subject: Drum Lessons DVDs and Books: Can You Really Learn to Play Drums from Them? Tips from a Drum Teacher [print this page] Drum Lessons DVDs and Books: Can You Really Learn to Play Drums from Them? Tips from a Drum Teacher
Many people want to learn to play the drums, but can't afford lessons, or don't have time in their schedule. One option is to teach yourself using drum lessons DVDs and books. But do they work, or are you wasting your money?
As a drum teacher to students starting at age 4, I get asked if these will really work. The answer is yes, provided you get something that you can really use. Here are a few tips on what to look for.
What is Your Level?
You want to look for a DVD or book that starts where you are at. If you are a rank beginner, look for something that shows you how to set up the drum set, hold the sticks, and hit correctly.
A lot of people who learn on their own use improper technique. This can lead to slow playing, pain, and possibly injury. If you use poor technique, your playing won't improve as quickly as it might, and you'll get frustrated and quit. You won't sound as good, either.
This is where having a teacher is perfect. A teacher will correct your mistakes early, so you learn good habits from the start.
Almost every drum instructional DVD or book out there will start with rock and roll grooves. It's what you hear all the time in the music on the radio and tv. If you already know those basics, look for something that will give you more grooves, like jazz, swing, reggae, or hip hop.
Look Around You
Don't limit yourself to what you hear on the radio, or what is popular. Explore other genres. Look at different cultures and countries. Try soca, polka, or klezmer for some upbeat, sweat-inducing fun.
Once I began to listen to world music, I was hooked. I love using odd time signatures. We are used to hearing music with four beats. Some Bulgarian songs go up to 11, 13, or 22!
Don't Be Illiterate
If you don't already know how to read music notes and drum notation, make it a point to learn. It's not as hard as you think, and it will open up the whole world to you. If you want to be a working drummer, you'll need to know how to read charts and music.
Most drum instructional books are written in drum notation. Find something that will explain it to you, then dive in and go slowly. You can do this!
Give Yourself a Fighting Chance
Of course, no matter whether you get books, DVDs, or music lessons, you won't learn very much if you don't set aside time regularly to practice. How much time? Start with ten minutes a day. Everyone has ten minutes a day to spare. That's two commercial sets during your favorite tv show. The next time commercials come on, pick up your sticks and practice the groove on your leg.
Most kids can learn to play drums because they don't censor themselves like adults do. If you're an adult wanting to learn, be easy on yourself. Get something to learn from, go slowly, and realize this is hard to do. After all, you're playing four instruments at once: your left hand, your right hand, your left foot, and your right foot!
Give yourself a pat on the back for each accomplishment, no matter how small. With persistence, you too can learn to play drums from DVDs and books.
