How to Be a Latin Drummer

Latin drumming is one of the oldest forms of percussion known to man. If you are a rock or jazz drummer, the rhythms and tempos of Latin drumming may sound confusing and complicated to you. However, you can master this form of drumming with an open mind and a focus on changing your approach to drumming.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Seek out the different equipment associated with Latin drumming. Traditional rock and jazz drumming focus on high hat cymbals, snare and bass drums. However, Latin drumming uses congas, cowbells, toms, woodblocks and a variety of instruments. You will find this expands your sound in ways you never knew just after using them for a short period.

2. Learn to play a polyrhythm. The polyrhythm utilizes several tempos and beats at once. This creates a never-ending wave of rhythm.
   
   

3. Listen to different styles of Latin music to understand how the drums and rhythms go together. There are a wide variety of styles and dozens of beats to accommodate each. Explore the sounds of Rumba, Salsa, Cuban, Brazilian and Samba styles of drumming and music. There is a wide variety available online and in stores, usually filed under world music, or salsa music.
   
   

4. Practice these styles on your own. Find out which ones compliment your own abilities and tendencies. It's okay to start slow and build up to the frantic pace often associated with this style of percussion.

5. Incorporate your new style of drumming into your regular group. Having this new variety of tempos and rhythms can prove to be a fun and creatively challenging experience for the entire band. Or, if you feel up to it, join a Latin band and see how the instruments work together.