How to Write a Better Snare Rhythm • Music Theory from Matt Sassari & Tony Romera "Snare Thing"

 

How to Write a
Better Snare Rhythm.

 

 

 

Free PDF Tutorial
includes MIDI + WAV file examples

 

 

If the link above does not work, paste this into your browser:
https://hackmusictheory.com/album/2806684/snare-rhythms

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Intro.

 

While it’s normal to hear at least a few different kick patterns and hi-hat patterns in music nowadays, it’s rare to hear an interesting snare pattern. The rhythm assigned to this neglected element of the drumkit is almost always an afterthought. In 4|4 (which most music is in), the snare is usually one of these three rhythms:

 

1. Regular backbeat (beats 2 and 4): used in most songs
2. Half-time backbeat (beat 3): used for a slower vibe
3. Double-time backbeat (beats 1+, 2+, 3+, 4+): used for a faster vibe

 

So, when listening through to the new releases on Spotify, it was rather shocking (pleasantly so) to hear something completely unusual. The collaborative single “Snare Thing” by French producers Matt Sassari & Tony Romera is a refreshing celebration of the drum that almost always plays the most boring rhythm!

 

With these PDF tutorials, we usually have to make an educated guess as to what the creator’s intention and process was behind the song. But, based on the less-than-subtle title of their track, it’s safe to say that the duo were intentionally showcasing the snare drum’s creative potential. So, inspired by “Snare Thing”, here’s our 4-step method for writing creative snare patterns. But first… Tea!

 

 

 

 

Step 1. Motif

 

Set up two bars of 4|4 with your grid on 1/16 notes, and your tempo at 126 BPM. The first thing we need to do is write a motif, which is a short idea that’s repeated to give the music structure and make it more memorable.

 

As we’re writing for the drums, our motif will obviously be a rhythmic motif (when using pitched instruments, you can also write melodic and harmonic motifs). The motif that Matt and Tony use is a couple of 1/16 notes followed by a 1/16 rest. They then repeat this motif to create their snare rhythm.

 

Motif repeated to create snare rhythm

 

 

 

As you can see, their moti