Smooth Transitions Between Grooves and Fills – Drum Practice Routine (Part 23)

Have you ever nailed a groove but stumbled when it was time to add a fill? You’re not alone — learning how to transition smoothly between beats and fills is a key skill that separates beginners from confident, musical drummers.

In Part 23 of our Drum Practice Routine Series, we focus on how to bridge grooves and fills without losing time or flow. With just 30 minutes of focused practice, you’ll gain better control, timing, and confidence.

🎯 Why Work on Transitions?

✅ Builds control and flow between sections
✅ Improves musical phrasing
✅ Helps you stay locked in with other musicians
✅ Prepares you for live and studio playing

🥁 30-Minute Routine: Groove-to-Fill Transitions

1. Groove + 1-Bar Fill Repeats (10 min)

• Play 3 bars of a simple 8th-note groove

• Play 1 bar of a fill (start with single strokes or RLRL)

• Return cleanly to beat 1 of the groove

🎯 Start at 75 bpm, then increase gradually

🔗 Related: Part 13 – Drum Fills You Need to Know
🔗 Related: Part 22 – Applying Rudiments to Fills

2. Practice with a Backing Track (10 min)

• Choose a slow track (80–100 bpm)

• Improvise simple fills on every 4th bar

• Focus on hitting beat 1 cleanly when returning

🎯 Record yourself to check consistency

3. Groove → Fill → Groove Patterns (5 min)

Create a short phrase:

• Groove (2 bars)

• Fill (1 bar)

• Groove (1 bar)

Repeat using different grooves or rudiment-based fills

4. Ghost Notes + Transitions (5 min)

• Add ghost notes during your groove section

• Try ghost notes in the lead-up to your fill

• Use paradiddles or doubles with low dynamics

🎯 Keep timing steady while adding expression

💡 Teaching Tip:

Don't just practice fills. Practice recovering from fills — that's where most players lose time. Smooth transitions are what make you sound professional.

📍 In-Home Drum Lessons Available In:

• Redondo Beach

• Torrance

• Gardena

• Manhattan Beach

• Palos Verdes

Want feedback on your transitions and technique? Book a personalized in-home lesson.

📞 Contact Info:

IN-HOME DRUM LESSONS BY DAVID MONTOYA
📞 310-502-4413
🌐 WWW.DRUMLESSONSINHOME.COM