Simple Guide to Counting Rhythm
As drummers, rhythm is our business. Therefore, it is crucial for us to have a clear understanding of rhythm. The easiest way to gain an understanding of rhythm is to devise a way to count each type of note. Below, I will list the most common note types and a practical way of counting each, when working in 4/4 (or any other time signature with a 4 on the bottom).
Counting Duple Rhythms in 4/4
(Notes in parenthesis are counted, but not played)
Whole Note; each of which is worth 4 beats
Count:
1
(2) (3)
(4)
Half Notes; each of which is worth 2 beats
Count:
1
(2) 3
(4)
Quarter Notes; each of which is worth 1 beat
Count:
1
2 3
4
8th Notes; each of which is worth 1/2 of a beat
Count:
1&
2&
3&
4&
16th Notes; each of which is worth 1/4 of a beat
Count:
1e&a
2e&a
3e&a
4e&a
32nd Notes; each of which is worth 1/8 of a beat
Count:
1e&a
&e&a
2e&a &e&a
3e&a &e&a
4e&a &e&a
Sam "The Drum Man" Ulano recommends counting 32nd notes
"1adida
&adida"
Counting Triplet Oriented Rhythms in 4/4
The easiest way to demonstrate how to count the various triplet subdivisions is to begin with 8th note triplets, as the suggested counts for half note triplets and quarter note triplets are based upon the count of 8th note triplets. The 8th note triplets appear again, in their respective place in the descending order of rhythmic value.
8th Note Triplets; each of which is worth 1/3 of a beat
1triplet
2triplet
3triplet
4triplet
Half Note Triplets; each of which is worth 1 1/3 beats
Count:
1(trip)(let)
(2)trip(let)
(3)(trip)let
(4)(trip)(let)
Quarter Note Triplets; each of which is worth 2/3 of a beat
Count:
1(trip)let
(2)trip(let)
3(trip)let
(4)trip(let)
8th Note Triplets; each of which is worth 1/3 of a beat
Count:
1triplet
2triplet
3triplet
4triplet
16th Note Triplets; each of which is worth 1/6 of a beat
(T= "Trip"; L= "Let")
Count:
1TL
&TL
2TL
&TL
3TL
&TL
4TL
&TL
Practice counting each rhythm in the examples above, out loud, until you can do so consistently, with ease. Then, try to play alternating single strokes, on the snare drum or practice pad, while continuing to count out loud. It is important to develop a strong ability to count—especially when reading—because counting speeds up the learning process and aids in the development of a good, steady sense of time, and rhythmic awareness. Good luck!