Drum Solo Tip- Utilize Space

It is mind blowing at times the incredible speed and power some drummers demonstrate in their solos and performances. Being faster, more consistent, and jaw-dropping, is what many drummers strive for. However, I have learned that silence within a solo is just as important as times you play. Some of my own tips for utilizing space, or at least things to think about, would be how you transition between sections of your solo. By pausing longer, or shorter, you are making a decision about how much space, or silence, you want within the section. Stops, or “choking” the cymbal, produces a great effect in that you have the power of a crash that abruptly stops. You can take this further by stopping on off beats, or alternating crashing and choking in succession between cymbals. As always, it helps tremendously to see these things in action, so I’ve included a clip of an amazing drummer, Scott Pellegrom, who actually taught my current drum teacher in previous years. Enjoy.

Advertisement