Stick Control: For the Snare Drummer
- George Lawrence Stone

Modern Drummer's #1 drumming book of all-time. The ideal book for improving control, speed, flexibility, touch, rhythm, lightness, delicacy, power, endurance, preciseness of execution, and muscular coordination, with extra attention given to the development of the weak hand.

Master Studies
- Joe Morello

When Joe Morello was studying with George Lawrence Stone, he would create his own variations of the Stick Control patterns. Not a "how-to" book, but rather a workbook of material to use in developing the hands for accenting and controlling the different pressures used in single strokes, double strokes, and closed rolls.

Buddy Rich's Modern Interpretation of Snare Drum Rudiments
- Ted MacKenzie

A systematic course for the beginner, there are 83 lessons of exercises and rudiments, 21 reading exercises, 10 exercises employing rudiments, and advanced rhythmic studies. Another of my go-to books for beginners learning to read and play the standard drum rudiments.

Modern Reading Text in 4/4
- Louis Bellson

This book has become a classic in all musicians' libraries for rhythmic analysis and study. Designed to teach syncopation within 4/4 time, the exercises also develop speed and accuracy in sight-reading with uncommon rhythmic figures. A must for all musicians, especially percussionists interested in syncopation.

Progressive Steps to Syncopation for the Modern Drummer
- Ted Reed

Voted second on Modern Drummer's list of 25 Greatest Drum Books, 'Syncopation' is one of the most versatile and practical works ever written for drums. The standard tool for teaching beginning drummers syncopation and strengthening reading skills.

Time Functioning Patterns
- Gary Chaffee

One of the best and most comprehensive drum methods available. Almost all of my students go through this book when developing basic drum set coordination.

Rhythm & Meter Patterns
- Gary Chaffee

Rhythm and Meter Patterns introduces the student to a wide range of rhythmic and metric possibilities, including odd rhythms, mixed meters, polyrhythms, and metric modulation.

Technique Patterns
- Gary Chaffee

In Technique Patterns is designed to increase technical facility in the hands and feet. Included are exercises on finger control, endurance, multiple-note playing, hand-foot combinations, and more.

The New Breed
- Gary Chester

These systems are not designed to be played strictly as exercises, but used as tools to develop new musical ideas that can be applied to any and all musical styles. By working with this book, you'll improve your reading, concentration, coordination, right and left-hand lead, and tempo. Build the independence and coordination to play anything you may encounter.

Future Sounds
- David Garibaldi

Future Sounds helps drummers develop sophisticated coordination as well as dynamic control and groove awareness. Whether you play rock, heavy metal, jazz or funk, you'll learn to incorporate contemporary linear styles and musical concepts into your playing and develop your own unique drumset vocabulary.