Exploring New Rhythms and Beats on the Drum Kit

Written by Ross Federman on Mon Apr 08 2024

Hey there, diary. It's Ross here, ready to spill some thoughts and reflections on my latest drumming adventures. Lately, I've been feeling the itch to break out of my usual rhythms and beats and explore new territories on the drum kit. It's like a musical journey that keeps me inspired and excited every time I sit down behind those drums.

I've always had a love for experimenting with different sounds and patterns, pushing myself to try something fresh and unexpected. Whether it's incorporating complex polyrhythms or adding unique accents to traditional grooves, I find joy in exploring the endless possibilities that drumming has to offer.

One thing that has really been driving me lately is listening to diverse genres of music from around the world. From African tribal beats to Latin salsa rhythms, each culture brings its own unique flavor to the table – inspiring me to incorporate elements of their music into my own playing.

I remember one particular session where I stumbled upon a video of an Indian tabla player showcasing his incredible skills. The intricate finger movements and fast-paced rhythms blew me away, sparking a newfound curiosity in exploring Eastern percussion styles on the drum kit.

As I delved deeper into this world of exotic sounds and techniques, I found myself getting lost in a sea of new possibilities. The challenge of adapting these foreign rhythms onto my familiar instrument was both daunting yet invigorating – pushing me out of my comfort zone but ultimately expanding my musical horizons.

It wasn't easy at first – navigating through unfamiliar time signatures and learning how to execute intricate hand patterns required patience and dedication. But as I persisted through hours of practice sessions filled with trial-and-error moments, gradual progress began surfacing as these once-difficult rhythms started becoming more natural under my hands.

There were times when frustration crept in - hitting roadblocks where certain patterns seemed impossible or simply didn't sound right no matter how hard I tried. But instead of giving up or settling for mediocrity,I pushed through those hurdles with determination,reaffirmingmy commitmentto masteringthese challengingtechniquesno matterhow longit took.

And you know what?The payoffwasworth it.With each breakthroughcamea senseof accomplishmentand satisfactionknowingthat Ihad conqueredanew rhythmic frontier.Beingabletosuccessfullyincorporateelementsfromdifferentmusicalculturesinto mysoundopenedupendlesspossibilitiesforcreativityand self-expression,makingmeseejusthowlimitlessdrummingcan beifwearewillingtopushourselvestoexplorebeyondourcomfortzones.

So heresI am,determinedmore thaneverto continueonthismusicaljourneyofdiscovery.Forthereisalwaysanotherbeatanotherrhythmwaitingtobeunearthed,andIdohavethepatiencethatdeterminationtocapturethemall.So watchoutworld,RossFedermanisanewmanonaquesttoconquertheunknownandsurpriseeveryone(includinghimself)withwhathemaydiscoveralongtheway.Who knowswhatsonthenextpageofhisdrummersdiary?Onlytime(andlotsofpractice)willtell...


Chat with Ross Federman

And a bunch of other characters from your favorite shows, movies, history, books, and more.