What Does it Really Take to Master the Drums?

What does it take to become an excellent percussionist? What should you focus on, and what equipment do you need? Orlando drum teacher Scott L. breaks it down here…

 

As a percussionist for over 12 years, I can tell you that playing the drums requires a bit of coordination and talent. It is not something that you can come up to within one day and be a master. I am still learning daily to harness my skills as a percussionist. To begin your training as a drummer and live your life long dream of “shredding” the drum set, here is the advice I have for you:

1) Practice, practice, practice

The old saying “Practice makes perfect” is extremely correct when playing a musical instrument. You must start with the basics and slowly move your way up. For drummers, the best way to begin is through “8 on a hand.” This exercise isolates the left and right hands in patterns of eight 8th notes with each. You will play 8 times on the right hand, with an immediate switch to the left hand. Using a metronome is highly recommended to keep your timing impeccable. The key in this exercise is to hear a steady movement of notes played throughout the entire time. Even when the hands change, you should not hear a difference in the playing structure. Practice this exercise over and over again before moving the hands around the drums.

2) The drum set makes the player

I have never heard of a rock n’ roll drummer playing a First Act kit. Although it is cheap, the quality matches the price. The best drum sets on the market are by Pearl, Yamaha and DW, in my opinion. Once you have a drum set worth playing on, the heads make the set. Coated heads give the drum a nice non-ring sound, which is what everyone is looking for. Remo is my choice for heads, but Evans are nothing to toy around with either. The higher the price, the higher the quality.

Cymbals are tricky, as there are many choices out there. I choose Zildjian, but Paiste and Sabian are also sought after. The darker tones are for more jazz and light sound. If your style is rock or pop, I would check out the smaller high-pitched sounding ones.

3) Use a metronome and learn to read music

Although most drummers “feel the rhythm,” the best musicians are able to read what they are playing. This will help especially if you find yourself in a funk trying to think of a new groove. Many times I’ve found myself playing the same beat constantly, until I take a look at new grooves.

Always, always, always use a metronome. Drummers are notorious for rushing. The music must be steady and you are the battery to provide that. If you are rushing, the audience will be off, the song will be terrible and the band will sounds disgusting. Do not let this happen to you! Practice with a metronome at all times. Dr. Beat Metronomes are the best to look in to, but are a little pricey. You can find a metronome easily for under $20 or find a free app on your iPhone or smartphone.