy for anyone to pick up the basics of playing drums from a book alone. Books that include audio recordings allow readers to hear what they should be aiming for while practicing, which is a great way to refine your skills without external instruction.
Finally, many drumming books feature interviews with professional musicians who offer insight into their own playing styles and offer advice on how beginners can improve their own technique.
In conclusion, drumming books are an invaluable resource for developing skillful musicianship in any style or genre of music. With detailed diagrams and step-by-step instructions combined with interviews from professionals, readers can gain insight into the art of playing drums that would otherwise be hard or impossible outside formal music education settings.
Buyer's Guide to the Best Drum Books
When looking to purchase one of these books, especially if you're at the beginning of your drumming career, it's essential to ask certain questions in order to make the best buying decision.
Firstly, consider the skill level of the reader. Drumming books are categorized into beginner, intermediate and advanced levels, so it’s important to match the book with your current abilities. Beginner books typically start from the most basic concepts and progress at a steady pace, while more advanced books tend to move quickly through complex topics.
Regardless of ability level, look for one that contains detailed explanation and exercises to help you develop your technique. It should also contain comprehensive information on the fundamentals of playing drums, such as rhythm and meter, dynamics and articulation, stick control and timekeeping.
It’s also important to consider the style or genre that best suits you as a drummer. Some drumming books cover a variety of genres such as rock, jazz, funk and blues, while others focus specifically on one type of style. Make sure that the book you choose covers what you need to learn in order to become proficient in your desired genre or style.
Additionally, think about how you like to learn drums and what kind of structure works best for you. Some drumming books have an accompanying DVD or audio CD which can be helpful if you require a hands-on approach when learning new techniques or songs. Other books focus on theory or specific techniques which may be better suited for those who prefer reading and listening rather than watching videos.
Finally, be sure to read reviews online before making your purchase in order to gain an understanding of other people’s experience with the particular drum book you’re considering buying. This can give you insight into whether or not the book contains accurate information and is structured in an effective manner for learning drums.
By taking into account these factors when selecting a drum book, readers will find themselves well on their way toward finding something that meets their needs and helps them hone their skills as a drummer. We've highlighted our favorites in this article to get you started...
Best for Jazz Drumming
Buddy Rich’s Modern Interpretation of Snare Drum Rudiments
Buddy Rich’s Modern Interpretation of Snare Drum Rudiments, by Buddy Rich and Henry Adler
Why it Rocks
Written by the iconic jazz drummer Buddy Rich and renowned percussionist Henry Adler, this is a comprehensive guide to music rudiment instruction.
This book provides a systematic course for the beginner and is an invaluable resource for both teachers and professional drummers looking to expand their knowledge of drumming basics.
It contains 83 lessons that cover everything from basic principles to advanced rhythmic studies, as well as 21 reading exercises and 10 rudiment-based exercises.
What sets this book apart from other snare drum method books is its focus on Buddy Rich’s unique interpretations of classic rudiments and rhythms. As an improviser with a highly innovative approach to music, he was able to bring incredibly complex concepts into the realm of accessibility, helping his readers unlock the language of jazz with ease.
He also identifies key elements within each exercise that let readers develop their own skills while staying true to the spirit and historical accuracy of these traditional techniques.
What Else
This book has all the hallmarks of a classic in drum education literature, offering novice and experienced players alike an opportunity to learn firsthand from one of the greatest jazz masters ever known - Buddy Rich himself. Its comprehensive approach allows readers to develop their own personal interpretation of musical rudiments, expanding their understanding of musicality through creative expression.
Bass Drum Control, by Colin Bailey
Why it Rocks
Authored by the renowned drummer and educator Colin Bailey, this is an indispensable resource for drummers seeking to improve and refine their bass drum technique.
Recognized as a classic within the drumming community for its comprehensive approach and effectiveness, the book delves into the intricacies of both single and double kick drum playing, providing a wealth of exercises designed to increase a player's dexterity, precision, and overall control.
Colin Bailey has an impressive reputation in the world of drumming. With decades of experience as a drummer and educator, he has shared his expertise with numerous students, contributing to the development of their drumming abilities.
