-
Step 1
Understand the concept of a cross meter bass drum over swing beats. Essentially, cross meters are groupings of three or of six beats. Using 4/4 timing for the swing beat, these groupings lay over the beat to bring another dimension.
-
Step 2
Start with the first, most basic variation. There are about 15 different variations for playing cross meters over a swing beat on the bass drum. This is a lot to remember, so start simple. The first cross meter is a simple 123 count with the bass drum on count 1.
-
Step 3
Build onto the basic variation by learning and using the other 14 variations. Another variation to use involves the same 123 count, only playing the bass drum on the second count. Variation 3 is done by playing on the third count.
-
Step 4
Practice each variation before moving on to the next. They build on each other, so it is important to know the basic techniques and sounds of the bass drum before starting.
-
Step 5
Continue learning the variations with the fourth variation by playing the bass drum on the dotted quarters. This is still done on a 123 count with the bass drum played on the first count with a dotted quarter. Variation 5 and 6 would then be count two and three, respectively.
