Your first grooves

The basic rock beat

Hi-hat on every eighth note. Kick on 1 and 3. Snare on 2 and 4. This is the most common drum beat in the world.

Four on the floor

The kick plays on every beat. The hi-hat plays on the “ands.” This is the beat of dance music and disco.

Half-time

The snare only plays on beat 3. It feels slow and heavy, even though the hi-hat is still fast.

How to practice a groove

1. One part at a time

   Play just the hi-hat. Then add the snare. Then add the kick.

2. Say it out loud

   Say “1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &” while you play. The count keeps you steady.

3. Slow and steady

   Use the tempo slider. A slow beat that stays steady is better than a fast one that rushes.

Can you…

• Play the basic rock beat
• Play four on the floor
• Keep a groove steady for one minute