Have you always been fascinated by the energy of a drummer? Maybe you want to start drumming yourself, but are wondering if drumming is something for you?
In this blog we discuss a question that many beginning drummers ask themselves: is drumming difficult?
Drumming: harder than it seems?
The short (but honest) answer is: no, drumming is not inherently difficult. Drumming (like any other instrument) can be easy or difficult depending on what you want to achieve with it and the amount of time you put into it. Natural talent can also play a role; some people just pick up certain skills earlier than others.
Learning to play the drums at a later age is definitely possible, so don't let that stop you if you're a bit older!
The following applies to drumming:
- The base is accessible: Producing sound on a drum kit is relatively easy. With a little practice you can quickly play simple rhythms and move along with the music.
- The depth is endless: Once you have the basics down, a world of possibilities opens up. From complex fills to complicated time signatures, there is always something new to learn. Even the best drummers are not done learning!
Why do some people find drumming difficult?
There are a number of reasons why drumming is perceived as difficult:
- Coordination: Drumming requires good coordination between your hands and feet. This can take some getting used to at first. Many people tend to play the same with their right hand and right foot, for example, while sometimes they have to perform certain movements independently of each other.
- Endurance: Although this will not be a problem for you as a beginning drummer, it can cause resistance for advanced drummers. Especially when playing fast or complex parts, endurance is important. Good technique (such as sitting up straight and letting the drumstick do the work) can be helpful here.
- Sense of rhythm: Although everyone has a sense of rhythm, developing a good sense of the beat can take time. Where some people have it naturally, others need more practice.
Tips for Beginner Drummers
- Start with the basics: Learn the different parts of the drum kit and practice basic rhythms.
- Find a good teacher: An experienced drum teacher can help you with the right technique and motivate you, which will help you learn to play the drums better. YouTube is also a platform where you can find many (free) drum lessons.
- Practice regularly: The more you practice, the faster you will progress. However, it is better to practice briefly a few times a day than to practice for hours once a week. An electronic drum kit for beginners can be suitable for practicing regularly at any time of the day, because you will not disturb your neighbors.
- Listen to lots of different music: Listening to different styles of music will help you develop a better sense of rhythm and timing.
- Have fun! Drumming should be fun! It can be frustrating when certain techniques don't work out, but you'd be surprised how quickly a person can learn.
Are you curious about the cost of an electronic drum kit? Read How Much Does an Electronic Drum Kit Cost?
Conclusion
Drumming is a fun hobby that is accessible to everyone. Whether you are young or old, with or without musical experience, everyone can learn to play the drums. The most important thing is to have fun and practice regularly.
In addition, there are many online resources, drum lessons and communities available to help you grow as a drummer. It starts with choosing the right (electronic) drum kit and then with lots of practice. But anyone can do it, so can you!
Good luck with the drumming!