Bailey's performances with some of the biggest names in music history, including Vince Guaraldi and Joe Pass, testify to his prowess behind the drum set. Drawing from his extensive background, Bailey's book offers a proven and reliable framework for drummers to attain mastery over their instrument's foundation – the bass drum.
One of the key features is its focus on both single and double kick drum playing techniques. Single bass drum playing requires drummers to develop a strong sense of balance, coordination, and independence between their limbs, while double kick drum playing demands a higher degree of speed and stamina. By addressing both these dimensions, the book offers a comprehensive training program that caters to drummers across various skill levels and stylistic preferences.
To facilitate learning, the book comes equipped with online audio access, containing a plethora of high-quality drumming samples that demonstrate the exercises detailed in the book. Utilizing the unique code found within the pages, readers can stream or download the audio files for easy reference and practice.
Moreover, the audio files are compatible with the innovative PLAYBACK+ audio player, which provides a multitude of intuitive features such as pitch control, customizable loop points, and selectable pan settings.
This cutting-edge technology enhances the learning experience, transforming the way drummers engage with the content and assimilate the techniques.
What Else
The meticulously crafted exercises in are designed to help drummers overcome technical limitations and achieve a fluid, effortless approach to bass drumming. The book incorporates diverse practice routines, ranging from fundamental rudiments to advanced patterns, enabling players to progressively build their skills and refine their technique.
By devoting time and effort to mastering these exercises, drummers can expect to experience significant improvements in their kick drum control, leading to greater expressive freedom and enhanced musicality behind the kit.
In conclusion, this is a fantastic resource for drummers of all levels, styles, and backgrounds. Its systematic approach to developing bass drum technique, combined with the author's invaluable insights and interactive audio features, make it a must-have tool for any serious drummer looking to elevate their playing to new heights.
Stick Control For the Snare Drummer, by George Lawrence Stone
Why it Rocks
Authored by the esteemed percussionist and educator George Lawrence Stone, this is a groundbreaking and comprehensive drumming method book that has been revered by professional drummers and percussionists since its initial publication in 1935.
As a testament to its significance, Modern Drummer Magazine, a leading publication in the industry, placed this book first in their 1993 list of the top 25 drumming books of all time. To this day, Stick Control remains an indispensable resource for drummers and has continued to influence the drumming community around the world.
The book derives its ethos from Stone's extensive experience as a performer and teacher, which allowed him to identify the most crucial aspects of developing technique and transforming students into versatile and well-rounded musicians.
One of the most prominent aspects of the book is its particular focus on enhancing weak hand development, which is often neglected in other drumming resources. Through a vast array of exercises and progressive etudes, Stone lays the foundation for enhancing drummers' control, speed, flexibility, touch, rhythm, lightness, delicacy, power, endurance, preciseness of execution, and muscular coordination.
Stick Control is organized into a logical sequence, which enables drummers of any skill level to develop an understanding of the exercises and allows them to apply them effectively to their own practice routines. It kicks off with basic single-beat combinations, propelling the reader through the rhythmic complexity of triplets, flam beats, flam triplets, dotted notes, short roll combinations, and short roll progressions.
As the reader progresses through the chapters, the exercises and stick control patterns become more demanding, providing a structured approach for continuous improvement.
In addition to addressing the mechanical components of snare drumming, Stone also places an emphasis on the importance of musicality and dynamic control. Rather than simply focusing on technical execution, the book encourages drummers to cultivate an innate sense of rhythm, dynamics, and expression, which are essential for developing a refined musical identity.
What Else
Beyond the realm of snare drumming, Stick Control has proven valuable for other percussion instruments and even non-percussive disciplines. Its principles and exercises have been successfully adapted to develop hand dexterity and coordination for drum set players, mallet percussionists, and even piano and keyboard players.
Its legacy has even extended into the world of sports and rehabilitation medicine, where its concepts have informed training methodologies for athletes and recovery programs for patients.
