Where are the Drum Parts Located on Sheet Music?

Let’s first look at where each drum or cymbal sits on the staff.

There are various version of this “drum key”, but once you get the concept you can read them all. So please notice that:

• The drums are signified by “proper” notes while the cymbals are signified by little Xs

• The hi-hat and the ride cymbal sit on the same line. Always play the hi-hat unless stated otherwise.

The easiest way to remember / make sense of these positions is to recognize that the height of a note in the 5-line system approximates to where you play the associated drum / cymbal. ​

For instance: You play the bass drum and hi-hat foot with your feet so they are furthest down in the staff. By contrast, the cymbals are situated up above your drums (and much higher than your pedals), so they are placed highest in the staff.

If you are interested in taking singing lessons on Zoom or In Person, please contact us at (818) 902-1233 or on our website at https://www.losangelesmusicteachers.com/online-drum-lessons-in-burbank-ca.html​