You can learn the drums yourself in 10 simple steps. All you need is a drum set and a willingness to learn and if you are willing to spare your time then don’t worry we have got you covered.
The first step is to buy an electric drum
There are plenty of drum sets available in the market and you might be inclined towards picking a set whose looks are better but there are other factors also which need to be looked upon while buying a drum like a drum set should be of good quality, should have a nice tone and solid drum hardware. But, an electronic drum set is the most appropriate choice of drums that a beginner should have. Apart from being quiet, they sound great, take less space and are more affordable as compared to the acoustic drum set.
Second step is to learn how one should hold the drumsticks
Now, since you have a drumset it is important for you to know how you should hold drumsticks. There are two ways in which you can hold the drumstick, one is a matched grip and the other is a traditional grip.
In a matched grip you hold the drumsticks with your hands and your thumb should be opposite to the index finger, this pinching between your thumb and index finger is called the pivot point. It has further classifications like in the American grip in which you rotate your hand at a 45-degree angle in this way you can use your fingers for control or in the German way where you hold the drumsticks with your palm facing downward and you use your wrist for playing. Traditional grip is used for drum lines, for this grip you need to place the drumstick between your thumb and index finger and allow the stick to rest on the ring finger such that your middle finger is on top of the stick. Now, hold the stick, rotate your forearm and start playing.
As a beginner, you can choose any technique your choice but it is important to be good at the technique that you choose, else drumming will be tough for you and might increase the chance of injury.
Third step is to gather knowledge about basic drum beats
You are learning on your own so it is important for you to figure out how to set the tone, tempo and rhythm of each song so you should start by gathering basic knowledge about the beats.
You can start with ‘kicks and snare’. It is one of the most basic drum beats and only requires one hand and one foot. Learning drum beats will allow you to progress faster and make sure that you have good control over the drums.
Fourth step is to know how to play drum rudiments.
After you have all the equipment and techniques, you should move onto drumming. Drum rudiments are the most important blocks of playing the drums. In total there are 40 rudiments and each has its own rhythm and pattern. If you have knowledge about all these rudiments that means you have good control over the drumset.
Don’t be demotivated if you cannot learn all the rudiments together. You are a beginner so it is preferable for you to learn step by step, so start with 4 rudiments which are single-stroke rolls, double-stroke rolls, paradiddles and flams and then move along, it will ensure that your foundation about the instrument is strong.
Fifth step is to get in touch with a metronome
A metronome might sound like a boring idea but it will make your journey a lot easier in the drumming world. A metronome is important because it allows you to maintain a steady tempo while playing and also ensures that you develop a sense of rhythm and time. It is important to use a metronome if you are playing live, recording a video or practising because when you do the song transitions it is difficult to keep up with the speed of the fills and preferably it should be done in time to create a more dynamic effect. In this case, the metronome acts as a fill-up and allows you to play with a perfect rhythm.
Hence, a metronome is a perfect tool if you want to keep a track of your progress, figure out the right tempos and make sure that the main components of the song are played correctly.
Sixth step is to learn how to read drum sheet music
If you want to be a good drummer you should be aware of how to read drum sheet music. It is difficult at first but once you understand this it can be used as a secret weapon.
It is preferable to start with simple exercises like trying quarter notes and quarter rests only on one drum, reading rhythmic exercises out loud before you begin to practice because it establishes a bond between your body and drums and allows you to play better. Now, when you start playing make sure both your hands are coordinated and you are using a metronome to stay in tune. After you have passed this level try to play one rhythm with your left hand and another with your right hand. After you have mastered this you can move onto the feets and coordinate them with your hands.
Seventh step is to secure your hearing
It is always important to protect your ears while playing the drums. You should always wear headphones or earplugs when behind the drum set. It is preferable to invest in good quality headphones as it will not only cancel the disturbance from outside but will also prevent damaging your ears permanently.
Eight step is to learn about the theory of the subject
The fastest way to acquire skills about learning drums is by reading and learning. It will only enhance your knowledge about the subject and will allow you to be more comfortable around the instrument. Once you are familiar with the theory you can easily distinguish between various rhythms and can improvise when needed. The theory provides you with all the essential knowledge about the instrument and allows you to be more creative.
Ninth step is to develop practice habits
It is very important for you to do constant practice if you want to master the art. Once you begin to practice daily you will see a change in your rhythmic movements and an observable improvement in the pattern in which you play the drums. Remember not to give up in case of some errors just keep practising and you will achieve heights.
Tenth step is to get in touch with a good teacher.
It is important to get in touch with a teacher if you wish to improve your skills. The teachers will give you honest feedback and will help you in meeting your goals. But you don’t need to worry as Innwiser provides interactive online classes with one-on-one time with tutors. Here you can easily find a suitable personal teacher of your choice and contact them. Not only this you can also enrol for various webinars, and courses and can attend live classes. This will allow you to perform well because of the guidance given to you by our teachers. Besides, you can also get expert advice about learning music with the finest teachers available at the tip of your fingers.
Also if you are not sure about pursuing this path you can join a short course and explore it for yourself. And based on that you can make a decision whether you want to continue or not.
FAQ
Q) How can I practice without disturbing others?
Playing an acoustic drum comes with a lot of noise but don’t worry you need to get a practice pad, metronome and headphones and if you have it all you can practice easily without the fear of disturbing anyone else whereas in an electronic drum, there is only a fraction of noise which will disappear once you wear headphones so there is no chance of disturbing anyone outside.
Q) Do I need to read music?
Ideally yes, it makes your process of learning drums a lot easier, and faster and opens up new opportunities. At first, it might be difficult but with constant practice, you will be able to ace it.
Q) I want to start taking drumming lessons as an adult, is it ok?
Yes, it’s completely fine. You are never too old to learn music, your brain is always ready to learn and accept new things.
Q) Is it important to take care of my drum set?
Yes, it is extremely important to take care of your drumset, your drums tend to not work properly even after the most basic performance so it is important for you to take care of your drums to stay away from mechanical problems.
Q) I have some questions in my mind?
Feel free to drop your questions; we will address all your queries and get back to you.