Setting aside the time you’ll need for regular lessons and practice, deciding which types of drums you’d like to learn, and finding an experienced instructor are all good ways to get ready for drum lessons. Drums, contrary to popular belief, are not an easy instrument to learn for many new musicians. Drum lessons can be a great way to learn the basics, but experienced drummers often say that dedicated and consistent practice sessions are necessary for improvement. A good drum instructor can also teach you the proper mental attitude and work habits to help you get the most out of each practice session.
One of the most important steps is to set aside enough time to devote to your drum lessons, but it is often overlooked. Drum lessons are usually scheduled once a week in 30- or 60-minute sessions, with many drum teachers recommending a certain number of practice hours in between. It’s critical that you schedule these practice sessions around your other work or school commitments if you want to make progress on the drums. At your next drum lesson, skipping home practice will be obvious, and this habit can easily equal lost time and money.
Starting drum lessons can be exciting because you have so many options when it comes to which drums to learn. Snare drums are usually considered good beginning choices if you want to eventually play in a marching ensemble such as a pipe and drum band. This component should ideally be included in your practice sessions as well, as your instructor will usually have you learn beats while marching at the same time.
If you want to learn to play the drums in a band, you should have the opportunity to experiment with various musical styles such as rock and blues before deciding which one is your favorite to play. A drum instructor who has played a variety of styles can be a valuable source of information. It’s also a good idea to set up a dedicated practice area where your drumming won’t disturb others once you’ve purchased a beginner’s drum kit.
The right drum teacher can make all the difference in your drumming endeavors. A drummer who is skilled in at least two musical genres can help you add a lot of stylistic variety to your playing. It can take some time to find the best drum instructor for you, but it usually pays off handsomely.