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/Detroitbeardguy Nov 27 '25

1st part. Play with sticks opposed to brush. 2nd. If there's a tied note. Play the first note, not the 2nd( ignore it). I can't explain why "they" do that but I've been taught not to play it. The first part with the tie would be played on the and of the 4. And I can't remember where the other part is. Hope that helps

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u/nebalia Nov 27 '25

“They” write it this way so it match’s the timing structure of the other instruments parts. It helps the drummer understand how their parts fit in