Interpretation and Performance Practice for Drum Set in Big Band Swing Music

Abstract

This article is aimed at offering necessary guideline on how to play a drum set in big band swing music, in terms of interpretation of musical symbols and techniques for drummers to perform big band swing music. The drummers need to thoroughly understand the intricate details of this particular type of music in order to grasp the intention of a composer or an arranger. Unlike an orchestra or a military band, there is no detailed explanation of how the musical symbols or techniques should be performed. Therefore, it is important for drummers wishing to produce a beautiful piece of music to apprehend the meaning of a song expressed through musical symbols.