Reading Drum Tabs

Use this legend to help you with reading drum tabs. You should be aware however, that there is really no universally accepted method of writing out tabs as there is for written drum music.

So while reading you may come across some symbols or letters in some pieces that you don’t in others. But most of what you will come across while reading them is written down in the legends available to you below. For a more in depth approach to reading tabs, see my lesson on how to read drum tabs.

This legend will teach you all the different possible ways that instruments can appear on the tabs. Note that some may come in multiple forms. Also, if you see something that isn’t covered here and need help, you can always contact me or hit up the drum forum

This legend will show you different symbols that are used to represent the methods of hitting the drums. You’ll find strikes, chokes, flams and more. Again, feel free to print these off or copy the pictures for your own use. Enjoy!

Learn More About…

• Marching Snare Drums



• Bass Drum Pedals



• Virtual Drums

Want To Find More Sheet Music? Check These Pages Out:

Click here for more lessons on rudiments, techniques, and reading drum tabs