Crafting Your Drum Practice Routine
by Nick Douch
Remember, a crucial aspect of playing drums is that it should be fun! Drumming is an incredible experience, and keeping that joy at the forefront will keep you motivated and engaged.
You’ll face challenges throughout your drumming journey, but it’s how you approach these obstacles that defines your growth as a musician. When I’m struggling with a new technique, pattern or song, I often return to the music that originally inspired me as a kid. It rekindles my passion and reminds me why I fell in love with drumming in the first place. Plus I get a real kick out of actually being able play the songs I once dreamed of mastering as a seven-year-old!
Having a structured practice routine is essential for skill development, progress, and enjoying the process. Whether you have 15 minutes or an hour each day, create a balanced routine that includes both challenging exercises and enjoyable playtime.
Here’s a simple yet effective routine:
Practice: Start with warm-ups, such as rudiments and playing with a metronome.
Fun: Play some familiar drum fills and beats that you already know.
Practice: Focus on a specific exercise or a challenging section of a song that needs refinement.
Fun: End with a song you love and can play confidently.
The key is to blend practice with enjoyment and eventually, the time spent practicing will add more to your ‘fun’ list
So, embrace the rhythm, keep the fun alive, and most importantly, enjoy every moment behind the drums.
Now go hit your drums! (With a relaxed grip, stick rebound and a glancing blow on your cymbals of course).
For more information on drum lessons at either our Auckland or North Shore Academies, click here.
