In-Depth Rhythm Studies: Advanced Metronome Functions

Welcome to a new way of understanding rhythm within time. Through diligent practice of the
exercises in this book, you will learn several ways of approaching time keeping beyond the traditional methods, and you will increase the capacity of your brain to process data from multiple sources at the same time. Gaining this freedom will give new meaning to the “muscle memory” process and its relationship with mental activity.
The methods in this book are nontraditional tools for developing “time awareness.” Following them will take you in a stepwise fashion to develop a solid inner clock and give you the skill to recognize, acknowledge, and focus on rhythmic phrasings outside of your own. This will liberate you from fixating only on what you are playing and will teach you to be aware of what is going on around you in the complex, layered mix of melody, harmony, and rhythm we call music.
The vast majority of popular (and not-so-popular) Western (and non-Western) music functions atop a grid of time; a rhythmic key to which everything that is played relates mathematically. Even atypical
rhythms that seem to clash with the main pulse must eventually resolve to the grid if they are to
achieve their conventional purpose of “tension and release.” This invisible, binding force—the feel
of music—is therefore THE MASTER CODE.
Beyond solidifying our connection to The Master Code, these Rhythm Studies will also help increase
your aptitude for and comfort with sight reading. Further, because you will incorporate your voice in
these methods, you will develop 5-way independence with 4-limbed coordination. But perhaps the
main benefit of mastering this method is the cultivation of your individual creativity. Once such a
high level of coordination is reached, you no longer need to devote as much of your mental capacity
to it, thus allowing more of your concentration to be focused on personal expression. These studies
will equip you with new potential in your continued musical development. I strongly believe that
following my method will foster a better understanding of your instrument, its possibilities, and your
role as drummer in the larger musical picture.
While your musical individualism is important, it is equally important to be able to learn parts quickly
and accommodate other musicians and producers. The better you are able to do this, the more
likely you are to succeed as a drummer in the modern music industry. By mastering the concepts of
this book, you can find yourself in league with the most renowned of session and solo musicians.

Libor Hadrava



“Using Libor’s book will give you more years to live life outside of the practice room.”
—Mike Mangini

“In-Depth Rhythm Studies offers a refreshing end unique look into the sometimes subtle, sometimes complex world of ‘rhythm’ and ‘time’ and the undeniable relationship between them. Through clearly explained challenging exercises Libor’s book can, without a doubt, elevate every drummer’s command of these vital areas of drumming to new levels.”
—Rod Morgenstein

“Developing our ability to hear and process the music in which we take part are two of the most important skills a musician can develop. All great musicians have attained these skills, and Libor’s book will help YOU attain them, too.”
—Dave DiCenso

“A metronome con be a friend or foe… Libor Hadrava reveals in a magical, creative way it is our friend, and In-Depth Rhythm Studies reveals the secrets.”
—Jon Hazilla

“Very clear, concise, and challenging.”
—Skip Hadden

"Hadrava helps the reader develop 'time awareness' through exercises involving complicated things like 'repositioning' the metronome and vocalizing rhythmic patterns while already executing four-way independence on the kit...Be sure to lock yourself away for a while."
—Modern Drummer Magazine