If nothing else, BufBloPoFo is a learning tool. Last year, we learned how to load a dishwasher, how to take a leak, etc. Let’s keep that going this year, but instead of focusing on what people are doing wrong, tell me what you think you do right. Walk me through a process. Give me the step-by-steps. Can you make damn good baba ganoush? Can you tie a bow tie? Can you pour the perfect Guinness??? Teach me how, perfesser.
This challenge bums me out, as it makes me realize just how little I actually know how to do. But, here goes nothing.
How to play a drum set:
This lesson assumes you have some semblance of rhythm, but no actual experience playing the drums. You don't even need a drum set to start this lesson. You can learn this lesson at home, at the office, on the metro... basically anywhere you can sit down. The idea is to get all 4 limbs working in unison, each tapping its own distinct pattern.
- First, tap your right foot in a steady pattern, counting out 1 - 2 -3 - 4 as you tap. In other words, for those of you with a music background, you're counting out quarter notes, in 4/4 time.
- Once you get that foot going, add the second foot into the picture. On your left foot, tap only on the 2 and 4 beat.
- After both feet are happily tapping together, add the right hand into the picture. The right hand will be playing 2 notes for every one tap of the right foot. Go ahead and just drum on your thigh. Count it out as "1 and 2 and 3 and 4 and", tapping on both the number and the word "and." Again, for those of you who know music, you're playing eighth notes on the right hand.
- If you've gotten this far, congratulations! You're 3/4ths of the way there. Now one final limb to add in. This one should be easy. Your left hand should tap on the 2 and 4, along with your left leg.
- If you have trouble getting all the limbs working together, try working on combinations of just 2 at a time. I recommend starting with the right leg keeping the 1 2 3 4 beat. Then just practice with each of the other limbs in order.
There you go. If you can do that with just your hands and feet, you can sit down at a drum set and pretty much play. Your right foot will play the bass pedal, the left foot will press the pedal of the high hat cymbal, your right hand will hold a stick and strike the ride cymbal, and your left hand will hold a stick and strike the snare drum.
Posts
0 comments: