Learning Drums: Playing a beat – quarter note grooves

 In Zelus Academy’s online drums course, you’ll learn the essential rhythms that form the foundation of drumming. Two classic grooves that are fundamental to your drumming repertoire are the Classic Two Note Groove and the Waltz Beat.

Classic Two Note Groove:

1. Count 1: Play a single stroke on the hi-hat and kick drum together.
2. Count 2: Follow with a single stroke on the hi-hat and snare drum together.
3. Count 3 and 4: Repeat the pattern with the hi-hat and kick drum on count 3, and the hi-hat and snare drum on count 4.

Waltz Beat:

1. Count 1: Play a single stroke on the hi-hat and kick drum together.
2. Counts 2 and 3: Play single strokes on the hi-hat and snare drum together.

Practical Tips:

• Slow Tempo: Start practicing at a slower tempo to ensure precision and consistency in your playing.
• Metronome: Use a metronome to maintain a steady rhythm and improve your timing.
• Gradual Increase: Gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable with each groove.

Exercise:

1. Warm-Up: Begin with basic single strokes on the hi-hat to get a feel for the rhythm.
2. Classic Two Note Groove: Incorporate the kick drum and snare drum as described, practicing each step slowly and steadily.
3. Waltz Beat: Shift to the waltz pattern, focusing on the distinctive three-count rhythm and maintaining the steady pulse on the hi-hat.

By mastering these grooves, you’ll build a strong foundation in drumming. Zelus Academy’s online drums course offers comprehensive lessons, detailed demonstrations, and personalized feedback from experienced instructors to help you progress effectively.

Enroll in Zelus Academy’s online drums course today and elevate your drumming skills with structured learning and expert guidance. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your technique, our course is designed to help you achieve your musical goals.Continue reading

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Learning Drums: Having fun playing eighth note grooves

 In Zelus Academy’s online drums course, understanding the basics of note values is crucial for building a solid drumming foundation. Here's how we break it down:

Quarter Notes:

• Counting: Quarter notes are counted as “1-2-3-4.”
• Playing: Play each count with a consistent beat on the kick drum or snare drum.

Eighth Notes:

• Counting: Eighth notes are counted as “1-&-2-&-3-&-4-&.”
• Playing: Alternate between the hi-hat and snare drum to maintain a steady groove.

Standard Eighth Note Groove:

1. Hi-Hat: Play the hi-hat on every eighth note (1-&-2-&-3-&-4-&).
2. Snare Drum: Hit the snare on counts 2 and 4.
3. Kick Drum: Add the kick drum on counts 1 and 3.

Improvising with the Four on the Floor Beat:

1. Basic Groove:
   • Maintain the eighth note groove on the hi-hat.
   • Add the snare on counts 2 and 4.
2. Four on the Floor:
   • Play the kick drum on every beat (1-2-3-4).
   • Combine the kick drum with the hi-hat and snare drum on counts 2 and 4.

Practical Tips:

• Slow Tempo: Start practicing at a slow tempo to ensure accuracy and consistency.
• Metronome: Use a metronome to keep a steady rhythm and improve timing.
• Gradual Increase: Gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable with the groove.

Exercise:

1. Warm-Up: Begin with quarter notes on the kick drum to get a feel for the basic rhythm.
2. Transition: Move to eighth notes on the hi-hat, keeping the quarter note pulse on the kick drum.
3. Combine: Add the snare drum on counts 2 and 4, then incorporate the four on the floor beat by adding the kick drum on all counts.

By following these steps, you will master the standard eighth note groove and enhance your ability to improvise with the four on the floor beat. Our online drums course at Zelus Academy provides comprehensive lessons and personalized feedback from experienced instructors, ensuring you progress effectively in your drumming journey.

Enroll in Zelus Academy’s online drums course today and elevate your drumming skills with structured learning and expert guidance. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player, our course is designed to help you achieve your musical goals. Continue reading 

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Learning Drums: Understanding the world of eighth and sixteenth note fills

 In Zelus Academy's online drums course, you’ll learn how to orchestrate dynamic fills using eighth and sixteenth note grooves. Here’s a guide to mastering these techniques:

Counting and Playing Eighth Notes:

• Eighth Note Groove: Count as “1-&-2-&-3-&-4-&.”
• Eighth Note Fill: Add fills on “3-&-4-&.”

Steps to Practice Eighth Note Fills:

1. Basic Groove:

   • Play a steady eighth note groove on the hi-hat.
   • Add the kick drum on counts 1 and 3.
   • Play the snare drum on counts 2 and 4.

2. Orchestrating the Fill:

   • On “3-&-4-&,” move your right hand to play single strokes on the snare, hi-tom, mid-tom, and floor-tom.
   • Ensure the kick drum hits on every right-hand stroke.

Counting and Playing Sixteenth Notes:

• Sixteenth Note Groove: Count as “1-e-&-a-2-e-&-a-3-e-&-a-4-e-&-a.”
• Sixteenth Note Fill: Add fills on “4-e-&-a.”

Steps to Practice Sixteenth Note Fills:

1. Basic Groove:

   • Play a steady sixteenth note groove on the hi-hat.
   • Add the kick drum on counts 1 and 3.
   • Play the snare drum on counts 2 and 4.

2. Orchestrating the Fill:

   • On “4-e-&-a,” move your right hand to play single strokes on the snare, hi-tom, mid-tom, and floor-tom.
   • Ensure the kick drum hits on every right-hand stroke.

Tips for Mastery:

• Start Slow: Begin at a slow tempo to ensure accuracy and even spacing between notes.
• Use a Metronome: This helps maintain a steady rhythm and timing.
• Gradual Tempo Increase: Increase the tempo as you become more comfortable with the fills.

By practicing these techniques, you will enhance your ability to add creative and rhythmic fills to your drumming. Zelus Academy’s online drums course provides detailed instructions and interactive lessons to help you master these skills. Our experienced instructors offer personalized feedback, ensuring you progress efficiently in your drumming journey.

Enroll in Zelus Academy’s online drums course today and take your drumming skills to the next level. With our comprehensive curriculum and expert guidance, you’ll be orchestrating impressive fills with confidence and precision. Continue reading

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Learning Drums: Getting creative around triplets

 Understanding rhythm and counting is fundamental in drumming. In Zelus Academy’s online drums course, we emphasize mastering different note values and grooves to build a strong rhythmic foundation. Here’s a guide to help you learn how to count and play triplet grooves:

Counting Triplets:

Triplets divide a beat into three equal parts, providing a distinct rhythmic feel. The counting method for triplets is “1-trip-let, 2-trip-let, 3-trip-let, 4-trip-let.” To internalize this rhythm, start by clapping:

• First Clap: On “1”
• Second Clap: On “Trip”
• Third Clap: On “Let”

Repeat this sequence for each beat in a measure.

Practice Steps:

Clap It Out:

• Begin by clapping the triplet rhythm. Count out loud as you clap: “1-trip-let, 2-trip-let, 3-trip-let, 4-trip-let.” This helps in internalizing the triplet feel.

Apply to Drums:

• Hi-Hat: Play the triplets on the hi-hat while maintaining the “1-trip-let, 2-trip-let, 3-trip-let, 4-trip-let” count.
• Snare and Kick: Integrate the snare drum on the “let” of each triplet and the kick drum on the “1” of each triplet.

Full Groove:

• Combine the triplet hi-hat pattern with alternating snare and kick. For example:
• Kick on “1”
• Hi-hat on “trip”
• Snare on “let”

Practice Regularly:

• Consistent practice helps in mastering the triplet groove. Use a metronome to keep time and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable.

Tips for Mastery:

• Focus on Consistency: Ensure each note is evenly spaced.
• Start Slow: Begin at a slower tempo and gradually increase speed.
• Use a Metronome: This helps in maintaining a steady rhythm.

Zelus Academy’s online drums course offers detailed lessons and interactive tutorials to help you master these rhythms. Our experienced instructors provide personalized feedback, ensuring you understand and excel in your drumming journey.

Enroll in Zelus Academy’s online drums course today to enhance your rhythmic skills and gain confidence in your playing. With our comprehensive approach, you’ll be well on your way to mastering triplet grooves and more. Continue reading

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Learning Drums: Playing around the kit – time to have some fun

In Zelus Academy's online drums course, mastering grooves and fills is essential for building your drumming foundation. Here’s a detailed practice guide to help you refine your technique:

1. Eighth Note Groove: Begin by playing a steady eighth note groove on the hi-hat for an entire bar. Keep a consistent tempo, focusing on clean and even strokes. Count out loud: "1-&-2-&-3-&-4-&." Add the snare drum on counts 2 and 4, and the kick drum on counts 1 and 3.

2. Transition to Fill: After the bar of eighth notes, transition into an eighth note or sixteenth note fill. Slow down the tempo to ensure precision and clarity in your playing. Count the sixteenth notes as "1-e-&-a-2-e-&-a-3-e-&-a-4-e-&-a."

3. Adding Kick Drum: Integrate the kick drum on every right-hand single stroke rudiment within the fill. For example, if you’re playing a right-left-right-left pattern on the snare and toms, add the kick drum on each right-hand stroke.

4. Eighth Note Fill Example:

   • Snare drum: "1-&"
   • Hi-tom: "2-&"
   • Mid-tom: "3-&"
   • Floor-tom: "4-&"
   • Add the kick drum on "1-2-3-4" along with each right-hand stroke.

5. Sixteenth Note Fill Example:

   • Snare drum: "1-e"
   • Hi-tom: "&-a"
   • Mid-tom: "2-e"
   • Floor-tom: "&-a"
   • Add the kick drum on "1-&-2-&" along with each right-hand stroke.

6. Returning to Groove: Smoothly transition back into the eighth note groove after completing the fill to maintain the flow of your playing.

Zelus Academy's online drums course provides comprehensive lessons, interactive tutorials, and expert feedback to help you master these techniques. With structured practice and personalized guidance, you'll develop the skills to confidently execute various rhythms and fills.

Enroll in Zelus Academy's online drums course today and elevate your drumming skills. Our experienced instructors and supportive community are dedicated to helping you achieve your musical goals, ensuring you progress with confidence and proficiency. Continue reading

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Learning Drums:Playing triplet fills – how to improvise!

 In Zelus Academy's online drums course, mastering different grooves and fills is essential for enhancing your drumming versatility. Here's a step-by-step guide to practicing an eighth note groove followed by a triplet fill:

1. Eighth Note Groove: Start by playing a steady eighth note groove on the hi-hat for an entire bar. Keep a consistent tempo and focus on clean, even strokes. Count out loud as you play: "1-&-2-&-3-&-4-&."

2. Triplet Fill Introduction: After completing the bar of eighth notes, transition into a triplet fill. Count the triplets as "1-trip-let-2-trip-let-3-trip-let-4-trip-let" to maintain accurate timing.

3. Orchestrating the Fill: Distribute the triplets across the snare drum, hi-tom, mid-tom, and floor-tom. For example:

   • Snare drum on "1-trip-let"
   • Hi-tom on "2-trip-let"
   • Mid-tom on "3-trip-let"
   • Floor-tom on "4-trip-let"

4. Changing Leading Hand: During the fill, change your leading hand to improve coordination and develop ambidexterity. If you start the fill with your right hand, switch to your left hand for the next triplet group, and vice versa.

5. Returning to the Groove: After completing the triplet fill, smoothly transition back into the eighth note groove to maintain the flow of your playing.

Our online drums course at Zelus Academy offers detailed lessons, interactive tutorials, and expert feedback to help you master these techniques. Through structured practice and personalized guidance, you'll develop the skills needed to confidently execute various rhythms and fills.

Enroll in Zelus Academy's online drums course today and elevate your drumming prowess. Our experienced instructors and supportive community are dedicated to helping you achieve your musical goals, ensuring you progress with confidence and proficiency. Continue reading

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Learning Drums: Challenging yourself with sixteenth note grooves

 In Zelus Academy’s online drums course, understanding and mastering rhythmic subdivisions is crucial for developing your drumming skills. Let’s break down how to play a sixteenth note groove from an eighth note beat:

1. Subdivision Basics: Begin by dividing an eighth note into two equal parts, resulting in sixteenth notes. This subdivision creates a more complex and dynamic rhythm.
2. Counting Sixteenth Notes: To play a 4/4 beat in sixteenth notes, count out loud as follows: “1-e-&-a-2-e-&-a-3-e-&-a-4-e-&-a.” This method helps you internalize the timing and feel of sixteenth notes.
3. Hi-Hat Practice: Start by playing the sixteenth note groove on the hi-hat. Focus on maintaining a steady tempo and even spacing between notes. This exercise helps build precision and control.
4. Switch to Double-Handed Technique: Once you feel comfortable with single-handed sixteenth notes, switch to playing double-handed sixteenth notes on the hi-hat. This involves alternating strokes between your right and left hands, which increases speed and fluidity.

Our online drums course at Zelus Academy offers comprehensive lessons, interactive tutorials, and personalized feedback to help you master these techniques. Through our structured curriculum, you’ll gain the skills needed to confidently play various rhythms and grooves.

Join Zelus Academy’s online drums course today and take your drumming to the next level. Our expert instructors and supportive community are here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring you develop the proficiency and confidence to excel in your drumming journey.  Continue reading

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Learning Drums: Getting comfortable with the cross-stick

In Zelus Academy’s online drums course, mastering proper grip and positioning is essential for achieving the best sound and control. Here’s how to find the optimal snare drum grip and positioning:

1. Wrist Position: Rest your wrist on the center of the snare drum head. This ensures stability and control over your strokes.
2. Drumstick Support: Place the drumstick under your palm, supported by your little finger. This grip helps maintain balance and precision while playing.
3. Thumb and Index Finger Grip: Grip the shoulder of the drumstick with your thumb and index finger. This allows for a secure hold and greater control over your strokes.
4. Finding the Sweet Spot: Experiment to find the sweet spot on the rim of the snare drum. This spot will give you the best tone and response when striking the drum.

Practicing this technique will enhance your drumming skills, ensuring you can produce clean and powerful strokes with minimal effort. Our online learning platform provides detailed video lessons, step-by-step tutorials, and personalized feedback to help you perfect your grip and positioning.

By enrolling in Zelus Academy’s online drums course, you’ll have access to expert instruction and a structured curriculum designed to help you achieve your drumming goals. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced drummer, our course offers the tools and support you need to succeed. Join our online drums course today and elevate your drumming skills to new heights! Continue reading 

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Learning Drums: Switching to the ride cymbal

In Zelus Academy’s online drums course, you’ll learn to play a variety of grooves, enhancing your rhythmic versatility. Let’s dive into the specifics of an eighth note groove and a 6/8 groove, both essential for any drummer’s repertoire.

Eighth Note Groove:

1. Ride Cymbal Pattern: Play the ride cymbal on counts 1–2–3–4.
2. Ride Bell Accents: Add accents on the bell of the ride cymbal on the “&” of 1–2–3–4.
3. Snare Drum Placement: Hit the snare drum on counts 2 and 4.
4. Kick Drum Foundation: Place the kick drum on counts 1 and 3.

This groove helps you develop coordination and timing, as you’ll need to manage playing different parts of the ride cymbal while maintaining a steady backbeat with the snare and kick drum.

6/8 Groove:

1. Counting and Ride Cymbal: Start by counting from 1 to 6, and play the ride cymbal on every count.
2. Kick Drum Timing: Play the kick drum on count 1.
3. Snare Drum Placement: Hit the snare drum on count 4.

This groove introduces you to the unique feel of 6/8 time, which is commonly used in various musical styles. Practicing this pattern will enhance your ability to adapt to different time signatures and rhythms.

By enrolling in Zelus Academy’s comprehensive online drums course, you’ll gain access to step-by-step tutorials, detailed video lessons, and personalized feedback. This structured approach ensures you master these grooves and many more, building a solid foundation in drumming. Our online learning platform is designed to accommodate learners of all levels, from beginners to advanced drummers, providing the tools and support you need to succeed. Join our online drums course today and take your drumming skills to the next level!  Continue reading

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Learning Drums: Get your foot game strong

In Zelus Academy’s online drums course, you’ll learn essential pedal techniques to enhance your drumming proficiency. Mastering both the heel down and heel up techniques for the kick drum pedal is crucial for developing control and versatility in your playing.

For the heel down technique, begin by placing your heel firmly on the plate of the kick drum pedal. This method provides precise control over the pedal and is ideal for playing softer, more controlled strokes. It allows you to maintain a relaxed foot position while exerting consistent pressure on the pedal. Practicing this technique helps in achieving subtle dynamics and nuanced rhythms, making it suitable for genres requiring delicate footwork.

In contrast, the heel up technique requires a different approach. Push down on the front of the pedal with your toes, allowing your heel to remain relaxed but not in contact with the pedal. This method generates more power and is perfect for louder, more aggressive playing. By lifting your heel, you can leverage your entire leg weight to create a stronger impact, which is essential for genres that demand a more forceful kick drum sound.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to mastering these techniques:

1. Heel Down Technique:

• Place your heel firmly on the plate of the kick drum pedal.
• Use the ball of your foot to press down on the pedal.
• Practice maintaining a relaxed foot position while controlling the pedal’s movement.

1. Heel Up Technique:

• Position your toes on the front of the pedal.
• Keep your heel elevated and relaxed, not touching the pedal.
• Use the weight of your leg to push down on the pedal, generating more power.

By enrolling in Zelus Academy’s comprehensive online drums course, you’ll receive detailed instructions, video tutorials, and personalized feedback to help you master these kick drum pedal techniques. Our structured and supportive learning environment ensures that you develop the skills needed to become a versatile and dynamic drummer. Join our online learning community today and elevate your drumming to new heights! Continue reading 

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Learning Drums: Exploring the open hi-hat

 In Zelus Academy’s online drums course, you’ll learn to enhance your drumming technique and musicality through structured exercises and expert guidance. One key exercise to master is playing an eighth note groove at a slower tempo.

Begin by setting a comfortable, slower tempo on your metronome. Play the kick drum on counts 1 and 3, and the snare drum on counts 2 and 4. This basic kick-snare pattern provides a strong rhythmic foundation and is essential for many musical styles.

Next, incorporate the hi-hat into your groove. On the “&” of count 4, open the hi-hat. This simple technique adds a layer of complexity and musicality to your drumming. The open hi-hat on the “&” of 4 creates a dynamic change in the groove, providing a lift or emphasis that can enhance the overall feel of the rhythm.

