A Fill for Every Season #5

The drum fill for this episode incorporates a 16th-note linear idea between the hi-hat, bass drum, snare, and toms. Unlike most drum fills, this one is conceived over two bars, starting on the fourth beat of the first bar and developing on the second bar. The key to mastering this idea is memorizing the sticking starting slowly, and once comfortable increasing the BPM. Analyzing the drum fill, we have a groove-oriented construction with a snare backbeat and a defined bass drum pattern. A variation occurs in the last two beats, with an open/closed hi-hat pattern and an ending on the toms.

linear drum fill idea

Here’s a demonstration of the drum fill at two grooves and tempos. That’s an idea suitable for various styles. An advanced suggestion is to change the drum fill and the orchestration, keeping the same sticking as notated. Check out the previous episodes, including other drum-fill ideas. Elevate your drumming!

* The hi-hat on the second beat of the second bar is optional and at your discretion. In the video, I omit it to have a linear approach.


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