Accenting 'e' Counts With Open Hi Hats

On this page you will be shown several ideas for accenting 'e' counts with open hi hats. This idea can be applied across many different styles of music and the examples given on this page are more of a practical/mechanical set of exercises to familiarize you with the movements involved. At the bottom of the page you will find a list of links to other lessons on this subject that may help with the learning process.

I have split the page up into three different placement ideas with a variety of patterns given under each topic.


Leaving The Numbered Count Right Hand

First off you will just take some standard groove patterns and open various different 'e' counts leaving the right hand on the numbered count in. This will give you two quick sixteenth notes played over one hand and you will need to make sure this are both played at the same dynamic level. Three examples of this application are given below but use these as inspiration to create your own grooves, an almost infinite number of patterns can be created.

Example 1

A groove with an 'e' count open hi hat


Example 2

A groove with an 'e' count open hi hat


Example 3

A groove with an 'e' count open hi hat


Removing The Hi Hats Surrounding The 'e' Count

Taking out the hi hats on the numbered count preceding and the '+' count after the open hi hat can give the accent a little more emphasis. It also removes the quick run of notes, making the part a little more relaxed. Three example of this are given below, as before use these as a starting point to create your own parts.

Example 1

A groove with an 'e' count open hi hat


Example 2

A groove with an 'e' count open hi hat


Example 3

A groove with an 'e' count open hi hat


'Barking' The Hi Hat

Pressing down the left foot hi hat pedal on the '+' count will immediately shut the open hi hat, creating a really quick burst that is great for accenting. This works best when the right hand isn't playing on the '+' that follows. A further three examples of this idea are shown below, again use these as a starting point to create your own patterns.

Example 1

A groove with an 'e' count open hi hat


Example 2

A groove with an 'e' count open hi hat


Example 3

A groove with an 'e' count open hi hat


TASKS

  • Learn the given examples up to a tempo of at least 130bpm.
  • Create your own grooves using the ideas presented on this page.
  • Combine the ideas given to create further grooves.
  • Apply the groove concept to a phrased pattern as either the groove or fill.

Lessons

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