A drummer should learn how to play 16th notes on drums, as almost every genre of music that utilizes a snare drum needs this note. The 16th note is two eighth notes played at the four-count measure. It is assumed that the drummer can read music and knows how to play triplets, as triple notes are an important part of playing a 16th note. http://www.drumskillz.com/cont_view.php?cont_id=36

This page also assumes that the drummer has mastered finger control so that they can play the drum for longer periods using the French Grip. http://www.vicfirth.com/education/drumset/domfamularo.php With finger control mastered, the drummer can play with finger movements, which takes most of the stress from the wrist area.

Learn how to count the drum notes to make the steps below much easier. http://www.rockdrummingsystem.com/underground/drum-lessons/learn-how-to-count-time.php Once counting drum notes becomes second nature, try the exercise listed below.

A player who is just learning to play this note can tap it out on their knees via their hands or on a drum pad. Of course, if the drum set is handy you can also practice there.

Count these notes off as 1e&a, 2e&a, 3e&a, and of course 4e&a as you are drumming either on a drum pad, a knee, or the drum set. The odd numbers will be played with your left hand while the even numbers will be played with the right.

If you are using a drum set lower the left drumstick on first count, hitting the drum when you say e&a, then quickly bring your left hand up. Then lower the right hand, which is holding the other stick, and play it as you did the left hand.

Learning how to count on the drums is the first step to becoming a master drummer. Once the counting technique has been perfected, you will be able to move on to learning beats. In rock and roll, the majority of drum beats are counted to 4/4 (4 beats per bar). The counting is performed with the dominant hand (on the hat), while the bass and snare drum added in. Once you can keep the timing of your beats, you can progress to add more feeling and "soul" to your sound.http://www.howtoplaydrums.com/play-drums/

Check out the how tos below to learn how to play other songs on drums:

1. How to Play 16th Notes on Drums
2. How to Hold Drumsticks
3. What are Drum Set Parts
4. How to Play a Basic Rock Beat on Drums
5. How to Play a Snare Drum
6. How to Play Eighth Notes on Drums
7. How to Play Drum Fills
8. How to Play Quarter Notes on Drums
9. How to Set up a Snare Drum
10. How to Use a Drum Pedal
11. How to Tune A Snare Drum