Percussion and Rhythm Workshop: Drumset Book

Hammond structures this book to move systematically from foundational technique through applied musicianship, giving drummers both the mechanics and the musical context they need. The inclusion of small ensemble works alongside solo material means you can use these exercises in rehearsal and pull repertoire for student recitals or percussion ensemble concerts.

The book balances technical rigor with musical purpose, moving from isolated technique building into jazz vocabulary and groove-based playing. Rhythmic language feels grounded in jazz tradition while offering clear structure that won't leave drummers guessing what comes next.

Intermediate to advanced drummers working toward jazz fluency and seeking systematic development of both technical skills and ensemble musicianship. This book suits students preparing for jazz studies at the college level as well as directors building a percussion program that balances solo work with group playing.

• Work through the roll exercises slowly and deliberately before attempting tempo; control the stick height and bounce before worrying about speed.
• Use the duets and trios to lock into ensemble playing; focus on listening to your partner's tone and phrasing, not just keeping time.
• Approach the drum grooves as rhythmic vocabulary rather than just patterns to memorize; practice each groove in multiple tempos and feels.
• Study the compositions to understand how the written exercises transfer to actual musical contexts; pay attention to dynamics and articulation changes.

Deploy the exercises in weekly lessons as a technical foundation, then pull the duets and small ensemble pieces for percussion section rehearsals or as supplementary repertoire alongside your main concert programming. The original compositions work well for jazz ensemble features or percussion showcase concerts.

• Open and closed roll control at varied tempos
• Jazz drum grooves and comping patterns
• Reading and performing percussion ensemble parts (2-6 players)
• Listening and ensemble coordination in small groups
• Rhythm interpretation and phrasing in jazz contexts
• Snare drum technique and stick control