Learning Drums: Playing ghost and grace notes

In this lesson from Zelus Academy’s online drums course, we’ll dive into playing a 4/4 beat with a standard sixteenth note groove, incorporating ghost notes and grace notes to add complexity and texture to your playing. Follow these steps to master this technique.

Start by establishing a standard sixteenth note groove. Play the pattern as 1-e-&-a-2-e-&-a-3-e-&-a-4-e-&-a, with your right hand on the hi-hat, your left hand hitting the snare on counts 2 and 4, and your kick drum on counts 1 and 3. This forms the basic structure of your groove.

To add more nuance, introduce ghost notes on the snare drum. These are soft, subtle strokes that enhance the rhythmic feel. Play ghost notes on the “e” and “a” of each quarter note (1–2–3–4). This means you’ll play ghost notes on the “e” and “a” of 1, 2, 3, and 4, adding a delicate layer to your groove.

Next, combine these ghost notes with grace notes. Focus on playing grace notes on the “a” of 4. Grace notes are quick, light strokes that precede the main note, creating a richer and more dynamic sound.

Practice this combination at a slower tempo to ensure accuracy and control. Start with a relaxed pace to internalize the feel of the ghost notes and grace notes, gradually increasing the speed as you become more comfortable.

Zelus Academy’s drums online learning program provides detailed video tutorials and step-by-step guidance for mastering these techniques. Join our online drums course today to enhance your drumming skills and bring your playing to the next level! Continue reading
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