Band Today, Part 1: Drum Book

Ployhar's drum book sits at the foundation of a complete, thoughtfully sequenced curriculum that actually works in mixed-ability classes. The writing respects percussion students by treating their independence seriously while building alongside the rest of the band, rather than relegating drum parts to afterthoughts.

Methodical and grounded. The writing unfolds patiently, building from single-voice exercises into coordinated patterns that demand focus and control. There's a satisfying clarity to how each new concept builds on what came before, creating genuine progress rather than random drills.

Beginning percussionists joining a full band class, whether in a school ensemble or private instruction setting. Drummers new to reading in concert pitch and coordinating multiple voices on drumset will find a structured path that progresses logically alongside their bandmates' developing skills.

• Establish consistent stick grip and posture early in the year; returning to fundamentals prevents bad habits from cementing into more complex passages.
• Layer rhythm patterns gradually, introducing each snare line or bass drum figure in isolation before combining them with band material.
• Mark critical entrances and cutoffs clearly in the score, especially passages where drumset independence matters most to the overall texture.
• Balance practice time between the method book exercises and the correlated band arrangements so students see immediate application of new techniques.

Use this as your primary method text for beginning drummers in concert band, pacing it alongside the other Band Today parts so all sections advance together. The 32-page scope allows you to move through it over a full school year without rushing, leaving room to explore the supplementary ensemble and solo materials the Contemporary Band Course offers.

• Reading concert pitch notation on the grand staff
• Coordinating snare drum and bass drum independence
• Executing fundamental rudiments with control and consistency
• Maintaining steady pulse while the band shifts between meters and tempos
• Building hand technique and stick control through progressive exercises