Tempo The speed at which a piece of music is played. Syncopation The accentuation of offbeat rhythms or the placement of accents on weak beats or subdivisions. Independence A drummer’s ability to play different rhythms and patterns with each limb simultaneously. Hi-Hat A pair of cymbals mounted on a stand, played with a foot pedal. Groove The rhythmic feel or swing in music, especially in the context of a drum pattern. Ghost Note A note played very softly, almost inaudible. Back beat Drum Actual USA The Joy of REAL Drumming!