What is the meaning behind a drummer calling his style of playing as ‘orchestrational’ (as opposed to ‘strict time’)?

Introduction

Drumming is a versatile and expressive art form that plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of music. While some drummers may prioritize strict timekeeping, others adopt a more orchestrational approach to their playing. In this article, we will explore the meaning behind a drummer calling their style “orchestrational” and delve into the key characteristics and principles that define this approach.

Definition of “Orchestrational”

When a drummer describes their style as “orchestrational,” it signifies their intention to create a broader musical landscape through their drumming. Rather than solely focusing on keeping time, orchestrational drummers incorporate various techniques, dynamics, and textures to emulate the richness and complexity of an orchestra. Their goal is to enhance the overall musical experience and contribute to the arrangement of a song.

Emphasis on Musicality

Drummers who adopt an orchestrational style prioritize musicality over strict timekeeping. They view the drums as a melodic and expressive instrument, using different rhythmic patterns, accents, and fills to enhance the overall musicality of a piece. By infusing their playing with musical nuances, they contribute to the emotional depth and impact of the music.

Expanding beyond Traditional Drumming Roles

Drummers with an orchestrational approach often go beyond the traditional roles associated with drumming. They explore different sounds, techniques, and instruments to add layers and textures to their playing. This may involve incorporating auxiliary percussion, electronics, or other non-traditional elements into their setup. By expanding their sonic palette, orchestrational drummers create a more diverse and captivating musical experience.

Creating a Cohesive Musical Ensemble

One of the primary aims of orchestrational drumming is to create a cohesive musical ensemble. Orchestrational drummers focus on listening and responding to the music, adapting their playing to complement the overall sound and contribute to the musical conversation. They strive to blend seamlessly with other musicians in a band or ensemble, ensuring that their drumming serves the music as a whole.

In conclusion, the orchestrational style of drumming encompasses a range of techniques and principles that prioritize musicality, creativity, and adaptability. Drummers who adopt this approach aim to create a broader musical landscape by incorporating various techniques, dynamics, and instruments into their playing. By doing so, they contribute to the arrangement, texture, and overall impact of the music.

Sources:

• “Drum Glossary and Terms” – Drumming.com (https://drumming.com/drum-glossary.htm)
• “What is the definition of ‘playing in the pocket’?” – Music: Practice & Theory Stack Exchange (https://music.stackexchange.com/questions/27301/what-is-the-definition-of-playing-in-the-pocket)
• “Taiko” – Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taiko)

FAQs

What does it mean when a drummer describes their style as “orchestrational”?

When a drummer refers to their style as “orchestrational,” it means that they prioritize creating a broader musical landscape by incorporating various techniques, dynamics, and textures into their playing. They aim to emulate the role of an orchestra by adding depth and complexity to their drumming.

How does an orchestrational drummer differ from a drummer focused on strict timekeeping?

An orchestrational drummer differs from a drummer focused on strict timekeeping by placing a greater emphasis on musicality. While strict timekeeping drummers prioritize maintaining a steady beat, orchestrational drummers use different rhythmic patterns, accents, and fills to enhance the overall musical experience and contribute to the arrangement of a song.

Does an orchestrational drummer explore beyond traditional drumming roles?

Yes, drummers with an orchestrational approach often go beyond traditional drumming roles. They may incorporate auxiliary percussion, electronics, and other non-traditional elements into their playing to add layers and textures. This exploration allows them to create a more diverse and captivating musical experience.

How does an orchestrational drummer contribute to a cohesive musical ensemble?

An orchestrational drummer aims to blend seamlessly with other musicians in a band or ensemble. They focus on listening and responding to the music, adapting their playing to complement the overall sound and contribute to the musical conversation. By doing so, they help create a cohesive and unified musical ensemble.

What are some key principles of orchestrational drumming?

Key principles of orchestrational drumming include prioritizing musicality, exploring different sounds and instruments, and adapting playing to serve the music as a whole. Orchestrational drummers often incorporate dynamics, textures, and nuanced techniques to enhance the emotional depth and impact of the music.

Can an orchestrational drummer still maintain a solid sense of time?

Yes, while an orchestrational drummer may prioritize musicality and explore various techniques, they can still maintain a solid sense of time. Timekeeping remains an essential foundation in drumming, even within the orchestrational style. The difference lies in the additional layers of creativity and musical expression that orchestrational drummers bring to their playing.

Are there specific genres of music where orchestrational drumming is more commonly found?

Orchestrational drumming can be found in various genres of music. While it may be more prevalent in styles that allow for greater experimentation and musical exploration, such as jazz, fusion, progressive rock, and world music, drummers with an orchestrational approach can adapt their style to fit different genres and musical contexts.

How can drummers develop their skills in orchestrational drumming?

To develop their skills in orchestrational drumming, drummers can focus on expanding their musical vocabulary, studying different rhythmic patterns and styles, and experimenting with diverse sounds and instruments. They can also listen to and learn from drummers who excel in the orchestrational style, attend workshops or masterclasses, and engage in collaborative musical experiences to further refine their abilities.