How to Play a 5/4 Beat on Drums

After perfecting the beginner beats when learning to play the drums, it is fun to practice using some more abstract sounds. A 5/4 beat has a funky sound to it that can be very interesting when mixed together with some more common beats. Use the tips below when trying this unusual beat.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Break down the measure into five smaller sub-measures. Do this by counting one and two and three and four and five and, all within the measure to help you keep count.

2. Recognize the regular measures in what the other instruments are playing. Find the four counts to help you keep your count and gauge your beat.

3. Count the five counts silently to yourself to the tempo of the song. This helps you to play your five beats within the allotted four-count time.

4. Hit the high-hat on the left on the one count. Hit the kick drum on the one count and the four count. Hit the snare drum on the first and third counts. Hit the cymbal played with the right hand on the "and" counts.

5. Mix this beat with other beats for some added interest while playing. This is a technique used often for drumming soloists. Switch back and forth from 4/4 and 6/8 beats to 5/4, and you will soon sound like John Bonham of Led Zeppelin or Ringo Starr of the Beatles.

6. Practice this beat often. The measures do not break naturally into the five count beat, so this takes some getting used to.