The Top 10 Drum Books

Learning the Essentials

Introduction:

It’s your birthday! Congratulations!

You’ve just received an Amazon gift certificate and you’re trawling through the book section to find something that’ll improve your drum skills.

What do you go for? What should you work on next? Which book is going to make the biggest difference to your playing?

We all know that there are some great books out there but there are also some howlers – which to choose and which to avoid?

The Top 10 Drum Books

Over the past 20 years I’ve purchased my fair share of drum books – sight reading, play alongs, styles, solos and interdependence. You name it, I’ve got it. There are close to 100 books and dvd’s on the subject of music and drumming in my possession.

Some of them are amazing and really helped me and my students but others weren’t worth the paper they were printed on. With that in mind, I thought it would be cool to write a little guide on what I think are the best drum books of all time.

For me, the criteria for a good drum book is simple – was it easy to follow and did it have a significant impact on my playing. All of the books below tick both of these boxes. I hope that they work for you as well as they worked for me and my students:

“Stick Control” by George L. Stone is a widely acclaimed book for drummers, focusing on improving hand technique. It’s considered a fundamental resource for percussionists, offering a variety of exercises to develop dexterity, speed, strength, and control in stick handling.

The book primarily addresses rudiments and patterns essential for drumming, making it a staple for beginners and experienced players alike.

Its approach is systematic, starting with basic exercises and gradually increasing in complexity, thereby aiding drummers in mastering the nuances of stick control and precision.

“Syncopation” by Ted Reed is a classic drumming book that has been a staple in the education of drummers for many years. It’s particularly renowned for its versatility and can be used by beginners as well as advanced players.

The book focuses on teaching syncopation and rhythm through a series of exercises and studies. These exercises start simply and gradually increase in complexity, introducing the drummer to various rhythmic patterns and challenges.

One of the key strengths of “Syncopation” is its application across various styles of music, making it an invaluable resource for drummers looking to improve their versatility.

It covers a range of topics from basic syncopated rhythms to more complex and intricate patterns. The book is often used to teach drum set independence and coordination by having students apply the written rhythms to different limbs on the drum set.

This approach helps drummers develop a solid rhythmic foundation, improve their reading skills, and enhance their overall musicality.

“Advanced Techniques for the Modern Drummer” by Jim Chapin is a groundbreaking book, particularly noted for its focus on jazz and independence techniques.

This book is often regarded as the definitive work on the subject of jazz drumming, especially in the area of coordination and independence of the limbs while playing.

Chapin’s book introduces complex concepts and exercises designed to develop a drummer’s ability to play multiple rhythms simultaneously, a skill essential in jazz drumming.

It covers various aspects of jazz drumming including swing, syncopation, and the use of the hi-hat. The exercises are designed to challenge the drummer to maintain a steady rhythm with one limb while playing different patterns with the others, thus enhancing limb independence.

“Advanced Techniques for the Modern Drummer” is particularly famous for its detailed approach to teaching the intricacies of jazz drumming. It is not just about playing rhythms; it’s about understanding and internalizing the feel and subtleties of jazz.

This makes the book a must-have for drummers looking to delve into jazz or improve their jazz playing skills. Its influence is vast, and it’s often cited as a seminal work that has shaped the techniques of many modern drummers.

“Alfred’s Drum Method, Book 1” is a widely used instructional book for beginning drummers. This book is part of a comprehensive series designed to progressively teach the fundamentals of drumming. 

It is often recommended for those who are new to drumming or for instructors seeking a structured curriculum for their students.

The focus of Book 1 is on the basics of drumming. It starts with introducing the parts of the drum set, stick grip, and basic stroke techniques. 

The book then progresses to cover fundamental rhythms, drumming notation, and rudiments such as rolls, flams, and paradiddles.

A significant feature of this method book is its step-by-step approach, which allows for gradual skill development. It includes exercises and etudes that are designed to reinforce each new concept, ensuring that students build a solid foundation in drumming basics.

“Alfred’s Drum Method, Book 1” also emphasizes reading music, an essential skill for any drummer. It introduces and gradually incorporates various rhythmic figures and notation symbols, enabling students to become proficient in reading and interpreting drum music.

Additionally, the book covers various drumming styles and includes lessons on drum care and tuning, which are crucial for beginners to understand.

