To kick, set-up, punch, hit, fill or "catch" a written figure means to accent, support and/or "frame" that figure in a musical and stylistically appropriate manner. Being successful at this requires going well beyond the notation. It requires creativity, improvisation, musical taste and INTENTION (what is your set-up supposed to accomplish?). Figure interpretation can be loosely divided into 2 categories:
Hits and Punches usually occur during light ensemble, soli or background sections and may be played as part of the on going beat pattern.
Kicks, Fills and Set-ups occur during tutti or shout sections. You may be required to "catch" figures from both categories simultaneously. It is up to you to determine what type of kick, hit, punch, fill or set-up is required. Keep in mind your job is to enhance, support and prepare ensemble entrances. The way in which the drummer sets up a shout section or catches the figures of a given chart often determines the feel, style, phrasing and dynamics for the entire ensemble, whether it's a trio or big band. Good set-ups will make the ensemble entrances powerful, clear and precise. A bad set-up may cause a "train wreck". All kicks, fills, set-ups, punches and hits should be in the style of the music you are playing (no Virgil Donati fills for a Count Basie chart) and executed with solid time and a good feel.
There are three basic ways to learn figure interpretation.
First, find recordings of music for which you have the drum part, listen to them and transcribe what you hear, even if it isn't 100% accurate.
Second, aurally identify common figures and their accompanying kicks, set-ups, etc. on recordings or from live performances (without the drum part) and memorize them, make them part of your musical vocabulary.
Third, isolate a particular rhythmic motive or phrase (perhaps from a reading exercise) and practice catching or setting-up that motive/phrase within a variety of tempi, styles and musical situations. Your ears are a major factor in developing your musical ability. Transcribing and stealing "licks" is not bad, it is a crucial step in your musical development. Some of my favorite Big Band drummers are Mel Lewis, Buddy Rich, Jeff Hamilton and Dennis Mackrel.
Print Sherrie's Tips for Jazz Drumming
To book Dr. Maricle as a guest soloist, clinician, in-school residencies, for collegiate/high school jazz festival adjudication, or to commission an original composition or arrangement for jazz ensemble, percussion ensemble, concert band, wind ensemble or orchestra please contact Jami Dauber.