Experiment with changing the feel of the groove at any given count using the open hi-hat technique. For instance, try opening the hi-hat on different counts within the measure to see how it affects the groove’s feel and flow. This experimentation helps you develop a deeper understanding of timing and dynamics.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Set a slower tempo on your metronome.
2. Play the kick drum on counts 1 and 3.
3. Play the snare drum on counts 2 and 4.
4. Open the hi-hat on the “&” of count 4.
5. Experiment with opening the hi-hat on different counts to change the feel of the groove.

Through Zelus Academy’s comprehensive online learning platform, you will receive detailed lessons, video tutorials, and personalized feedback, ensuring you master these essential drumming techniques. Enroll in our online drums course today to take your drumming skills to the next level with our structured and supportive learning environment Continue reading

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Learning Drums: Getting creative with the hi-hat

In Zelus Academy’s online drums course, you’ll master the fundamental techniques to enhance your drumming proficiency. A key exercise is playing the standard eighth note groove, which lays the foundation for more complex rhythms.

To begin, play single strokes on the ride cymbal with your right hand, maintaining a steady eighth note pattern. This creates the backbone of the groove. Next, incorporate the hi-hat foot on beats 2 and 4, aligning with the snare drum hits. This coordination between the hi-hat and snare provides a solid backbeat essential for many styles of music.

While keeping the hi-hat on beats 2 and 4, maintain the kick drum pattern on beats 1 and 3. This basic kick-snare-hat combination forms the core of the standard rock groove, offering a strong rhythmic foundation.

To add variety and depth to your playing, experiment with downbeats and upbeats. Play with the timing and placement of your strokes to create different rhythmic feels. For example, accentuate the downbeats (1, 2, 3, 4) to emphasize the primary pulse, or focus on the upbeats (the “&” counts) to create a more syncopated groove.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Play single strokes on the ride cymbal with your right hand in an eighth note pattern.
2. Add the hi-hat foot on beats 2 and 4, coinciding with the snare drum hits.
3. Keep the kick drum pattern steady on beats 1 and 3.
4. Experiment with downbeats and upbeats to vary the groove and enhance your rhythmic creativity.

Through Zelus Academy’s comprehensive online learning platform, you’ll receive detailed lessons, video tutorials, and expert feedback, ensuring you master these essential drumming techniques. Enroll in our online drums course today and take your drumming skills to the next level with our structured and supportive learning environment. Continue reading

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Learning Drums: Accents and regular notes

In Zelus Academy’s online drums course, we delve into advanced techniques to enhance your drumming skills. One such technique is playing a sixteenth note groove on the snare drum, incorporating accents to add dynamics and complexity to your playing.

To start, play a continuous sixteenth note pattern on the snare drum (1-e-&-a, 2-e-&-a, 3-e-&-a, 4-e-&-a). Focus on alternating accents or loud notes on any of the sixteenth notes. For instance, you can accentuate the “1” on the first beat, the “e” on the second beat, the “&” on the third beat, and the “a” on the fourth beat. This variation helps to develop control and precision.

Once you are comfortable with this, integrate the kick drum. Begin by adding a loud accented note with the kick drum on count 1. Following this, continue playing regular single strokes on the e, &, and a of count 1 with your right hand. This combination of accented and non-accented notes creates a dynamic groove that is both interesting and challenging.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

1. Maintain a steady sixteenth note groove on the snare drum.
2. Alternate accents on the snare drum on any of the notes (1-e-&-a).
3. Add the kick drum on count 1 with a loud accented note.
4. Follow with regular single strokes on the e, &, and a of count 1 with your right hand.

Practicing this groove will not only improve your timing and coordination but also add a new level of sophistication to your drumming. Zelus Academy’s online learning platform provides detailed lessons, video tutorials, and expert feedback to help you master these techniques.

Enroll in our online drums course today and elevate your drumming skills to new heights with comprehensive, step-by-step guidance from experienced instructors!  Continue reading

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Learning Drums: Learning to shuffle - an advanced groove

In Zelus Academy’s online drums course, we explore various grooves to enhance your drumming skills. One essential groove is the shuffle groove, which is inspired by triplets (1-trip-let, 2-trip-let, 3-trip-let, 4-trip-let). Mastering the shuffle requires understanding the rhythmic pattern and practicing the correct timing.

To play a shuffle groove, rest on the “trip” of each triplet grouping and play the remaining notes. This results in a pattern where you play (1-rest-let, 2-rest-let, 3-rest-let, 4-rest-let). The key to mastering this groove is to focus on the swing feel, which gives the shuffle its distinctive rhythm and drive.

Here’s how to break it down:

1. Start by counting the triplets out loud: “1-trip-let, 2-trip-let, 3-trip-let, 4-trip-let.”
2. On the “trip” of each triplet, rest your sticks, allowing a brief pause.
3. Play the “1-let, 2-let, 3-let, 4-let” notes with a consistent and smooth motion.