In conclusion, Stick Control for the Snare Drummer is not only a cornerstone of drumming pedagogy but a vital resource for musicians and practitioners of various disciplines. With its expertly crafted exercises that cater to both novices and seasoned professionals, this book continues to inspire generations of musicians and reinforces its status as a timeless classic.
Sticking Patterns, by Gary Chaffee
Why it Rocks
This classic offers a comprehensive and innovative approach to drumming technique, focusing on the development and mastery of stickings specifically tailored for drum set performance.
This groundbreaking work has been widely acclaimed by both students and professional drummers alike, as it presents a valuable framework for enhancing creativity, coordination, and overall drumming proficiency.
Sticking Patterns departs from the traditional method of teaching rudiments, which constitutes the core of most drumming curricula. Instead, Chaffee's system is aimed at drummers who seek to elevate their playing to new heights, by focusing on unique sticking configurations that are both challenging and rewarding to practice and perform.
The book covers an extensive range of concepts and techniques, beginning with the exploration of various single and double stroke patterns. It then delves into more complex and unconventional sticking combinations designed to help drummers develop greater technical skill and versatility.
One of the most captivating aspects of Chaffee's approach is the emphasis placed on developing unique time feels, which are essential for creating a solid groove and maintaining a steady tempo in various musical settings.
By employing a diverse array of patterns, drummers can create intricate and dynamic beats that not only captivate listeners but also set them apart from their peers.
Furthermore, it provides invaluable guidance on the implementation of accented single strokes within a drummer's playing. Mastering this technique enables drummers to accent specific parts of a groove or fill, thereby adding a layer of dynamics and musical nuance to their performance.
In addition, the book delves into the application of double strokes and other creative stickings in drum set playing. This fosters improved hand-to-hand coordination, control, and dexterity, all of which are crucial components of advanced drumming techniques.
What Else
It's not only a treasure trove of knowledge for drummers seeking to challenge their skills but also serves as an essential reference for teachers and educators who seek to enrich their instructional repertoire.
The system presented by Gary Chaffee is both versatile and adaptable, lending itself to countless applications and stylistic approaches. This book stands as a testament to the transformative power of innovative thinking in the realm of drum set education.
The Art of Bop Drumming, by John Riley
Why it Rocks
This is an essential resource for any drummer seeking to master the jazz style. With its combination of text, music, and quotes, it provides a comprehensive overview of the bop style of drumming - a style that combines elements of swing, bebop and other genres.
Through this book and accompanying audio recordings, readers can learn how to play with precision and finesse, focusing on concepts such as time playing and comping (the practice of accompanying or soloing), in addition to more jazz-specific topics such as brush playing.
John Riley presents an engaging mix of explanations, musical examples, transcriptions and exercises. He presents these topics in a way that not only makes them easy to understand but also fun to practice.
As well as providing detailed instructions on the fundamentals of bop, the book includes chapters on advanced topics such as rhythmic displacement and linear improvisation. By breaking down complex rhythmic and melodic patterns into manageable chunks, he helps readers develop their own unique approach to drumming.
What Else
The accompanying audio features over two hours of recorded material for use in practicing the exercises presented in the book. This recording features some of today's top jazz musicians playing various styles from classic bebop to more modern fusion arrangements.
The audio provides invaluable listening opportunities for developing timing awareness and technique while also inspiring further exploration into the many subtleties of jazz drumming.
The book provides readers with in-depth knowledge about all aspects of the bop style of drumming. Written by one of today's leading experts in jazz percussion, this authoritative guide will help any aspiring drummer become adept at mastering this essential style.
Progressive Steps to Syncopation for the Modern Drummer, by Ted Reed
Why it Rocks
Penned by the esteemed drummer, percussionist, and educator Ted Reed, this is a groundbreaking work in the world of drumming literature.
First published in 1958, the book continues to be held in high regard among professional drummers and percussion educators worldwide. With its systematic approach and comprehensive exercises, it has become an invaluable resource for developing a solid foundation in syncopation and enhancing one's rhythmic vocabulary.