The book is often praised for its clarity, comprehensive content, and practical approach, making it an ideal choice for beginner drummers or as a resource for teaching the fundamentals of drumming.

“Modern Rudimental Swing Solos” by Charlie Wilcoxon is a great book, especially for those interested in rudimental drumming and swing music.

This book is known for its collection of solo pieces that blend traditional rudimental drumming with the swing style, making it unique and challenging.

Wilcoxon’s book is designed to help drummers develop their technical skills, particularly in the area of rudiments, while also learning to apply these skills musically in a swing context.

The solos in the book range in difficulty, allowing drummers of various skill levels to find pieces that challenge them appropriately.

A key feature of “Modern Rudimental Swing Solos” is its focus on musicality. The solos are not just technical exercises; they are musical pieces that require expression, dynamics, and a feel for swing.

This helps drummers to not only improve their technical prowess but also to develop as well-rounded musicians.

The book is often used by drummers who are looking to improve their skills in rudimental drumming, those interested in marching percussion, as well as drum set players who want to incorporate rudimental elements into their playing.

It’s a valuable resource for understanding how rudimental drumming techniques can be applied in a more musical and jazz-oriented setting.

 

“Buddy Rich’s Modern Interpretation of Snare Drum Rudiments,” co-authored by the legendary drummer Buddy Rich and Henry Adler, is a seminal work in the field of drumming.

This book stands out for its comprehensive approach to snare drum techniques and its focus on applying traditional rudiments in a modern context.

The book offers detailed guidance on the fundamental rudiments of snare drumming, such as rolls, paradiddles, and flams, and then progresses to demonstrate how these can be applied in a contemporary drumming context.

Rich’s expertise and unique style are evident throughout the book, as it encapsulates his innovative approach to drumming.

One of the key aspects of this book is its emphasis on technique and control. It includes exercises designed to improve hand speed, precision, and coordination, which are crucial for mastering the snare drum.

Additionally, the book addresses the application of these rudiments to the drum set, making it a valuable resource for drum set players as well.

Buddy Rich, known for his incredible technique and speed, imparts his insights and methodologies in this book, making it an essential resource for drummers seeking to refine their technical skills and understand the art of snare drum rudiments from one of the greatest drummers in history.

It’s suitable for drummers of all levels who wish to develop a solid foundation in rudimental drumming and apply these skills creatively in modern drum set playing.

“The New Breed” by Gary Chester is a revolutionary drumming book, highly esteemed for its innovative approach to developing independence and coordination for modern drummers.

Gary Chester, an accomplished studio drummer, designed this book to address the challenges faced by drummers in contemporary music settings.

The central concept of “The New Breed” is to train drummers to be able to play complex and independent rhythms with each limb. This level of independence is crucial for studio and session work, where versatility and adaptability are key.

Chester’s methods focus on developing the ability to play different patterns and rhythms simultaneously, a skill that is essential for professional-level drumming.

A unique aspect of this book is its emphasis on mental discipline and concentration. Chester’s exercises require drummers to not only physically execute complex rhythms but also to mentally process multiple rhythmic layers.

This holistic approach to drumming serves to enhance both technical skills and cognitive abilities in rhythm interpretation and execution.

“The New Breed” is renowned for its challenging nature, often recommended for intermediate to advanced drummers. It has been credited with helping many drummers break through plateaus in their playing, particularly in the realms of coordination and timekeeping.

The book is a staple in the library of many professional drummers and is considered a must-read for those aspiring to a career in studio or session drumming.

“Advanced Funk Studies: Creative Patterns for the Advanced Drummer” is a highly acclaimed book in the drumming community, specifically tailored for drummers looking to excel in funk music.

This book is known for its comprehensive approach to advanced funk rhythms and techniques, making it a favorite among drummers who wish to delve deep into the funk genre.

The author of the book presents a wide array of complex and creative funk patterns, along with detailed explanations and instructions on how to execute them.

The focus is on developing a deep understanding of funk rhythms and learning how to incorporate these into a drummer’s personal playing style. The exercises are designed to challenge drummers and push them to refine their groove, timing, and technical skills.

A key feature of “Advanced Funk Studies” is its emphasis on practical application. It includes numerous examples of funk beats and fills, and encourages drummers to experiment with these in various musical contexts.

