These are some of my essential picks for my snare drum curriculum, especially if you’re building your technique, developing your reading skills, and working on sound control. These selections have become my go-to books for my students at Texas Tech. I’m sure there are hundreds more to add to the list, but these are a great start!
Survival Guide for the Modern Drummer by Jim Riley completely changed my drum set teaching approach, and it will change your relationship with the drum set for the better, I’m sure! A book completely made of play-alongs, and takes a progressive approach to grooves and creativity. If you want to be creatively challenged, learn to develop your own grooves and fills, and play along with some of the best musicians in Nashville, this is your book. Also if you study with me, it’s a must have. Check out the sale on Amazon for only $19.89!
Buy on Amazon (20% off July 2024!) - https://amzn.to/46VGYlE
Progressive Steps to Syncopation by Ted Reed became a popular method book for developing jazz drummers, but can have so many more creative applications. Though not designed as a drum set book, hundreds of notable drummers have created unique exercises using the “melodies” designed to
Buy on Amazon - https://amzn.to/3SOGlEj
The Jazz Drummer’s Reading Workbook is such a genuine introduction to jazz drum set. The play-along charts are extremely well written and progress in difficulty throughout the book. Use Tom’s reference recordings for inspiration, study the short etudes, and apply his setup concepts as you go. The drumming world needed this, especially for students who may feel jazz drumming is over their head.
Buy on Amazon - https://amzn.to/3SQzRF6
Brazilian Rhythms for the Drum Set - Thanks to my friend Andy Smith, who introduced me to this gem by Henrique C. Almeida. Finally, a play-along method book for students of Samba Jazz! I’ve had students perform these in studio classes, juries, and recitals, especially when it’s difficult to get a band together. Killer charts across many genres, like samba, Bossa nova, partido alto, and more.
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Beyond Bop Drumming by Jim Riley is a tasteful resource with play alongs, advanced exercises, rhythmic challenges, and references to some of the greatest jazz drummers. His narrative approach to the method book is wonderful, and tips along the way are inspiring.
Buy on Amazon (21% off July 2024) - https://amzn.to/4fnOFEN
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