A Percussionist's Guide to Check Patterns: Drum Book & Online Audio

Hannum's systematic approach to check patterns addresses a real pedagogical need: most drummers can play basic rhythms, but controlling syncopated sticking patterns separates capable players from secure ones. The inclusion of online audio means students hear exactly what clean execution sounds like, and teachers can assign focused homework without needing to demo every variation themselves.

The systematic presentation feels methodical and purposeful rather than scattered; each pattern builds logically on what came before. Working through the exercises creates the satisfying sensation of gradual mastery, where coordination that felt awkward initially becomes intuitive.

Beginning to advanced percussionists working one-on-one with an instructor or in small ensemble settings who need to build solid fundamentals in rhythmic reading and sticking control. Drumset players preparing for auditions or performance situations where tight syncopation is essential will find this especially useful.

• Start each pattern at a slow tempo where you can feel the underlying pulse distinctly; once the sticking becomes automatic, gradually increase speed without losing the subdivision.
• Record yourself playing each pattern and listen back specifically for evenness of stroke heights and consistent timing on the syncopated hits.
• Practice duple and triplet patterns back-to-back to sharpen your ability to switch between them without losing control of your grip or rebound.

Assign specific sections as homework between lessons to target problem areas your students encounter in ensemble literature. Percussion ensemble directors can use selected patterns as warm-up material before rehearsals to reinforce precision across the section.

• Reading and executing duple-based rhythmic patterns with accurate sticking
• Reading and executing triplet-based rhythmic patterns with accurate sticking
• Syncopation control and coordination between hands and feet
• Consistency of stroke height and evenness across repeated patterns
• Switching between duple and triplet feels without losing rhythmic stability