Dynamic Independence

Many drummers overlook the development of dynamics in their playing. Like the melodic instruments, the drum set has a wide dynamic range. However, the drum set outstrips oboe, mandolin, harp, guitar, flute, piano, and the rest in its dynamic potential, a potential that many drummers fail to explore.

The drummer has the unique opportunity of playing at four different dynamic levels at the same time, each corresponding to one of his four limbs. Getting to the point where each limb possesses dynamic sensitivity and control is a daunting task, and this kind of “independence” is foreign to the way drummers typically think of and are taught the concept. 

Usually, if a drummer is described as having a great deal of “independence,” reference is being made to his ability to play various rhythms simultaneously. Dynamic independence is often overlooked and overshadowed by rhythmic independence. But music is just as much about rhythm as it is about dynamics (and much else besides), and to the extent that he cares about mastering the drum set, the drummer should cultivate his dynamic capabilities.

I have one very basic (but certainly not simple) exercise that I hope will inspire you to begin delving into this expansive world of dynamic independence. The exercise involves playing quarter notes with all four limbs at the same time. The right foot plays the bass drum pedal, the left foot plays the hi-hat, the right hand plays the bell of the ride cymbal, and the left hand plays the snare drum. Begin by playing one measure in which all four limbs are playing the same dynamic level, say forte. Follow this measure with a measure in which you bring down the volume of your right hand to piano (not gradually, but as abruptly as you can) whilst maintaining forte with your other three limbs. Follow this measure with a measure in which you now bring your left hand down to piano whilst your other three limbs play at forte. This step requires bringing the volume of your right hand back up to forte. Continue this exercise with the right foot and the left foot. As you play this exercise you’ll feel an immediate tension the moment you drop the dynamic level of one of your limbs. It will take everything within you not to adjust one or multiple of your other limbs in response.

Resist and persist.

More than anything else, this exercise is meant to reveal just how far exploration into dynamic independence can go. Additionally, practicing dynamic independence in this way will make your practice sessions less clinical and tedious and more musical. So often drummers practice patterns, licks, and grooves without a care for how they are playing them. Coming up with dynamic independence exercises of your own, in the same vein as the one I’ve laid out, will force you to learn with sensitivity and enable you to hone your licks and grooves, the stuff us drummers typically practice, with a similar mind as to their dynamic potential.