Playing rhythmically in an ensemble

Key learning points

1. Playing in time is a crucial aspect of ensemble performance, alongside having good balance.
2. Without good timing, performances sound messy and unpolished, even if there are other strong elements.
3. As a drummer, playing both grooves and fills at the correct tempo is crucial for the ensemble.
4. We can use different strategies to work on playing in time.
5. These include practising with a metronome and listening carefully to the other parts in the ensemble while playing.

Keywords

• Groove - a repeating pattern, often played on a drum kit that provides the rhythmic accompaniment to the other parts

• Fill - a short phrase in which the drummer plays a different pattern, highlighting the end of a section of music; fills usually last for 2 or 4 beats

• Balance - the relative volume of different parts or instruments; effective balance is where every part can be heard clearly

Common misconception