I don’t seem to tire of working on my jazz ride cymbal pattern. One really fun thing about it — there are so many phrasing variations. E.g., Tony Williams’ ride cymbal sounds so unique, and very different than so many other great players, such as Roy Haynes, Max Roach, Philly Joe Jones, Art Blakey, Jimmy Cobb, Jack DeJohnette, and Elvin Jones. The list is almost endless, however, I think you get the idea.
Here’s something I like doing: I’ll put on some of my favorite recordings, and simply listen. Then, I’ll try playing on a pad — just the basic ride beat. Finally, I’ll get on my drum kit and play. Again, first I’ll play just the cymbal pattern. Finally, I’ll see about adding the rest of the drum set.
While I was in college, a good friend talked about playing the ride cymbal while listening to Philly Joe — but playing it with his left hand. This drummer is right handed, but understood that if he was able to swing with his left hand, AND get Philly Joe’s feel, then he was on a good path. Try it, and let me know.
One of the hardest things that I’ve ever tried to do is the first part of John Riley’s book, The Art of Bop Drumming, where he has you sing a very specific counting pattern with accents, and play the ride pattern against that idea. If you do not own this book, I highly recommend it. It is very organized, musical and really can’t be beat.
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