Technique

Ghost Notes

Very quiet or muted notes that add rhythmic detail.

In plain English

Ghost notes are felt more as texture and rhythm than as prominent pitches. Drummers often play them softly on the snare, while string players may create them with muted strokes.

Try or listen for this

Keep the main backbeat strong, then add very soft snare taps between those accents without changing the pulse.

Why it matters

Ghost notes can make a groove feel alive, but they only work when their volume and timing remain clearly beneath the main notes.