How to Read Drum Set Sheet Music

For some people a drummer is the epitome of rock and roll. The drummer gets all the attention and accolades of the background music. Drummers have to go through rigorous training and schooling to be able to play the instrument well. Learning how to read drum set sheet music can be no problem.

• Really take a good look at the sheet music. There are several lines to see and understand. There are five lines that make a bar on the sheet music. This bar is filled with the notes to be played by the drummer.


• Get a feel for the rhythm by making a note of the time measurement. A music time measurement can be 2:4, 3:4 or 4:4 times. This creates the tempo for the music being played.


• Look for and find the marks of the hi-hat indicators. This indicator is played along with a drum stick or with the hi-hat pedal alone. Notice the star or asterisk that indicated the cymbals. Even though it is a star or asterisk it is known as an "X" mark.


• Find the snare drum indicator on the sheet music. The snare drum is one of the most important parts of the drum set and is indicated by a single note in the middle of the bar. Get to know the bass drum on the sheet music as well. The bass drum is also a greatly important piece to the music.


• Other marks on the sheet music include the tom-tom indicators. There is a hi-tom, mid-tom and low-tom notations that can be difficult to spot on the top, middle or bottom of the bar.