Music Lesson: Drumming in "Borderlands"

In the country piece "Borderlands," we play a supporting role, which is common for drummers, particularly in relation to the guitar. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Supporting Role

• Country music often features subtle drumming.
• Our role is to support the vocalists and guitarists.
• Focus on the space and dynamics of the music rather than bashing the drums.

Understanding Rests

• Observe rests in the first line:
  • Quarter note rest
  • Half note rest
• Count through those rests to avoid rushing into the next bar.

Hi-Hat Introduction

• At the end of the first line, there is an introduction of the hi-hat on beat four.
• I recommend playing the hi-hat with your right hand (if you’re a right-handed drummer), as it sets you up for the next line.

Demonstration of Transition

• Let me demonstrate:

  • Fourth bar of the first line leading into the first bar of the second line.

• By using your left hand for the snare drum at the end of the first line, you’ll be prepared for the snares in the groove, with your right hand ready on the hi-hats.

Watch for Hi-Hat Fills

• At the end of the second line:

  • Pay attention to the hi-hat fill in the second half of that last bar.
  • On beats one and two, play the snares right, left.

• Caution with Hi-Hats:

  • Don’t let the hi-hats take you by surprise; they sync with the guitar line, creating a cohesive band feel.

Playing Example

• The fourth bar of the second line should be played like this:

  • Right, left, right, left, right (if you're a right-handed player).

• This sets us up for the groove that kicks in during line three.

Steady Groove in Line Three

• The third line features a steady groove without rests.
• There’s a little snare fill at the end of the third line.
• Play the snares right, left to lead into the hi-hat at the beginning of the fourth line.

Demonstration of the Fill

• Here’s how to execute the fill:

  • Fourth bar of the third line leading into the first bar of the fourth line.

• Using the right, left technique for the snares at the end of the third line prevents a rush into the next bar.

Final Snare Fill

• In the last line:
  • The snare fill in the third bar includes snares on four.
  • You don’t have to play them right, left since we're not leading into anything on the hi-hat in the last bar—just bass drums.

Conclusion

• Practice the transition to ensure smooth performance.
• End with two solid bass drums on:
  • Beat one and beat two.

Feel free to ask questions as we explore this piece further!