How to Play the Drums Like a Pro

Seatami

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posted on 20 years ago — updated on 1 second ago

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Do you want to learn to play the drums like a pro? You've got to start with a mindset that you want to be the best. You must decide to be totally dedicated and prepare yourself to do whatever it takes. Keep reading for instructions on playing drums like you were born to do it.

Steps

Working Hard

Practice! If you don't practice then you'll never be good. It takes a lot of hard work.

Take drum lessons. Many drummers will tell you that they are self-taught. This leads some drummers to think that lessons are not necessary and they'll often avoid it altogether. We're here to tell you that, without a firm foundation, you could pick up some real bad habits that may take you years to "unlearn". Find a reputable, qualified teacher and study the foundation of drumming before you do anything else. Make sure you know how to read music and that you know the different styles of drumming.

Have the best gear. Remember that a drum kit is as good as the person playing it. A fantastic drum kit tuned and played by a beginner will sound awful, whereas a cheap no name drum kit that is tuned and played by a seasoned drummer can actually sound wonderful. That being said, sturdy hardware is no unnecessary luxury. Get a drum throne that suits your height and supports your weight, and that you can keep proper balance on. Make sure your pedals rum smoothly. And last but not least, make sure your drums and cymbals are stable on their stands.

Market yourself. There is an old saying; "Out of Sight, Out of Mind" and it is one of the truest things ever written. You can be one of the best but if no one sees you play, you can't possibly get hired. Learn marketing techniques and get out in front. Make sure everyone in town knows who you are. Sit in on jam sessions and hand out business cards. Leave no stone unturned.

Follow the "no pain, no gain," mantra. One thing weightlifters understand is that progress in building a muscle really starts when you push past that point where you want to quit. The same goes for drumming too. If you'll really dedicate yourself and practice diligently, you will see a remarkable difference in your playing. Go the extra mile and don't settle for mediocrity.

Be professional. Warm up before every gig, play for the music (not for yourself), be on time, and act professionally. Your reputation will determine how much you work. If you don't take yourself seriously, other musicians won't take you seriously.

Play with other musicians at every opportunity. You will learn much more playing in bands than practicing in your bedroom. Never turn down a gig and always be willing to play unfamiliar styles of music.

Develop your own style. You won't know what your style is if you only copy beats, and once you join a band you can't copy beats for your own music. Never double book yourself and if you really have to cancel a gig, make sure you recommend a reliable dep to fill in.

Playing with More Experienced Musicians

Push yourself to perform with more experienced musicians, even if it's for a rehearsal or a jam session. Don't be afraid; this kind of practice will take your game up to the next level. Of course, they shouldn't be way more experienced than you or it'll lead to some awkwardness. But if you can hold your own in a jam session with them while learning something, then go for it. EXPERT TIP Bart Robley Bart Robley Drummer, Drum Teacher, and Author Bart Robley is a Drummer, Drum Teacher, and Author based in Ontario, California. Bart has been sharing his expertise in drumming knowledge through teaching for over 30 years. He makes his teachings globally accessible by offering lessons in an online format. Bart has authored three instructional books and created three instructional DVDs. He received a Bronze Telly Award in 2009 for his DVD "School Of Hard Rocks. Additionally, Bart has been the drummer for the Sam Morrison Band for over 25 years. Bart Robley Bart Robley Drummer, Drum Teacher, and Author Playing with better musicians elevates your skills. Want to really challenge yourself? Play with musicians who are straight-up better than you. It's intimidating, but trying to keep up with people out of your league is how you get to the next level. Just don't pick people who totally outclass you, or it'll be too much too fast.

Be keen and listen to what the bandleader says. Don't be stubborn about how awesome you are. Take his advice instead. Listen to what you can really take away and use to improve your playing.

If the bandleader says you are too loud or need to calm down, don't take it too personally. He's probably right. He's just trying to get you up to speed with everyone else. Remember that you want to learn to work together with other band members, even if it means you have to adjust your style a bit.

Be aware of your surroundings. Be sensitive to the environment you are playing in, if it's a small room you need to adapt or play quieter, in a large venue you may need to play a bit louder.