As drummer’s – our key role is to keep consistent time for the other members of our band.
Understanding basic music theory is a great tool to help drummers with their time keeping and musicality. I strongly encourage all of my students to learn the basic note values, rests and time signatures. I also ensure they work hard to tap their foot whilst they drum.
A great exercise to understand note values and in particular sub-dividing notes, is the attached exercise sheet. It’s an excerpt from my Guide to Pipe Band Drumming Book, Volume 2. Why not give this sheet a go!?
Pipe Band Drumming Rudiments and Exercises
Get your very own copy of the Guide to Pipe Band Drumming book at www.come2drum.com.
The Pipe Band Drumming Blog 
Ahh, now this is practice! I slowed down and thought out the phrasing. Very good exercise. Thanks James.