Syncopation lays out basic patterns for snare and bass drum, and *progressively* introduces complexity and coordination challenges. Its utility lies in Reed's presentation of these rhythms: in a succinct and useful way, and covers nearly every rhythmic permutation you could want to play.
Drum Set Notation
Here's a reference that I put together for students of the drum set. It explains the relationship between the notes on the staff and the parts of the kit. Additionally, it helps break down the values of different kinds of rhythmic notation.
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