In our previous lesson, drummer and multi-instrumentalist Ilan Rubin taught us how to play John Bonham's drumbeat on Led Zeppelin's "The Crunge"—one of Rubin's favorite parts, from one of his favorite drummers and bands. This week, Rubin is back for another lesson that sees him teaching the signature characteristics of another highly acclaimed drummer—Stewart Copeland. And specifically today, Rubin is demonstrating some Copeland-style hi-hat techniques .
"I went through many, many, many Copeland phases throughout my life. He's a huge favorite of mine, I love the Police—one of my top five favorites. And what's synonymous with Stewart Copeland's playing, I think, would be two things: hi-hat stuff and ride stuff," Rubin starts, going on to explain that he'll be splitting his Copeland lesson into two corresponding parts.
"Rather than teaching a specific part, I figured it would be better to kind of give you Stewart Copeland building blocks, if you will. I like to think of Steward Copeland as a very ADD drummer in the sense that he would always change what he played from bar to bar." Although not teaching a specific song, Police and Copeland fans will recognize the themes Rubin is teaching from songs as big as 1978's "Roxanne."
Be sure to check out the full video above to watch Rubin teach Copeland's hi-hat technique, and check back soon to see part two of his lesson on Copeland's ride cymbal technique.
- Drums: Q Drum Co. Galvanized Steel in 13", 16", and 24" shells.
- Cymbals: Zildjian Avedis
- Heads: Remo
- Hardware: DW
- Sticks: Vater