Start with a steady count
Think of one-two-three-four as four evenly spaced beats. Give each count the same amount of room, and keep counting quietly while you listen. Try the rhythm by tapping your hand on your knee before adding any sounds.
This example uses four counts in a bar. The beat is the regular pulse; the pattern of sounds played around it is the rhythm.
Add kick and snare
Here K means kick and S means snare. Play a kick on counts 1 and 3, then a snare on counts 2 and 4. Repeat the pattern and keep the spoken count steady.
Add hi-hat on every count
When the kick and snare feel comfortable, tap the closed hi-hat on all four counts: 1, 2, 3, and 4. You now have a low kick on 1 and 3, snare on 2 and 4, and a regular hi-hat pulse.
For a comfortable practice tempo, try a slower setting first and increase it only when you can repeat the pattern without losing the count. Continue with Feel the pulse, Your first groove, and Add the hi-hat.
Written for beginner musicians by Playroom, the team behind these browser instruments and practice activities. Our examples reflect the notes and sounds available in this browser practice room.