It’s nearly Friday again–I’m busy tomorrow, so today’s drill comes to you one day early!
Let’s continue with the pattern we started last week.
Focus: Rhythm, Dexterity
Watch For:
1. Check out your base hand in a mirror or with a video recording. Does it change over time or in specific places, or is it consistent?
2. When the number of hits increases, your speed may run away, too. Keep the tempo steady with a metronome!
Okay, so we learned the first 5 lines of the pattern last week. Remember that your base hand keeps the down beat by playing for each number you see. Anything that’s bold is where your other hand should strike.
Line 6: 1 & 2 & 3 & 4 & 5 & 6 & 7 & 8 &
Line 7-9:1 & 2 & 3 & 4 & 5 & 6 & 7 & 8 &
Line 10: 1 & 2 & 3 & 4 & 5 & 6 & 7 & 8 &
Line 11: 1 &2 & 3 & 4 & 5 & 6 & 7 & 8 &
I know, it looks confusing. Here are some tips: Lines 6-9 are exactly the same except the first time the “1” is not played. Line 11 is the same as lines 7-9!
In the video below, I’ll play 8 beats to start, followed by lines 6-11. Then I’ll play the whole pattern once from Line 1. We’ll finish the pattern next week!
Extension:
Switch the roles your hands are playing with this drill. Which side feels more comfortable? What can you do to make them feel equal? I practice twice as much where I’m most uncomfortable, but if you do this, make sure to note your progress and balance out your practice schedule accordingly over time.
(Keep in mind that I’m just talking about balancing technique, not strength.)