To internalize the shuffle groove, practice slowly at first, gradually increasing your speed as you become more comfortable with the pattern. Use a metronome to maintain a steady tempo and ensure accuracy.

Incorporate this groove into your playing by experimenting with different variations and fills. Zelus Academy’s drums online learning platform offers detailed lessons and expert guidance to help you perfect the shuffle groove and integrate it seamlessly into your drumming repertoire.

Join our online drums course today to unlock the full potential of your drumming skills and groove with confidence Continue reading

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Learning Drums: Improvising with flame and drags

 In this lesson from Zelus Academy’s online drums course, we’ll explore two essential rudiments: the flame and the drag. These techniques add dynamic expression and complexity to your drumming, enhancing your overall skill set.

Start with the flam. To play a flam, perform two single strokes: one with your right hand followed closely by one with your left hand. The key is to maintain a slight space between these two notes. The first stroke (the grace note) should be softer and quicker, leading directly into the second stroke (the primary note). Practicing flame will improve your timing and control, adding a unique accent to your drumming patterns.

Next, let’s move on to the drag. To play a drag, perform two quick sixteenth notes, leading with your right hand. The drag consists of two grace notes followed by a primary stroke. The grace notes should be played very close together, almost like a buzz, before the main stroke. This creates a rolling effect that adds texture and fluidity to your playing.

To master these techniques, incorporate them into your practice routine. Start slowly to ensure precision and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable. Use a metronome to help maintain consistent timing and spacing between the notes.

Zelus Academy’s drums online learning program offers detailed video tutorials and personalized guidance to help you perfect these rudiments. Join our online drums course today to expand your drumming repertoire and elevate your performance to new heights! Continue reading 

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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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Learning Drums : Using rudiments in fills

 In this lesson from Zelus Academy’s online drums course, you’ll learn to play a sixteenth note groove and orchestrate various fills across the drum kit. Let’s break it down step-by-step.

Start by playing a sixteenth note groove. Use your right hand to play sixteenth notes on the hi-hat, while your left hand hits the snare on counts 2 and 4. Add the kick drum on counts 1 and 3 to create a solid foundation.

After playing this groove for one bar, transition to orchestrating fills. Begin with single strokes (RLRL) across the snare drum, hi-tom, mid-tom, and floor tom. This basic sticking pattern helps you move around the drum kit smoothly.

Next, try double strokes (RRLL). Play these across the same drums, focusing on even, controlled strokes to maintain consistency and clarity.

Then, incorporate single paradiddles (RLRR LRLL). Use the paradiddle sticking to move around the snare, hi-tom, mid-tom, and floor tom, creating interesting and complex rhythmic patterns.

End your fill with a crash on the first beat of the following bar, providing a strong, definitive transition back into the groove.

Zelus Academy’s drums online learning program offers detailed instructions and demonstrations for each of these steps, ensuring you master the groove and fills with confidence. Join our online drums course today to elevate your drumming skills and explore the full potential of your drum kit! Continue reading

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Learning Drums: Get ready to disco

 In this lesson from Zelus Academy’s online drums course, you’ll learn to play a standard eighth note groove and enhance it with some advanced techniques. Let’s break it down step-by-step.

First, start by playing a standard eighth note groove. Use your right hand to play steady eighth notes on the hi-hat, while your left hand hits the snare on counts 2 and 4. This forms the basic foundation of your rhythm.

Next, add the kick drum on counts 1, 2, 3, and 4 — a pattern commonly known as the “four on the floor” beat. This consistent kick drum pattern provides a solid, driving rhythm that is fundamental in many music genres.

To add some complexity, open the hi-hat with your left foot on the “&” of counts 1, 2, 3, and 4. This creates an off-beat accent that adds a dynamic texture to your groove. Practice coordinating this with your hand and foot movements to maintain a steady rhythm.

Finally, experiment with broken 16th notes on the hi-hat. Instead of playing constant eighth notes, mix in 16th notes to create varied, intricate patterns. This technique adds a layer of sophistication and rhythmic interest to your drumming.

Through Zelus Academy’s drums online learning program, you’ll receive detailed instructions and demonstrations for each of these steps, ensuring you master the groove with confidence. Join our online drums course today to take your drumming skills to the next level! Continue reading

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Learning Drums: Getting it all together - a recap

 Playing the drums, from picking up your very first drumstick to perfecting rhythms like the classic two-time beat and the Waltz groove, is an incredible journey of creativity. In Zelus Academy’s online drums course, you’ll embark on this musical adventure, guided step-by-step through each essential skill.

