When you’re learning to play drums, it’s important to remember that it takes hard work, determination, and patience in order to improve.
It may be a slow process, but don’t get discouraged; even experienced drummers had to start somewhere.
Need some inspiration? Here, 11 experienced drummers share their best advice for beginners.
“Never stop learning from everyone around you. Confidence, skill, dedication, and determination will ensure you go far!”
#NeverStop – @lindsaybird44 – Ontario, Canada drummer for @DirtyJeans
“Never give up and don’t listen to anyone who tells you that you can’t play because your’e different. And no matter what you do, love what you’re doing. Smile and have fun! It’s what music is all about.”
@Jynyates – professional drum set and percussion teacher
“Take lessons. They give you a solid basis to build on until you’re ready to step out and explore on your own. You can never be too good at rudiments!”
@harryomatic – drummer for JuneBug
“When it comes to getting good at anything, you have to put in the time; practice, practice, practice. Take lessons and learn from anyone and everyone. Play, play, play, and always have fun!”
@Richredmond – drummer, producer, and author
“Practice from the head, play from the heart.”
@Jonesylessons – Ireland session player and teacher
“Get a metronome, and always practice with it. It will help you keep time. And practice hard and don’t give up on your dreams.”
@drummerboi911 – Hole Dug Deep drummer
“Make it your passion! Even the simplest of lessons can be an intense learning experience! Also, watch ALL drummers and absorb what you see!
@jeffpagedrums – Burbank, CA drum teacher, drummer for @alicecooperland @theremotesband and @its_memargaret
“I tell my students who struggle learning a new beat: If you can sing it, you can (almost) play it.” #rhythmisamelody
#rhythmisamelody – @beckbeat – touring drummer and songwriter
“Practicing without goals is like playing basketball without a hoop.”
@keithperc – Salt Lake City musician and educator
“Live in the pocket. This is so crucial. Play for the band and not for yourself; your career will go a long way!”
@MattPana – Mitchell Grey drummer
“Learn the 40 rudiments early in your drumming career and NEVER stop practicing them! Mastering these will enhance your creativity behind the kit when playing beats and fills. Practice the rudiments on a practice pad and then apply them to the drum kit using multiple drums, cymbals, and even your feet.”
@MikeD_rums – New Jersey-based drummer
Follow these words of wisdom, keep practicing, and stick with. Before you know it, you’ll be an experienced drummer just like these guys, and beginner drummers will look to you for your advice!
Ready to get started? Search for a drum teacher near you!
Photo by Anais
Please read Tom Tom Magazine, and educate yourself about female drummers so that when you’re trying to be inspirational or helpful to beginner drummers in the future, you can remember that some of us are girls and women. We need and want to hear encouragement and wisdom from other seasoned female drummers, too — not just 100% dudes 100% of the time.
Absolutely, Dana! That’s why we love the quote from Lindsay. We also highlight other female drummers in this article: /blog/4-female-drummers-who-totally-rock-z07. Enjoy!
These are some fantastic tips and I like what Jeff Page says about making it your passion. After all, if you’re planning to start getting into drum lessons then you’ll need to be passionate about it. That way you have the energy and drive to stick to the lessons no matter how taxing they get.