Free Drum Lessons

How You Have Your Fill

This lesson explores a foundational fill pattern and 5 variations of that pattern. Have fun exploring your own fills, changing them to create new sounds.

Nate's Grooves From - How You Have Your Fill

I had a big response from people enjoying the lesson but also interested in the grooves I played. This Monday's lesson, I'm giving the notation for those grooves and an explanation.

And You Thought I Didn't Paradiddle

Breaking up the paradiddle by placing half at the beginning of the measure and half at the end creates a unique sound because the natural repeat-feel of beat one conceals the paradiddle. This lesson explores the technique.

Crash Your Fill

This lesson explores the creation of a second layer using the crash cymbals. Often we get stuck into a rut of using the crash only to end a drum fill. Using the crash in a similar way that you would use a tom or snare creates a unique and fuller sound.

Crash Your Groove

Last week's lesson explored using the crash cymbals to create new levels and dimensions within drum fills. Another overlooked concept is including crashes to create new layers and dimensions in your drum beats. Who says crashes are only for drum filling? This lesson explores some ideas of adding crash cymbals to a foundational groove.

New Orleans Pocket Fill

In this lesson, learn a quick lick with a New Orleans kick... A great groove to add to your arsenal.

Sixteenth-Note Triplet Fill Pattern

This lesson explores some sixteenth-note triplet fill patterns to explore around the kit.

Kickin It and Fillin It

Learn a syncopated bass drum groove and fills to work out your bass drum foot. Perfect for those looking to improve their sixteenth-note bass drum phrasing.