Syncopation, the concept of emphasizing weaker or off-beat notes, is a crucial aspect of modern drumming, transcending various musical genres such as jazz, rock, funk, and Latin.
Reed's masterwork begins with elementary exercises, gradually advancing to more complex patterns and syncopated rhythms. Its thorough and structured layout ensures that drummers, regardless of skill level and background, can hone their skills and accelerate their progress.
An essential component of Reed's book is its focus on accent studies. By implementing and manipulating various accents within each exercise, students gain a deeper understanding of articulation, dynamics, and phrasing. These studies bolster drummers' technical proficiency by reinforcing stick control, hand independence, and ambidexterity.
Numerous professional drummers and educators have hailed the book as an indispensable part of their curriculum. Gary Chester, the acclaimed session drummer and author of The New Breed, described Reed's work as "the syncopation bible."
Noteworthy institutions, such as the Berklee College of Music and The Collective School of Music, incorporate the study of Reed's book as an integral element of their coursework.
What Else
One of the critical aspects of the book's enduring success lies in its adaptability. Reed's exercises can be utilized by drummers of various styles, such as rock, jazz, and Latin, enabling them to acquire a broader rhythmic vocabulary.
In addition, the book's flexible methodology allows instructors to create customized lesson plans, catering to individual students' needs and goals.
The impact is not limited to individual progress; it has also influenced ensemble performance. It serves as an excellent resource for ensemble directors aiming to enhance their groups' collective sense of time and rhythmic precision. By rehearsing the book's exercises as a group, musicians can develop a more cohesive understanding of syncopation, ultimately elevating their overall musicality.
Overall, this is is ultimate syncopation guidebook, and is an indispensable resource for drummers, percussion educators, and ensemble directors alike. With its well-structured and comprehensive approach, the book has stood the test of time and remains a vital tool in developing a deep understanding of syncopation and achieving rhythmic mastery.
Ted Reed's legacy will undoubtedly continue to influence and inspire generations of drummers for years to come.
Best for Contemporary Styles
Future Sounds: A Book of Contemporary Drumset Concepts
Future Sounds: A Book of Contemporary Drumset Concepts, by David Garibaldi
Why it Rocks
This book by David Garibaldi is an essential resource for any present-day drummer. The book and accompanying audio CD provide invaluable insight into the groundbreaking funk/jazz fusion drumming techniques of iconic drummer and master teacher David Garibaldi.
Through detailed instruction, exercises and demonstrations, Garibaldi presents his approach to creating a unique sound on the drums that combines traditional funk with modern jazz elements.
Garibaldi's contemporary linear styles are explored in depth within the book, including his signature triplet-based grooves and hi-hat ostinato patterns.
The musical concepts taught will allow aspiring drummers to develop their own unique vocabulary on the instrument. In addition, readers will learn how to develop a deep understanding of meter, phrasing and dynamics as they relate to funk music from an advanced perspective.
What Else
The accompanying audio features practice tracks created by some of today’s top musicians. These tracks are designed to give drummers an opportunity to apply the concepts learned in the book in real time situations. This interactive approach allows drummers to hone their skills both as players and improvisers through a combination of listening and playing along with these recordings.
This is an outstanding resource for any serious student of the drums looking to expand their knowledge and mastery of contemporary funk/jazz fusion styles. With its comprehensive lessons, exercises and demonstrations, this book provides invaluable insight into one of today's most influential drumming styles that any drummer at any level can benefit from studying.
Best for Developing Independence
Advanced Techniques for the Modern Drummer Vol. 1
Advanced Techniques for the Modern Drummer Vol. 1, by Jim Chapin
Why it Rocks
Penned by the legendary Jim Chapin, this book is a groundbreaking and comprehensive guide that has significantly transformed the landscape of drum instruction since its initial release in 1948. This seminal piece of literature in the world of drumming is often hailed as the "Holy Grail" of percussion methodology, and has established itself as an indispensable resource for aspiring and professional drummers alike.
Chapin, affectionately referred to as the "Father of Jazz Independence," earned this moniker through his dedication to developing and refining innovative drumming techniques that emphasize the importance of independence and coordination among all four limbs while playing.
