Big Band Reading
Learning how to read a Big Band Jazz chart effectively is an important part of becoming a well rounded Jazz drummer. While it is important that you learn the ins and outs of “kicking” a big band from an experienced teacher, you will still need to rack up many hours of hands on experience. Finding opportunities to get that experience can be a challenge nowadays outside of learning institutions. The next best thing is to get ahold of some drum charts and read along with corresponding recordings. One of my favorite options for doing this is the Gordon Goodwin Big Phat Play Along series which you can check out HERE.
With so few options to read along with classic big band charts, I was thrilled when a great drummer friend of mine, Dean Koba, shared with me some charts and big band play along links that he provides for his students. Hopefully these materials aid you in your big band reading practice as well!
Big Band Reading Page