Exploring Afro-Cuban 6/8 Vocabulary Using Ted Reed’s Syncopation

Some of the main rhythms in West Africa are based on 6/8 feels and the essential concept of clave. The application of Afro-Cuban 6/8 on the drumset opened the way for new rhythms and ideas, involving coordination, independence, and polyrhythms. With this article divided into two parts, I introduce a lesson to develop your coordination … More Exploring Afro-Cuban 6/8 Vocabulary Using Ted Reed’s Syncopation

Afro-Cuban 6/8 Funk Application: Accent Displacement

The applications of the Afro-Cuban 6/8 feel are endless, inspiring you to play new grooves. Today I’ll talk about applying this rhythm in a funk/fusion style: adding the snare drum backbeat, ghost notes, and the dotted 8th-note bass drum pattern. The 6/8 cowbell rhythm will be played on the hi-hat, as shown in the figure … More Afro-Cuban 6/8 Funk Application: Accent Displacement

Afro-Cuban 6/8 Counter-Rhythms Using Ted Reed’s Syncopation

Ted Reed’s Progressive Steps to Syncopation is a great resource for studying different drum aspects: stickings, linear phrasing, coordination, independence, and music styles. There are many interpretations and the possibilities are endless. Exploring Afro-Cuban 6/8 by moving the left hand around the kit to create syncopated rhythms is a great way to enhance your coordination … More Afro-Cuban 6/8 Counter-Rhythms Using Ted Reed’s Syncopation