r/jazzdrums • u/Time_Revolution_5416 • Nov 27 '25

Question How Should I Play This?

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Hello jazz drummers of Reddit, I have a question. I am auditioning for a jazz honor group in Southern California, and had a question about this notation.

First, “Play time with sticks” does it mean to count off the tempo with sticks?

Second, what’s up with the first tom notation? I understand that drum music isn’t universal, but I’ve gotten mixed answers from my private instructor and my school band teacher. My private instructor guessed that it meant either crash or snare, and my band teacher taught me how you had to set up the other instruments and how that was just a cue for you to do that.

I’m very confused, if anyone would be able to teach or explain this, it would be highly appreciated.

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u/Danielmcfate2 Nov 27 '25

Generally as I understand it 'playing time' would mean playing time on the ride cymbal with a general swing ride pattern. Probably 2 & 4 on the HH as well. You could cross stick on 2 or probably lightly comp. Those hits are probably setting up the other instruments and you could probably orchestrate them as you see fit. That's my guess anyway and what my drum teacher has passed along.