Rhythmic Imagination: Brazilian Rhythms Coordination Studies ibook

This method is fruit of the extensive use and experimentation of my own material with students

for over a decade. It seeks to help Brazilian music students develop the aptitude for the execution

of rhythms, however, ascending some steps further in the sense of rhythmic independence.

In a general way, I was inspired by the systems methodology proposed by Gary Chester’s

book “The New Breed – Systems for the Development of Your Own Creativity”, which was

previously used by Alan Dawson, reproduced and published by John Ramsay in the book “The

Drummer’s Complete Vocabulary As Taught by Alan Dawson”. I also used concepts of two other

books I’d studied widely: “4-Way Coordination”, by Marvin Dahlgren and Elliot Fine, and a

series of reading content pertaining to “The Complete Book of Modern Drumming”, by Norman

Grossman.

With these ideas in mind I created systems and rhythmic interpretation when reading two or

three-voice reading. Prior to this, I’d concentrated on the concept of harmonic coordination,

proposing systems where some voices overlap.

The result of this mix – and of years of experimenting with students – shaped the necessity of

exposing this to other drum students who are interested in projecting themselves further than

coordination practice.

I’ve read through your book and fi nd it very interesting and challenging. In general

I prefer books where the author uses their expertise to show the most valuable,

versatile and best sounding material on their topic. That being said, pushing the

limits is good too and that’s what your book does very well.

JOHN RILEY DRUMMER AND EDUCATOR

Rhythmic Imagination brings a fresh, systematized approach to learning how

to improvise on traditional Brazilian Rhythms. Borrowing from study methods

used by jazz drummers, Montagner’s exercises present a platform of possibilities,

assisting the development of a drummer’s unique creative voice. Thorough

study of the exercises presented in this book will improve 4 way coordination,

improvisational vocabulary and reading skills while building an awareness of drum

set sound balance. I highly recommend Rhythmic Imagination for any drummer

serious about playing modern Brazilian Music.

CASEY SCHEUERELL DRUMMER AND EDUCATOR BERKLEE SCHOOL OF MUSIC

In this book Ramon succeeded to combine the magical world of Brazilian rhythms

with smart coordination exercises. He shares with us his deep knowledge of the

Brazilian drum set tradition and helps us mastering this using six standard grooves

combined with musical and practical reading pages with different voicings. I’m

using his book in my lessons at the Amsterdam and Rotterdam Conservatory.

Highly recommended!

LUCAS VAN MERWIJK DRUMMER AND HEAD PROFESSOR AT THE CONSERVATORY OF

ROTTERDAM AND CONSERVATORY OF AMSTERDAM

Dear drummer friends: you have in your hands one of the highest-leveled

knowledge from one of the greatest drummers in the planet. I know his dedication

up close and Ramon’s passion for the instrument and the research, and I know that

the entire musical community is very grateful to him for sharing his knowledge

with us. Thank you for the gift.

EDU RIBEIRO DRUMMER AND EDUCATOR