Drummer

A drummer is a person who plays drums, particularly a drum kit ("drum set" or "trap set", which will also include cymbals), marching percussion or hand drums. The term percussionist applies to a musician performing on any percussion instrument, but usually refers to one who plays classical or Latin percussion. Most bands for Rock, Pop, Jazz, R&B etc. include a drummer in their lineup, who conveys the rhythm of the music by using the drums of the drum kit to play the beat of the song, which is repeated in every bar, with added drum fills, particularly just before changes in the song.

Some such drummers are session musicians and are not fixed to a particular band, working with various musical acts. Though percussion notation is some times used, many drummers create and memorise the drum beats themselves without songwriting credit. Drum beats vary in speed, volume and complexity depending on the genre of music, but are normally designed to lay down the rhythm and drive the music along. Drummers usually work with a bassist to make up a rhythm section.