Over the years I have collected a number of recurring combinations that I have noticed were universally used by great drummers, and which proved to be invaluable tools to make hands and feet work perfectly together. We could think of these empowering groupings as the ‘stick control’ of coordination, since they use the same principles: combining and developing basic cells to build up control.

No matter how hard we have worked to boost our timing skills, we still have to deal with the fact that we’ll never reach absolute perfection of execution. In this article we explore a series of powerful techniques and concepts to clean up any rough edges, make our inner pulse more solid and definite, and keep time like a true pro.

Who said that the Drum Set must be played only with sticks? There are so many more beaters to be discovered, which allow for a virtually infinite number of sonic combinations. So let's check out a few unusual beats that utilize brushes, hot rods, mallets, shakers, jingle sticks and even small percussions, to create original rhythmic soundscapes and inspire you to experiment with these fascinating possibilities.

After having discovered the theory behind playing ahead or behind the beat in Part 1 of this series, and having practiced the exercises from Part 2 to develop the skills needed, in this final chapter we are going to check out a few examples from records where we can hear these techniques at work, which is one of the most effective ways to train our ears to recognize each variation and the associated sensations.

Once we have a clear understanding of the foundational concepts involved in playing ahead or behind the beat, it's time to start practicing. In this detailed step-by-step program in 3 levels you are going to discover powerful exercises and techniques that will take you from zero to master of the ability to lean on the backside of the beat or push it a little.

Playing ahead or behind the beat has always been kind of a mysterious concept among drummers :-). In this multi series article we go deep and explore the topic dividing it in three areas: theory, exercises and examples. This first part focuses on the mechanics behind timing nuances, to set the foundation of the work that needs to be done to master this advanced skill.