Finding the Right Balance: Repetition and Creativity in Drumming

When it comes to drumming, mixing repetition with creativity is super important. It can really make your drumming stand out! I like to focus on three main ideas: Know the Motif, Change It Up, and Play with Volume.

1. Know the Motif: Before you start playing around, fully learn the motif. This could be a simple beat or a special rhythm pattern. Once you know it well, it becomes a solid base to build from. Play it a bunch of times until you feel good about it. Then, think about how you can change it a bit.

2. Change It Up: After you’ve got the motif, try making some changes:

   • Rhythmic Change: Switch up the notes. If you’re playing in eighth notes, try adding some sixteenth notes or triplets to mix things up.
   • Different Spots: Move the motif around your drum kit. Play it on different drums or cymbals for new sounds.
   • Make It Longer or Shorter: Instead of keeping the motif as two measures, try stretching it to three measures or squishing it down to one measure for something unexpected.

3. Play with Volume: This is where you can show your personality! Change how loud or soft you play the motif as you repeat it. Start quietly, build up to a loud spot, and then bring it back down. You can also add accents—like hitting the first note of the motif louder than the others—to keep your rhythms interesting.

And remember, don’t be afraid to have fun! Sometimes the best ideas come when you allow yourself to explore instead of just repeating. Think of the motif as your canvas. Repeating it gives it structure, while your creative changes bring it to life.

The goal is to create a feeling in your playing that connects with both you and your listeners. Enjoy blending those repeating patterns with your own style!