Drum Charts- A How To Guide for Drummers

DRUM CHARTS

A How To Guide For Drummers

 by Dendy Jarrett and Ryan Fowler

In previous drum articles, I've mentioned charting for drummers. Conventional charting involves a thorough tablature representation of the song, while the simpler Nashville Numbers method is geared toward all musicians and tracks a song by grouping bars into intro, verse, chorus, and turn around. It also notes the key changes above each section.

The method that I use, as does a majority of drummers in Nashville, is what we call  the Nashville Standard (although you don't have to be from Nashville to use it). It sort of melds the two methods to create a quick reference "road map" of the song.

Nashville drummer Ryan Fowler put together this video and granted us permission to use it. He does a fantastic job of laying out the procedure that really works for most of us who play professionally and need a quick way to produce a drum chart— as well as be prepared for the gig.

RESOURCES

Ryan Fowler is part of the Nashville circle of drummers. He grew up in St. Louis and originally studied jazz and swing  drumming. He co-founded the group The Highlight Reel and later moved to Nashville.

He currently bounces among touring, studio work, playing showcases downtown, teaching privately, songwriting, and producing ... yes, another passionate drummer pursuing his dreams.

You can learn more about Ryan Fowler by going to his website:

RYAN FOWLER DRUMS 

To discuss Drums and Percussion visit the Harmony Central Drum Forum 

Dendy Jarrett is the Publisher and Director of Harmony Central. He has been heavily involved at the executive level in many aspects of the drum and percussion industry for over 25 years and has been a professional player since he was 16. His articles and product reviews have been featured in InTune Monthly, Gig Magazine, DRUM! and Modern Drummer Magazines.