How to Transcribe Jazz Drums

👑Want to study with me? Click here: https://www.thejazzschool.com/lp 🗺️Free Jazz Drumming Couse: https://www.thejazzschool.com/jdp?vid... If you’ve ever tried to transcribe a jazz solo and felt overwhelmed or unsure if it’s even helping your playing—you’re not alone. In this video, I walk you through the three main types of transcription and show you the one that’s most useful if your goal is to actually sound better when you improvise. We’ll break down a short phrase from Kenny Washington’s trading 4's on Hey Mr. Mumbles, and I’ll guide you step-by-step through how to figure it out using tools like audiation, strong and weak beats, and a simple question-based framework to make it all feel intuitive. Whether transcription has felt intimidating or you’re just looking for a clearer process—this video will help you connect what you hear to what you play. Time stamps: 00:00 – Why most transcriptions don’t work 01:14 – Three types of transcription 03:35 – What is transcription for creativity? 05:28 – Kenny Washington on “Hey Mr. Mumbles” 06:15 – Step 1: Transcribe yourself, not the record 07:30 – Step 2: Find the subdivision 08:40 – Step 3: Orchestration 09:25 – How many of each drum? 10:00 – Understanding strong and weak beats 12:50 – Step 5: Where do the ideas start and end? 14:55 – Is it okay to slow it down? (yes) 16:00 – Step 6: Locking in the phrase 17:45 – Do you need notation software? 18:30 – Step 7: Listen for subtle details 20:00 – Recap: Full transcription process 21:40 – Final thoughts & what to do next