This book, his magnum opus, meticulously dissects complex rhythmic patterns and syncopations that require a unique degree of simultaneous coordination for drummers.
The newly revamped edition of this timeless masterpiece comes equipped with online audio accompaniment, enabling students of the art to fully immerse themselves in the intricacies of the exercises and enhance their overall learning experience. This invaluable addition enables drummers to work on their timing, feel, and groove alongside top-tier recorded performances that have been specifically designed to complement the curriculum laid out in the book.
The book encompasses a wide variety of dynamic content, ranging from foundational exercises in stick control, ostinato patterns, and basic independence exercises, to more advanced material addressing topics such as multiple-time signatures, polyrhythms, and intricate cymbal patterns. This all-encompassing approach ensures that students are well-equipped to tackle any musical challenge that they may encounter on the drum set.
What Else
One of the key strengths of this influential work is its adaptability—an attribute that Chapin has consistently emphasized throughout his prolific career as a master teacher and performer.
The exercises and concepts presented can be applied across a variety of genres and playing styles, making it an essential addition to the libraries of drummers from all walks of life.
Furthermore, the skills obtained through diligent practice of the content within this remarkable book can pay significant dividends in terms of enhancing crucial aspects of drumming, such as speed, power, and endurance.
By developing the ability to maintain independence, control, and rhythmic accuracy, drummers will invariably attain a newfound level of confidence and proficiency in performance settings.
This influential and enduring piece of literature stands as a testament to the innovation, dedication, and mastery of one of the most esteemed figures in the realm of percussion instruction.
Master Studies, by Joe Morello
Why it Rocks
This iconic workbook of material used to develop the hands for controlling single strokes, double strokes, and closed rolls is divided into sections covering accents, buzz rolls, stroke combinations, control studies, fill-ins, ostinatos and flams.
This book provides a comprehensive set of exercises designed to challenge the reader’s technical ability at any level. It also offers invaluable advice regarding practice habits and techniques that can help players become more consistent musicians.
Morello’s approach in this book is to demonstrate why certain techniques are necessary for achieving greater levels of accuracy. This includes important concepts such as dynamic control and rhythmic accuracy which are essential in developing expressive drumming.
Along with these ideas are detailed explanations on how to apply them when playing both live and in the studio.
What Else
In addition to providing a series of exercises for improving technique, Master Studies also serves as an introduction to different styles of drumming including jazz, rock and classical music.
By understanding how different beats fit into each style players can create their own unique sounds while still paying homage to these genres.
Overall, Master Studies is an indispensable addition to any drummer's library that provides insight into developing better technique while also exploring different musical styles from around the world. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for new challenges this book will have something for everyone.
Ultimate Realistic Rock Drum Method, by Carmine Appice
Why it Rocks
This classic by Carmine Appice is an exceptionally comprehensive instructional book and a must-have resource for aspiring rock drummers eager to hone their skills and expand their musical repertoire.
This timeless classic, first published in 1972, serves as an essential guide for drummers at all levels, carrying on the wisdom of one of the most influential drummers in rock music history, Carmine Appice. Carmine is renowned for his work with Vanilla Fudge, Cactus, and the power trio Beck, Bogert, & Appice, and has further solidified his legacy through his instructional materials and methodology.
The latest edition builds on the foundational techniques and exercises that have made the book a best-seller for decades, while incorporating new, relevant content to cater to the ever-evolving landscape of rock drumming.
The new edition is meticulously organized into various sections, each addressing a specific aspect of drumming.
Some of the key sections covered in this edition are:
1. Basic Rock Rhythms: Here, readers will learn the essential rhythms that form the backbone of rock music, providing a solid foundation for building their drumming skills.
2. Polyrhythms and Linear Rudiments: These complex and intricate rhythmic patterns and techniques will challenge drummers to push their limits and expand their skillset in unique ways.
3. Hi-hat and Double Bass Drum exercises: This section focuses on developing dexterity and coordination with hi-hat and double bass drum techniques, essential for rock drumming mastery.
