There are many ways to help guide a drummer as they learn to play a new song. Each method makes more sense depending on the setting and individual’s preference. For example, sheet music printed on manuscript paper for a percussionist in an orchestra, helpful reminders on a set list written on a paper plate at a dive bar, or even reading off a lead trumpet chart at a college big band rehearsal.
Sometimes, you get a call to fill in with less than a day’s notice, or your singer wants to try out a new song you haven’t even heard yet. Playing pick-up gigs and backing artists make these situations more common, and the best way to keep a gig is to be prepared.
In moments like these, it pays to be able to jot down a roadmap of a song quickly. Here are some tips on how to write a quick drum chart.
Important Information First
The top of your chart should establish important information to set you up for success before even counting off the song.
- Name of the song
- Name of the performer
- Tempo
- Time signature
- Is the feel straight or swung?
- Are there any unique gear requirements?
Most of my gigs involve playing songs in 4/4 time with a straight eighth note feel, rather than swinging. If I leave out the time signature and the description of the feel, the song is in 4/4 time with a straight eighth note feel.
Let the Introduction Tell the Story
The beginning of a song gets the listener’s attention. A groove is established, and the rest of the song follows. If the introduction of a song feels good, the greater the chance that the rest of the song will feel good.
Any instrument can start a song, and while drummers are often depended on to count off a tune, it’s important to note whether you are in or out at the top! The beginning is also a time to write down your first groove in its entirety, so it’s easy to reference if the section repeats later in the song.
(Picture of Introduction and a switch from closed high hats to partially open high hats)
Always indicate what section you are playing, whether it’s an introduction, if the song begins on a verse, chorus, or any other part.
Each time a new section is introduced, mark it down in your chart. If the only thing that changes from a verse to a chorus is switching from playing on your closed hi-hat to opening up your hi-hat a bit or switching to your ride cymbal, mark that change down!
If a completely new groove is introduced to the song in a new section, write it down in its entirety.
Related: How to start playing drums for beginners
The Song Goes on
When creating a quick chart, it’s best to avoid wasting time by rewriting sections already covered in your chart. I abbreviate words to save time and space, like in this solo section pictured below. The letter “G” signifies a guitar solo, “K” would stand for keyboard, and “PS” would stand for pedal steel in this instance.
But while we do this, it is crucial to keep your playing energy up. Each section of a song deserves equal attention, and while the chords may be the same from verse to verse, it is imperative to note any unique things that occur. Example: emphasis on key lyrics, changes in dynamics, or when to begin setting up the next section.
Each time a part is played differently, note what change takes place. You can elect whether to write a new part down verbatim or write a small note indicating the change.
Emphasize the Key Moments
As you complete your chart, be sure it highlights the correct areas of the song as it pertains to you. I use an asterisk with a circle around it to signify an important part, but any symbol that catches your eye would do the trick! Often, I use this to remind me of when I’m supposed to sing harmonies in less intuitive moments. When I draw a pair of glasses, it is a reminder to look up at my bandmates to be present and read their body language as we approach the end of a song.
As drummers, there may be sections where we are the only instrument playing. The most powerful moment of the song could be when we stop playing, and the song’s foundation is swept from beneath the audience’s feet.
All in all, make your chart so you can understand it. If you know certain parts of the song like the back of your hand, devote less time to those parts. This is by no means the law, this type of notation is open to interpretation and it’s not for everyone. This chart is a helpful road map and is intended to be a safety net to peek at to ensure that there are no train wrecks on stage.
Below is the full chart of “Perfect Girls of Pop” that I prepared for my first weekend out with outlaw country artist Elizabeth Cook. I had about a two-day window to learn the set, and this method was very helpful for me. Since then, I’ve been lucky to be on the drum seat for her for two-plus years.
