Percussion Lessons.
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ime, they also add color, texture, dynamic, and interesting sounds to each piece of music. Some percussion instruments, like timpani, tubular bells, marimba, xylophone, glockenspiel, and piano, require tuning and play specific notes. These are known as pitched percussion instruments. Other percussion instruments — including the castanets, claves, snare and bass drums, triangle, tambourine, and agogo bells — are considered unpitched. 

There are an infinite number of percussion instruments because almost anything can be used to make percussion sounds. From tapping a hollowed-out gourd to shaking a bottle of rice, the range, tone, and application of percussion instruments is limitless. If you decide to learn percussion, you'll likely be responsible for playing many instruments within your band or orchestra. 

Why Learn Percussion?

Apart from being a fun and exciting skill to learn and practice, playing percussion is highly beneficial. Percussionists use every part of their body: hands, feet, arms, legs, and brains simultaneously to keep time and fill out the sound produced by an orchestra or band. As a result, both children and adults who learn percussion become highly coordinated and possess exceptional motor skills. 

The repetitive movements involved in playing percussion can also be quite the workout. Whether you're shaking a set or maracas or playing 100 beats per minute on a full drum set, you're bound to work up a sweat while practicing and performing. Percussion instruments are a heart-healthy choice, which allow you to elevate your heart rate and workout to music you're making yourself.

The Best Way to Learn Percussion and What You'll Study in Percussion Classes

Although you can find plenty of free percussion classes online, by far the best way to learn is with a private percussion tutor. With a private tutor, you'll advance quickly, receiving immediate feedback and your instructor's undivided attention. Your instructor will help you stay motivated as you focus on the topics and music that interests you most, while learning at a pace that's comfortable for you. 

Plus, all private lessons are customized to each student's individual interests, goals, and abilities. For example, percussions lessons for kids differ greatly in terms of course content and teaching style from percussion classes for adults. Your teacher will also customize your lessons based on the type of percussion instrument(s) you're interested in practicing. 

Sample Curriculum for Beginner Percussion Lessons

Beginner lessons are intended for students with little or no previous experience. You'll learn the basics that'll get you started with one or more percussion instruments and set you up for future success. Your beginner percussion teacher might cover the following topics:

• Introduction to drum and percussion notation
• How to play your instrument
• Proper posture
• Understanding time signatures
• Keeping basic beats and marching

Sample Curriculum for Intermediate Percussion Classes

In intermediate lessons, you'll improve and build upon rudimentary percussion skills. You'll learn new techniques and develop your style. In intermediate percussion lessons, you might cover the following topics:

• Accented 16th notes and timing
• Double beats
• Rolls
• Mallet techniques
• Dynamics

Sample Curriculum for Advanced Percussion Lessons

Students who are already proficient with a drum kit and know their way around the percussion section of an orchestra are ready for advanced lessons. Topics covered in advanced lessons depend greatly on the individual student's interests and goals, but your instructor might cover some of the following topics: 

• Improvisation and soloing
• Developing individual style
• Navigating the music business
• Audition coaching
• Performance preparation

How to Find a Percussion Teacher Near You

If you're ready to start learning percussion, you'll need a percussion tutor. Finding a percussion teacher on TakeLessons is easy! A quick search will direct you to a variety of highly qualified and experienced percussion teachers. Look for one who specializes in your preferred percussive instrument. We recommend reading through several teacher profiles and browsing reviews left by other percussion students before selecting the tutor who's right for you. 

The price of percussion lessons varies, but most teachers charge time-based rates per lesson. With so many teachers to choose from, finding one who fits your budget and your schedule is simple. Plus, studying with a private tutor is well-worth the investment. Private lessons pay off quickly, when you learn to play percussion fast and have fun doing so!