4. Shuffle Rhythms and Syncopation: In this section, drummers will dive into the subtleties of syncopation and shuffle rhythms, essential for grooving and establishing a unique stylistic identity.
5. Odd-time Signatures: One of the new updates in this edition, this section outlines the intricacies of playing in odd-time signatures, fostering versatility and adaptability in various musical contexts.
6. Hands and Feet Combinations: Another new addition, this section helps drummers develop independence and coordination by working on various combinations of hand and foot patterns.
7. Rave/Dance Drumming: Addressing the growing trend of electronic music influencing rock and other genres, this section introduces relevant techniques and concepts to modernize a drummer's approach.
What Else
The book includes two CDs with audio tracks that bring the content to life. The audio examples and play-along tracks are expertly crafted, providing a highly effective practice and learning experience for aspiring drummers.
The new content and audio tracks have been seamlessly integrated into the book, striking the perfect balance between the classic wisdom that has made the book a staple and the innovative additions that keep it current and fresh.
Having served as a starting point for numerous famous drummers over the years, this classic is an invaluable resource for drummers seeking a comprehensive guide to mastering rock drumming. The expertly crafted updates and additions make it highly relevant for modern drummers, ensuring that the wisdom of the past meets the demands of the present, resulting in a well-rounded, perpetually evolving musician.
FAQs About the Best Drum Books
What are the advantages of reading a drum book compared to online tutorials?
Reading a physical book offers certain advantages over online tutorials – it allows you to read through materials at your own pace without distractions like advertisements or other content. Furthermore, depending on the particular book you choose it may feature large photographs, diagrams, or drum sheet music that can aid your understanding better than what’s possible on a screen.
Are there any drawbacks associated with using drum books?
One drawback associated with using physical printed materials is that they don’t offer the same interactivity as online tutorials do. You won’t have access to sound samples or videos demonstrating the techniques being taught in the book which could be helpful when learning certain aspects of playing drums.
Additionally, it might take some time before finding out about updates or newer editions of your chosen book if you go this route.
Are there any specialized books available?
Yes! There are several genre-specific instructional materials available ranging from Jazz and Latin styles all the way through experimental/electronic beats.
Many publishers also offer collections dedicated to specific artists or writers so that readers can study their approach in detail.
Do all drumming books come with CDs or digital downloads?
Not necessarily – most basic instruction manuals don’t come with audio accompaniment but some higher-end publications do include either CDs or digital downloads featuring audio examples related to each chapter in the book.
Is it possible to buy used copies of drumming books?
You may find secondhand copies of previously published material being sold online which could be significantly cheaper than purchasing a new copy off the shelf.
However, bear in mind that any accompanying digital elements (eBooks/CDs) may not be transferable if they require verification via software/hardware security keys, etc, upon first use.
Are there any free resources available for those interested in learning drums?
In addition to many commercial offerings both print and digital formats there are plenty of free resources available online such as articles written by professional educators and authors offering advice on various topics relating to playing drums including technique development and musical understanding etcetera.
Are there any resources available specifically designed for children who want to learn drums?
Yes! There are many educational materials specifically tailored towards kids who want to learn how play drums; these often focus on building foundational skills such as rudimentary hand-eye coordination exercises as well as general introductions into rhythm patterns found within popular music styles like rock/pop/dance etcetera
Summary of the Best Drum Books
Hopefully this article has helped you decide which of the best drum books will work best for you and your situation - just to recap, here are our favorites:
Best for Jazz Drumming: Buddy Rich’s Modern Interpretation
Best for Kick Technique: Bass Drum Control
Best for Snare Drum Technique: Stick Control For the Snare Drummer
Best for Focus on Sticking Patterns: Sticking Patterns
Best for Bop: The Art of Bop Drumming
Best for Syncopation: Progressive Steps to Syncopation
Best for Contemporary Styles: Future Sounds
Best for Developing Independence: Advanced Techniques
Best for a Workbook-Style Book: Master Studies
Best for Rock Drumming: Ultimate Realistic Rock Drum Method
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