How to Play Basic Beats on a Drum Kit

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Play a 4/4 on the hi-hat.

   All that means is to count 1-2-3-4 at an even pace and hit the high hat on every beat.
   
   This is the most basic part of the drum beat.
2. 2

   Step 2: Throw in the bass.

   Every time you play 1 and 3, hit the hi-hat and bass drum at the same time.
   
   Be sure to hit the hi-hat too, not just the bass.
   
   Many drummers forget that. , You have probably noticed that in between bass hits there's a gap.
   
   Fill the gap by hitting the hi-hat and snare at the same time on beats 2 and
   4.
   
   Your beat should sound like this (keep in mind the hi-hat is played on every beat too), Bass-Snare-Bass-Snare. , This is slightly harder than the first beat.
   
   Instead of counting 1-2-3-4 on the hi-hat, play 1&2&3&4&.
   
   This is called eight notes.
   
   Still hit the bass drum on beats 1 and 3 and still hit the snare drum on beats 2 and 4, there should be one hi-hat hit in between bass and snare hits.
3. 3

   Step 3: Add the snare.

4. 4

   Step 4: Play eight notes.

Detailed Guide

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