Our drums online learning platform ensures you master the basics, starting with how to hold the drumsticks correctly. From there, you’ll dive into foundational techniques, learning how to produce clear, crisp sounds on your drum set. The course then progresses to more complex rhythms and grooves, including the versatile two-time beat and the elegant Waltz groove.

Throughout this online drums course, you’ll engage with interactive lessons, practice exercises, and expert demonstrations. You’ll receive personalized feedback to help you refine your technique and develop your unique style. By the end of the course, you’ll have a solid foundation and the confidence to play a wide range of beats and grooves.

Let’s recap everything we have learned in this blog post. From the basics of handling drumsticks to mastering complex rhythms, Zelus Academy’s drums online learning program provides comprehensive, creative, and engaging lessons to make your drumming journey exciting and fulfilling. Enroll today and start making music! Continue reading 

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Badminton: A brief introduction to the sport

 In Zelus Academy’s online badminton course, you will learn all the essentials of the game, including match formats, scoring, and equipment. A standard match consists of the best of 3 games, with each game played to 21 points. This structure is used across five formats: men’s singles, women’s singles, men’s doubles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles.

Understanding the equipment is also crucial. The primary tools of the game are the racquet and the shuttlecock. Shuttlecocks come in two types: plastic and feathered, with the latter made from duck or goose feathers. Each type has its own characteristics, affecting speed, flight, and durability.

Zelus Academy’s online badminton course provides comprehensive tutorials on these fundamentals, ensuring you understand the nuances of different match formats and the importance of choosing the right equipment.

Our online learning platform offers detailed lessons, practical exercises, and expert insights to help you master the game. Whether you’re playing singles or doubles, you’ll receive personalized feedback to improve your skills and performance.

Enroll in Zelus Academy’s badminton online learning program to gain a deeper understanding of the game and enhance your competitive edge. Continue reading

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Badminton: Choose the right grip and make every shot a winner

 In Zelus Academy’s online badminton course, understanding and mastering the different grips is fundamental to improving your game. Here are four essential grips to use depending on the shuttlecock’s position:

1. Basic or V-Grip: Use this grip when the shuttlecock is level with your body. It offers versatility and control for various strokes.
2. Thumb Grip: Ideal for backhand strokes performed in front of your body. This grip provides leverage and precision for effective backhand shots.
3. Corner Grip: When the shuttlecock is to the side or slightly behind you, the corner grip ensures better reach and control, allowing you to execute angled shots effectively.
4. Panhandle Grip: Use this grip when the shuttlecock is well behind you. It offers the best leverage for powerful, overhead strokes, maximizing your ability to hit deep, defensive clears or smashes.

Zelus Academy’s online badminton course provides comprehensive tutorials and practical exercises to help you master these grips. With expert guidance and structured drills, you’ll learn to switch grips seamlessly during play, enhancing your shot accuracy and effectiveness.

Enroll in Zelus Academy’s online badminton course to gain personalized feedback and in-depth knowledge on grip techniques. Elevate your badminton skills and gain a competitive edge with our targeted online learning modules. Continue reading 

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Badminton: Get started with the forehand high serve

 In Zelus Academy’s online badminton course, mastering the technique for powerful shots is essential for improving your game. Here’s how to execute this skill effectively:

Start in a side stance with your weight primarily on your back leg. As you prepare to strike, shift your weight from the back leg to the front leg. Drop the shuttlecock to the side and slightly in front of you.

From an elevated position, bring your racquet downwards and swing it forward. Strike hard under the shuttlecock, using your entire body to generate power. Ensure that your follow-through continues the motion, bringing the racquet towards your opposite shoulder for a complete and effective stroke.

Zelus Academy’s online badminton course offers detailed tutorials and practical demonstrations to help you master these powerful shots. Through structured drills and expert guidance, you will refine your stance, weight transfer, and striking technique, ensuring you can deliver strong and accurate shots.

Enroll in Zelus Academy’s online badminton course to elevate your game. With comprehensive training and personalized feedback, you’ll develop the skills necessary to execute powerful shots and dominate on the court. Continue reading

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Badminton: Take control of the game with a front low serve

 In Zelus Academy’s online badminton course, learning the proper technique for powerful shots is crucial. Here’s a step-by-step guide to mastering this skill:

Start in a side stance with your weight primarily on your back leg. As you prepare to strike, shift your weight from the back leg to the front leg. Drop the shuttlecock to the side and slightly in front of you.

From an elevated position, bring your racquet downwards and swing it forward in a controlled motion. Strike the shuttlecock with force, using your entire body to generate power. Ensure that your follow-through continues the motion, bringing the racquet towards your opposite shoulder for a complete and effective stroke.

Zelus Academy’s online badminton course offers detailed tutorials and practical demonstrations to help you master these powerful shots. Through structured drills and expert guidance, you will refine your stance, weight transfer, and striking technique, ensuring you can deliver strong and accurate shots.

