In the world of drumming, rhythmic diversity and complexity are the keys to creating dynamic and exciting beats. One of the essential building blocks for achieving this is learning how to play triplets. Whether you’re playing in a jazz ensemble, a rock band, or even composing intricate drum solos, understanding and mastering triplets is a crucial skill for any drummer.
In this article, we will explore what drum triplets are, how to play them correctly, and how to incorporate them into your drumming to add versatility and flair to your playing. From defining triplets to providing practical exercises and musical examples, this guide will give you the tools you need to master this vital rhythm.
What is Drum Triplets?
To fully grasp the concept of triplets, it’s essential to understand their definition, how they are notated in sheet music, and the different types of triplets you’ll encounter as a drummer.
A triplet is a group of three notes played in the time of two notes of equal value. For example, if you are playing eighth notes, normally you would play two notes in the time of one quarter note. However, in a triplet, you would play three notes in that same amount of time. This creates a feel of “three even beats” in the space of two.
The fundamental concept of triplets is the division of time into three equal parts instead of the more common two or four. It’s often described as “one trip-let, two trip-let” or “tri-puh-let,” helping to internalize the triplet rhythm.
Notation
In sheet music, triplets are typically notated by placing a “3” above or below a group of three notes. This indicates that the notes should be played as a triplet.
For example:
An eighth note triplet is written as three eighth notes grouped together with a “3” above or below them.
A quarter note triplet is written with three quarter notes grouped together with a “3.”
A sixteenth note triplet is written with three sixteenth notes grouped together with a “3.”
The notation of triplets is a visual reminder for drummers to play the three notes in the time of two, creating the triplet feel.
Types of Triplets
Triplets can be applied to different note values, and each type has its own feel and application in drumming. The most common types of triplets in drumming are eighth note triplets, quarter note triplets, and sixteenth note triplets. Let’s take a closer look at each.
1. Eighth Note Triplets
Eighth note triplets are the most common type of triplets used in drumming. In an eighth note triplet, three notes are played in the time normally occupied by two eighth notes. This means that each note lasts for one-third of a beat.
Count: “1-trip-let, 2-trip-let, 3-trip-let, 4-trip-let.”
Tempo: At a moderate tempo, eighth note triplets are often played as part of fills, beats, or grooves, adding a smooth, rolling feel to the rhythm.
Example: Let’s say you’re playing in 4/4 time, and you want to add eighth note triplets to the snare drum. You would count the beats like this:
1-trip-let, 2-trip-let, 3-trip-let, 4-trip-let.
The triplet feel can be applied to the snare drum while keeping a steady bass drum pattern on the downbeats.
2. Quarter Note Triplets
Quarter note triplets are less common than eighth note triplets, but they are still an essential rhythmic tool for drummers. In this case, three quarter notes are played in the time normally taken by two quarter notes, which means each note lasts for one-third of a beat.
Count: “1-trip-let, 2-trip-let.”
Tempo: Quarter note triplets are often used in slower tempos or in more complex drum patterns, providing a feeling of “tripling” the quarter note beats.
Example: In a 4/4 time signature, a quarter note triplet might be played on the snare, while the bass drum plays steady quarter notes.
1-trip-let (snare), 2-trip-let (snare), 3-trip-let (snare), 4-trip-let (snare).
3. Sixteenth Note Triplets
Sixteenth note triplets are even faster than eighth note triplets and are often used in faster tempos or more intricate drum fills. In sixteenth note triplets, three sixteenth notes are played in the space of one quarter note. This creates a rapid, flowing feel.
Count: “1-trip-let, 2-trip-let, 3-trip-let, 4-trip-let.”
Tempo: These triplets are often used in fast tempos, drum solos, or to add complexity to a drum fill.
Example: In a 4/4 time signature, sixteenth note triplets might be applied as part of a fast drum fill or solo.
1-trip-let, 2-trip-let, 3-trip-let, 4-trip-let.
The result is a rapid, rolling pattern that moves across the kit with fluidity.
Playing Technique
When learning to play drum triplets, several factors come into play, including stick control, counting, and the overall technique you use to play them. Here are some tips to help you execute triplets smoothly and accurately.
Stick Control
Having good stick control is essential when playing triplets. Each note in the triplet grouping needs to be evenly spaced and have the same level of volume and articulation. Inconsistent stick control can lead to uneven triplets that sound rushed or dragging.
To develop even stick control:
Focus on maintaining a steady grip and controlled bounce of the stick.
Practice playing the triplets at a slow tempo, ensuring each note is clear and distinct.
As you increase speed, make sure your stick height and pressure remain consistent.
Counting Triplets
One of the most common challenges when learning to play triplets is accurately counting and feeling the triplet rhythm. A simple but effective way to count triplets is by saying “1-trip-let, 2-trip-let, 3-trip-let, 4-trip-let.” This verbal counting method helps internalize the triplet feel and ensures that each note is played in the correct time.
Alternatively, you can use “tri-puh-let” to emphasize the triplet division more clearly.
When starting out, practice counting triplets slowly with a metronome. Once you’re comfortable with the rhythm, gradually increase the tempo while maintaining accuracy and consistency.
Practice Tips
Here are a few practice tips to help you develop your triplet skills:
Start Slow: Always begin practicing triplets at a slower tempo to ensure accuracy and control. Use a metronome set to a comfortable tempo and focus on playing each note evenly.
Use a Metronome: A metronome can help you keep track of your timing and ensure that the triplet feel is consistent. Set the metronome to a slower speed, and gradually increase it as you become more comfortable.
Gradual Tempo Increase: Once you feel confident at a slower speed, gradually increase the tempo. Be sure not to sacrifice precision for speed—accuracy is the key to mastering triplets.
Incorporating Triplets in Drumming
Once you’ve learned to play triplets, it’s time to start incorporating them into your drumming. Here are some ways to use triplets effectively in various drumming contexts.
Basic Exercises
Start by practicing basic triplet exercises on the snare drum. Focus on maintaining an even sound and clean articulation of each note. Here’s a simple exercise to get you started:
Right hand: Eighth note triplets
Left hand: Play quarter notes on the snare
Bass drum: Play quarter notes on the downbeats
Example:
1-trip-let, 2-trip-let, 3-trip-let, 4-trip-let.
Kit Application
You can apply triplets to the entire drum kit, adding a layer of complexity to your drumming. For example, incorporate triplets into your bass drum patterns or as part of your drum fills. Here’s an example of how you could play a basic fill using triplets:
Bass drum (1-trip-let), snare drum (2-trip-let), toms (3-trip-let, 4-trip-let).
Musical Examples
Many drummers use triplets to add texture and dynamics to their drumming. Some well-known songs and drumming patterns that feature triplets include:
“Good Times Bad Times” by Led Zeppelin – John Bonham uses triplets in his iconic drum fill.
“The Ocean” by Led Zeppelin – Another example of Bonham’s use of triplet-based patterns in his fills.
“Tom Sawyer” by Rush – Neil Peart incorporates triplet patterns in various parts of the song.
Conclusion
Mastering drum triplets is a crucial skill for any drummer looking to expand their rhythmic vocabulary and increase the complexity of their playing. By understanding the types of triplets, practicing with good technique, and incorporating triplets into your drumming, you’ll be able to add a unique groove to your beats and fills. As with any new skill, practice is key. Start slow, count carefully, and focus on even stick control. With time and dedication, you’ll find that triplets become second nature, allowing you to enhance your drumming with rhythmic diversity and flair.
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