Program 01 / introducing quarter notes, counting explained

Welcome to Program 1 Counting explained

In this section I will explain how and why I count through the exercises.

In program 1 we are focusing on playing only quarter notes. We are counting in 4/4-time signature. The first 4 tells us how many beats there are in a bar and this is called the count. The second 4 tells us that the value of the notes we are counting are quarter notes. Quarter notes are also called crotchets. We count 1 through 4 on the beat in every bar. So, we count 1, 2, 3, 4 and repeat. This allows us to know where we are within any bar. Each number we count represents a quarter note.

This is a great starting point but you will hear me counting differently in the recordings. Counting 1 through 4 can get you lost over time.

Most music in 4/4 works in 4 bar melodies. I count in 4 bar groups for more knowledge of where I am in an exercise. This also works when counting through songs. I count the first bar as normal, counting 1 2 3 4. I count the second bar as 2 2 3 4. I count the third bar as 3 2 3 4. I count the fourth bar as 4 2 3 4. After 4 bars I repeat the cycle.

Another thing to take into consideration when counting is the BPM. BPM stands for beats per minute and is represented by a number. We will be working at 60, 70 and 80 BPM. So, this translates to 60, 70 or 80 quarter notes each minute.

When practicing my exercises I count out loud. By counting out loud you reinforce the muscle memory in your limbs. When playing with others I count in my head. Always count as you play so you don’t get lost.

Ultimately, we are looking to be able to drop any limb or combination of limbs on any number when we count it. Practicing your counting will make you a better drummer. So don’t be tempted to skip practicing your counting.