UMass-ish Drumline Cadence (2009)

Tempo

Steady 116 bpm keeps things moving while reinforcing tempo control. No extreme pacing, but endurance is required.

Rudiments

Core UMass exercises introduce hybrid rolls, layered check patterns, and rudiment combinations that train both hands evenly.

Stickings

Plenty of alternated stickings, flams, and accent placement, especially in Monkey Beats and Check Patterns. Teaches control under repetition.

Rhythm / Syncopation

Mostly straight grooves with light syncopation and phrase displacement. A few tag sections add musicality without becoming complex.

Snare Complexity

Written for clarity and groove, with exposed sections that teach backbeat feel, accents, and rebound-based phrasing.

Tenor Complexity

Melodic motion across drums, especially in groove-based exercises. Moderate technical demand with accessible tuning and stickings.

Bass Complexity

Split parts and staggered unisons demand listening and team timing. Some rudimental content placed within groove context.

Cymbal Complexity

Notated hits and visual options, but no extreme syncopation. Great part for developing timing and crowd cues.

Ensemble Coordination

Exercises layer well across battery voices. Requires attention during transitions, call-and-response, and dynamic shifts.

Endurance

Longer structure with minimal rests. Repetition and consistent groove make it a stamina-builder by design.