Many people think that learning an instrument is something you have to do in your youth, but that is definitely not the case! Drumming is a form of music that is accessible to everyone, regardless of age.
In this blog we explain whether it is possible to learn to play drums at a later age, how to get started and what the benefits are of learning to play an instrument at a later age, especially drumming.
In this blog
Why Drumming at a Later Age?
We all know that children learn faster and more efficiently than adults. But that doesn't mean that as an adult you are done learning and can't discover a new hobby and become good at it.
Besides the fact that it is fun to learn something new, it is training your brain important to keep your brain healthy and fit. But why would you learn a new instrument at a later age?
Exercising Passion
Many people have a lifelong passion for music but have never found the time to learn an instrument. If you have always been fascinated by the rhythm and power of drumming, now is the time to get those drumsticks out!
Stress reduction
Does drumming help with stress? Yes, it does!
Drumming is an excellent way to relieve stress. The physical aspect of hitting the drums, combined with the mental focus required to follow rhythms and patterns, can help to calm the mind and balance the emotions.
Creative and Sporty Outlet
Making music offers a creative outlet that, if you enjoy it, can really enrich your life. Furthermore, drumming is one of the few instruments that involves physical activity with all your limbs.
You can compare a good drumming session to a workout, where you are not only physically but also mentally busy to achieve a goal.
How to Start Playing Drums?
“But where do I start?”, you may ask. That makes sense, because buying a drum kit is simply different from buying a harmonica. To start learning to play the drums at a later age, you can consider the following tips:
Acoustic or Electronic?
If you don't have a drum kit yet, it's a good idea to first decide whether you want an acoustic or electronic drum kit.
An acoustic drum kit will always feel the most realistic and authentic. However, there are a few disadvantages to acoustic kits:
- Noise pollution: a drum kit produces a lot of noise and is therefore generally not suitable for apartments or terraced houses
- Space: An acoustic drum kit generally takes up more space
- Price: Acoustic drums are usually more expensive than electronic drums
Electronic drum kits counteract all these problems and allow you to drum undisturbed with headphones on.
💡 Tip: Are you considering purchasing an electronic drum kit? Then take advantage of the Selection aid and find your ideal electronic drum kit within 40 seconds.
Consider Drum Lessons
A good drum school can help you to quickly master the basics. A drum teacher can also think along with you and map out your specific needs to get even more out of your lessons.
Another option is to follow online drum lessons, for example at Drumeo. Also via YouTube you can follow thousands of drum lessons (for free).
Start with the Basics
Start learning basic rhythms and simple drum techniques. Practice regularly and be patient. Remember: If you want to run, you need to know how to walk first. In other words: Start slow and build up the pace gradually.
Don't try to play complicated patterns right away, that will come later. The first step in learning to play drums later in life is to master the basics.
Practice Regularly (And Have Fun)
Consistency is key. It is helpful to introduce regularity into your practice pattern. For example, practice for fifteen minutes every day, instead of once a week for hours at a time.
Perhaps most importantly, do what you enjoy! Try to play along with your favorite music so that drumming feels natural and becomes extra enjoyable because you are playing along with songs you know.
The Benefits of Learning Drums Later in Life
There are several advantages to learning to play the drums later in life, namely:
Improved Coordination
The drums are the only instrument where you use both your hands and feet. This is a good exercise to improve your coordination. This can be especially useful as you get older, because it helps keep the brain active.
Mental Stimulation
When you make music, your brain is stimulated in a unique way. Learning new rhythms and patterns helps to keep cognitive functions sharp. It can also help to improve memory and concentration.
Social Connections
Drumming is something you can easily do on your own, but how much fun is it when you can share your passion for music with others?
When you have mastered a few basic principles of drumming, you can take the step to play in a band. There are various platforms on the internet where drummers are sought or offered.
Physical Health
Whether you play jazz or metal, as a drummer you are always in motion. Depending on the style of music you hit harder or softer, but you can also develop your own style.
Drumming is a physical activity that burns calories. Without realizing it, you are also doing sports as a drummer.
Conclusion
It is never too late to learn something new. Drumming is a good example of a skill that you can actually pick up at any time, no matter how old you are. Whether you are 2 or 102 years old, music is something for all generations and so is the rhythm of a drum kit.
Learning to play the drums later in life has several advantages, and if you follow the above tips, it will undoubtedly be something that will enrich your life. Playing the drums is fun and rewarding, but can also open up new possibilities, regardless of your age or experience.
