Help Using Drumset Notation

• Jul 26, 2024 - 18:08

I am struggling to use the drum set notation to write out relatively simple exercises with ride cymbal, snare, and bass drum. Despite consulting the handbook and searching online resources, despite trying to use the instructions given in various places for managing chords (which as I understand it, are essentially what the drum set notation creates with the various staff lines for drum set elements, I find that all my attempts to add snare drum comping hits using Shift below a steady ride cymbal pattern, inevitably impact and change the steady ride cymbal rhythm on an upper staff line. Even with a simple quarter note rhythm in the ride cymbal, trying to add a half-note rest on the first quarter note on the snare drum staff line, selecting the first quarter note and using Shift plus A and also clicking the rest sign, removes or changes the ride cymbal quarter note in one way or another.
Is there anyone out there who would be willing to help me out, ideally with a zoom call? I think I brief live discussion of how to do what I am trying to do would be enormously helpful. I am even willing to pay for this "lesson" if the cost is reasonable! I know this can't be as difficult as it has become for me, and I would be very grateful for help in getting this sorted out.

Comments

• Jul 27, 2024 - 16:42

Personally, I think that the drum palette is the worst mess I've ever come across. Sorry to say. It forces the user to use keyboard shortcuts. This is a big problem for a mouser like me. So much so that I don't write for drum set any more unless I have to. There are those that will say that short cut input is faster and that I should just learn how to do it. I don't want to.
They say that part of the reason for the palette is to facilitate "hands and feet" notation. Not all drum music is set up that way. Drummers know what drum to play based on location and notehead.
You noticed that the sounds are spread out in the voices. This is simplified a little bit if you choose a four piece drum set when you set up the score. I would practice with that. I have also gone through the "Edit Drum Set" process. I removed all the extra instruments that I would never use. And put as many sounds in voice one as I could. That way, for much of input, I can use my mouse to just put notes for various drums where I want.
Wish I had more help. Good luck.

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