Permutations of 4 notes - for use in most lessons

Permutations for 1,2 and 3 notes out of 4.

These permutations can be used to gain independence against any ostinato (repeating pattern). For example, play 1 and 3 on the kick, 2 and 4 on the snare and play the permutations on the hi hat (as 16th notes); or, play 16ths on the hi-hat and play the permutations as accents.

When working through the bass drum permutations make sure you focus on the placement of the notes - make sure they fall together when they're supposed to. With bass drum patterns that begin on an 'e' or an 'a' think about the preparation - make sure you lift up in plenty of time.

Single (1 out of 4 notes - all possibilities):
1
e
+
a

Double (2 out of 4 notes - all possibilities):
1,+
e,a
1,e
e,+
+,a
1,a

Triple (3 out of 4 notes - all possibilities):
1,e,+
e,+,a
1,+,a
1,e,a