The drums are a very challenging instrument to play and are a trendy choice among novice musicians. There are different types of drums. These are all put together in different configurations to make a drum kit. Configurations can range from basic ones with five pieces to much more complex ones where various additions surround the drummer. The drums are an essential part of all genres of music. They are also one of the few instruments with such variety in playing styles. Even though anyone can learn to play the drums, people with a sense of rhythm will be able to pick up the nuances much faster. Here are some tips for people looking to learn them.
- Start with a practice pad – Sticking is the most integral technique used in drumming. This is where one needs to start.A practice pad and a decent pair of sticks are all one needs to master the basic rudiments. Doing this before moving on to the kit will give one more headspace to get used to the feel of playing an actual kit.
- Get a proper practice setup – The major issue with playing the drums is the sound. The drum is a very loud instrument, making it very hard for drummers to find a comfortable practice space. If one lives in an area with less population density, it might be easier, but if it is in a cramped city, sound isolation will have to be done in the practice room. Getting an electronic kit can also solve this problem as they can even be used with headphones.
- Do not ignore music theory – People may think that music theory is for polyphonic instruments, but that is very wrong. It is just as important in rhythmic instruments too. Theoretical concepts should be learned and applied while playing. Familiar songs can also be deconstructed with the help of theory.
- Always practice with a metronome – Staying in time is very important when playing rhythmic instruments. There is no other way to do that other than using a metronome during practice. It can even be used while practising with one’s band or friends.
- Make a goal-oriented practice schedule – Now that one has figured out what to play and where to play, not missing out on any of the exercises and giving everything equal importance is the next target. This is done with the help of a practice schedule. Ideally, this schedule should have a warm-up section, the main practice section, and a warm down section. The warm-up routine can be made from the rudiments and their exercises. Techniques that one wants to appropriate can be included in this part of the schedule. The main practice section can be made of songs/sections one wants to learn, and the warm down can be songs/sections one already knows. There are different ways of making a practice schedule. These should be experimented with until one finds something that works and brings progress.
- Nothing is impossible – There are many talented people in all fields, including drumming. Sometimes, seeing a virtuosic drummer can cause one to doubt their capabilities. Just remember there are years of work that has gone into their playing. They are humans too, and with the right amount of practice, anything is possible.
Drumming has many benefits, like increasing the efficiency of the brain and boosting creativity. Good drummers are also in demand. But the pursuit of music shouldn’t be for such material benefits. It is capable of providing much more and can connect and convey things to anyone.
