Exploring the Levels of Complexity in Drumming

Summary

In this article, we delve into the world of drumming with Larnell Lewi, a drummer, composer, and educator. Lewi discusses the different levels of complexity in drumming, from accenting notes to polyrhythms and four-way independence. He demonstrates various grooves and rudiments to help understand the concepts.

Accenting Notes and Syncopation
Adding Complex Elements to Grooves
Polyrhythms
Orchestrating Rhythms
Four-Way Independence and Reorchestrating Rhythms

Accenting Notes and Syncopation

Lewi begins by discussing the importance of accenting notes in a pattern, specifically on the hi-hat bar. He explains how to coordinate lifting the foot, hitting the hi-hat, and bringing the foot back down. He also mentions adding syncopation to make the rhythm more complex. He demonstrates this by playing a simple groove and then adding syncopations to the bass drum and snare drum.

Adding Complex Elements to Grooves

Next, Lewi demonstrates a more complex groove with added elements such as an open hi-hat, a skip note, and syncopations on the bass drum. He explains the importance of keeping a steady tempo while adding these elements to the groove. He also discusses the difference between playing a funk groove and a rock groove, with the emphasis on the downbeat in funk and the more evenly spaced energy in rock.

Polyrhythms

Lewi then moves on to discuss polyrhythms, which is layering two rhythms on top of each other. He demonstrates different polyrhythms, such as three over two and four over three. He explains the importance of keeping a steady tempo and practicing slowly to master polyrhythms.

Orchestrating Rhythms

The next level of complexity Lewi discusses is orchestrating a rhythm by playing the same rhythm but with different parts of the drum kit. He demonstrates this by playing a groove on the snare drum and then moving the rhythm to the hi-hat, bass drum, and toms. He emphasizes the importance of practicing slowly and mastering each part before moving on to the next.

Four-Way Independence and Reorchestrating Rhythms

Finally, Lewi discusses four-way independence, where all limbs play different rhythms simultaneously, and reorchestrating rhythms to different parts of the kit. He demonstrates this by playing a groove and then moving the rhythm to different parts of the kit while keeping the other limbs playing different rhythms. He also plays a song called “Change Your Mind” to help lock in the groove.

Conclusion

In conclusion, drumming is a complex art form that requires practice and dedication to master. Larnell Lewi’s demonstration of different levels of complexity in drumming provides insight into the various techniques and skills required to become a proficient drummer. By practicing slowly and mastering each level, drummers can improve their skills and create more complex and interesting rhythms.