Enroll in Zelus Academy’s online badminton course to elevate your game. With comprehensive training and personalized feedback, you’ll develop the skills necessary to execute powerful shots and dominate on the court.Continue reading 

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Badminton: Surprise your opponent with a forehand flick serve

In Zelus Academy’s online badminton course, learning the proper technique for powerful shots is crucial. Here’s a step-by-step guide to mastering this skill:

Start in a side stance with your weight primarily on your back leg. As you prepare to strike, shift your weight from the back leg to the front leg. Drop the shuttlecock to the side and slightly in front of you.

From an elevated position, bring your racquet downwards and swing it forward in a controlled motion. Strike the shuttlecock with force, using your entire body to generate power. Ensure that your follow-through continues the motion, bringing the racquet towards your opposite shoulder for a complete and effective stroke.

Zelus Academy’s online badminton course offers detailed tutorials and practical demonstrations to help you master these powerful shots. Through structured drills and expert guidance, you will refine your stance, weight transfer, and striking technique, ensuring you can deliver strong and accurate shots.

Enroll in Zelus Academy’s online badminton course to elevate your game. With comprehensive training and personalized feedback, you’ll develop the skills necessary to execute powerful shots and dominate on the court. Continue reading 

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Badminton: Push the shuttle across with a backhand low serve

 In Zelus Academy’s online badminton course, mastering the flick serve is essential for gaining an advantage in matches. Here’s a detailed guide to perfecting this technique:

Start with a stance where either your left foot or right foot is forward, positioned close to the ‘T’ in your court. Hold the racquet using a short thumb grip for better control and precision. Place the shuttlecock on the racquet head, ensuring it is balanced and ready for the serve.

Initiate a short backswing to generate the necessary momentum. Push the shuttlecock with a quick, controlled flick of the wrist, releasing it from your hand at the right moment. This flicking action propels the shuttlecock over the net with speed and accuracy. After executing the serve, promptly bring your racquet back to the ready position, preparing yourself for the opponent’s return.

Zelus Academy’s online badminton course provides comprehensive tutorials and practical demonstrations to help you master the flick serve. Structured drills focus on refining your grip, stance, and flicking technique, allowing you to deliver effective and deceptive serves.

Join Zelus Academy’s online badminton course to enhance your serving skills and overall game. With expert guidance, detailed instructions, and personalized training, you’ll develop a competitive edge, mastering the flick serve and other critical techniques to excel on the court. Continue reading

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Badminton: Confuse your opponent with a backhand flick serve

In Zelus Academy’s online badminton course, mastering the flick serve is essential for gaining an advantage in matches. Here’s a detailed guide to perfecting this technique:

Start with a stance where either your left foot or right foot is forward, positioned close to the ‘T’ in your court. Hold the racquet using a short thumb grip for better control and precision. Place the shuttlecock on the racquet head, ensuring it is balanced and ready for the serve.

Initiate a short backswing to generate the necessary momentum. Push the shuttlecock with a quick, controlled flick of the wrist, releasing it from your hand at the right moment. This flicking action propels the shuttlecock over the net with speed and accuracy. After executing the serve, promptly bring your racquet back to the ready position, preparing yourself for the opponent’s return.

Zelus Academy’s online badminton course provides comprehensive tutorials and practical demonstrations to help you master the flick serve. Structured drills focus on refining your grip, stance, and flicking technique, allowing you to deliver effective and deceptive serves.

Join Zelus Academy’s online badminton course to enhance your serving skills and overall game. With expert guidance, detailed instructions, and personalized training, you’ll develop a competitive edge, mastering the flick serve and other critical techniques to excel on the court. Continue reading 

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Badminton: Keep your opponent in the forecourt with a backhand net shot

In Zelus Academy’s online badminton course, perfecting net shots is crucial for improving your overall game. Here’s how to execute this technique:

Begin with a gentle thumb grip on your racquet. Lightly touch the shuttle with the face of the racquet, adjusting your push based on the shuttle’s distance from the net in the front court area. A slight, controlled push ensures the shuttle crosses the net effectively.

After making the shot, promptly bring your racquet back to the ready stance to stay prepared for the next move. It’s vital to aim for the shuttle to cross as close to the net cord as possible before dipping, making it difficult for your opponent to return.

Zelus Academy’s online badminton course offers detailed tutorials and demonstrations to help you master these net shots. Through structured drills, you’ll refine your grip control, touch, and shot placement, enhancing your ability to execute precise net shots consistently.

Enroll in Zelus Academy’s online badminton course to elevate your game. With expert guidance, comprehensive drills, and personalized training, you’ll excel in all aspects of badminton, from delicate net shots to powerful smashes, ensuring a well-rounded skill set on the court. Continue reading

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