Learn to Play Drums - Top Tips To Get You Started!

Set-up When you start to learn to play drums, it is important to establish the kids drum set correctly to ensure that all drums and cymbals are conveniently within reach, and in the right height to avoid too extensive. The snare drum should be positioned between the legs at about waist height when seated. The high hat just to the left of the snare drum with cymbals around 4 "to snare. The tall Tom Tom (s) in front and slightly above snare sloping towards you and Floor Tom Tom on your right side at the same height as the snare.

Tuning - Like any other instrument, a children's drum kit must be prepared to provide the best sound. From the base drum, which should be tuned to low E by adjusting the tension in the lugs along the edge. Next is the floor Tom Tom, followed by high Tom Tom (s) so that the sound of each drum is slightly higher than the last. The snare drum has a sound all its own, created by the twisted wires stretched over the bottom skin. Be careful not to tighten the upper skin, as this will reduce the natural bounce of the stick.

Dampening - Most base drums and Tom Tom on children drum kits will give a noticeable ring when struck, which can be very annoying and detracts from the overall sound. I recommend using felt strips stretched above and below the upper skin (you'll have to remove the top skin to do this). This will help absorb the ring and give a satisfactory dunk when playing.

Practice - When you learn to play drums, do not try to run before you can go, it will take time and a lot of practice to become proficient. Start slowly just get used to peddle the base and top hat. Game 4 beats to the bar with base peddle and 2 battles in a top hat, 2 & 3 Beat. Then introduce snare with your left hand (if right handed) on the same beat as a top hat called off beat. The base drum is played on the beat and the high hat and snare drum on Off Beat. Now you can try to play 4 beats to the bar at ride cymbal with your right hand to match the base drum. Congratulations you have now learned the basic 4 / 4 rhythm.

Finally, look for some inspiration, listen and watch some good technical drumming from the great artists. My personal favorite is Buddy Rich, arguably one of the best jazz drummers of his time who unfortunately passed away in 1987. Check out the YouTube clip of Buddy Rich played his heart out and be inspired.