This helps in not just learning the patterns, but also in understanding how to apply them creatively in a band setting or while improvising.

The book also explores the use of different drumming techniques, such as ghost notes, syncopation, and complex hi-hat patterns, which are integral to mastering the funk style.

It’s suited for intermediate to advanced drummers who have a solid foundation in drumming basics and are looking to specialize in funk or enhance their overall versatility and skill in this genre.

“Advanced Funk Studies” is celebrated for its role in educating and inspiring a generation of drummers to explore and innovate within the realm of funk drumming. It’s often recommended for those who aspire to develop a sophisticated and nuanced approach to funk music.

“The Art of Bop Drumming” by John Riley is a highly respected book in the drumming community, especially among those interested in jazz, specifically the bop style.

John Riley, an acclaimed drummer and educator, offers a comprehensive guide to mastering the techniques and concepts essential for bop drumming.

This book is celebrated for its thorough exploration of the bop genre, covering a range of topics from basic patterns to complex rhythmic structures.

It delves into the nuances of bop drumming, including swing feel, phrasing, and articulation, which are crucial for capturing the essence of the bop style.

Riley provides detailed instructions and exercises for developing coordination and independence, tailored specifically for the bop idiom. These exercises are designed to improve a drummer’s ability to play intricate rhythms and syncopations, which are characteristic of bop music.

“The Art of Bop Drumming” also includes discussions on the history and development of bop, giving readers a deeper understanding of the genre’s context and its influential artists.

This historical perspective enriches the learning experience, allowing drummers to appreciate the stylistic elements that define bop drumming.

Additionally, the book contains numerous transcriptions of drum solos and patterns played by legendary bop drummers, offering practical examples of the concepts discussed.

This aspect makes it a valuable resource for drummers looking to study and emulate the styles of the masters of bop drumming.

John Riley’s book is highly recommended for drummers who are serious about learning jazz drumming, particularly those aiming to specialize in the bop style.

It’s suitable for intermediate to advanced players who seek to deepen their understanding and proficiency in this challenging and rewarding genre of drumming.

“The Commandments of R&B Drumming” by Zoro is a spectacular instructional book, particularly celebrated for its focus on R&B (Rhythm and Blues) drumming.

Zoro, renowned as an accomplished drummer in the R&B and funk genres, provides an in-depth exploration of the various styles and techniques that are fundamental to R&B drumming.

The book serves as a comprehensive guide, covering the history and evolution of R&B drumming from its origins to contemporary styles. It delves into various sub-genres within R&B, such as soul, funk, hip-hop, and contemporary R&B, offering insights into the unique drumming approaches and techniques used in each.

One of the key strengths of “The Commandments of R&B Drumming” is its practical approach. Zoro includes a wealth of exercises and grooves that are designed to help drummers master the feel and nuances of R&B drumming.

These exercises range from basic to advanced levels, making the book suitable for drummers of different skill levels.

The book also emphasizes the importance of groove, feel, and pocket playing in R&B music. Zoro provides tips on how to develop a solid and soulful groove, an essential skill for any drummer looking to excel in R&B.

Additionally, the book includes anecdotes and advice from famous drummers and musicians, offering readers a broader perspective on the music industry and professional drumming.

“The Commandments of R&B Drumming” is not just a technical manual; it’s a journey through the rich history and cultural significance of R&B music.

It’s recommended for drummers who are passionate about R&B and wish to authentically learn and incorporate its rhythms and grooves into their playing. The book has been celebrated for its contribution to the education of drummers in the art of R&B drumming.

Summary

The list includes books that will improve your technique, sight-reading, inter-depedence, musicality and repertoire. No matter what style you play this selection will do wonders for you as a player, musician and educator if you choose to be one.

What matters most, however, is that you sit down with these books and practice, practice, practice.

When you finish a book – you’re not done with it.

You should go back and work through it again at various tempos and dynamic markings.

Each time your technique will improve, your understanding of rhythm will improve and your drum ninjaism will multiply 10 fold.

Good luck and spend your money wisely!

I’m crazy about drums, it’s been my passion since I was 12 years old. I played in numerous bands going through different styles like Rock, Progressive, Pop & Jazz-Rock. After being featured in major music publications (DrumeoGuitar GuitarAudioIssuesMusicThinkTank I started this website to share my knowledge and create a resource for drummers of all levels.

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