Rhythmic Patterns: Full Drum Set Studies for the Modern Drummer

This book solves a real problem: most drummers learn snare patterns in isolation, then struggle when asked to orchestrate those same figures across the kit. Cusatis's systematic approach transforms that disconnect into an asset, turning snare technique into the foundation for fluid, musically intelligent drumset playing. The progression from eighth notes through triplets to sixteenths means every drummer finds their entry point.

The studies feel progressive and purposeful rather than abstract. You're playing patterns that actually appear in real music, not disconnected technical exercises. As complexity builds, there's a satisfying moment when your hands and feet start communicating; the kit opens up.

Intermediate to advanced drummers ready to expand beyond basic rock and jazz rudiments into more sophisticated coordination work. This is equally valuable for students preparing for college auditions and working professionals who want to deepen their command of the drumset.

• Start with single-stroke patterns on the snare before migrating them to the toms and kick. The muscle memory from your original stickwork stays intact while your kit awareness grows.
• Record yourself playing the written exercises, then listen back for evenness across drums. Rushing or dragging becomes immediately obvious when the tones change with each drum.
• Isolate the kick drum line separately until it feels independent of your stick work. Many drummers lock the foot to the hands too early, limiting what the bass drum can actually do.
• Use a practice pad for the stick patterns first if the full kit feels overwhelming. Once the sticking is automatic, transfer to drums and focus entirely on foot coordination.

Assign chapters sequentially throughout the year as your drummers develop independence and coordination. A particularly rewarding approach is pairing these studies with repertoire that uses the exact figures covered in each section, so students hear immediately how this technique serves the music they're performing.

• Cross sticking and hand leading patterns on the drumset
• Reading and executing figures in eighth notes, triplets, and sixteenth notes
• Left and right hand independence across multiple drums
• Kick drum coordination with upper body figures
• Speed and facility moving around the kit with precision
• Foundational language for improvised and written solo construction