How to Practice the Drums Correctly

The old adage “practice makes perfect” is certainly true for musicians, athletes, artists and for the development of any skill.  Practicing musical instruments teaches musicians as much about themselves as it does about the instrument and music they wish to master.

Perhaps musicians benefit the most from repetitive practice sessions.  Creating a meaningful practice mindset and routine go hand in hand with achieving a higher level of play.  Practicing the drums should be a disciplined, goal-oriented pursuit of improved play.  Great musicians enjoy practice.  This is their time to study, perfect and increase their appreciation for their talent.  Drummers who do not enjoy practicing should pursue another skill.

Practicing the drums and playing the drums are two completely different musical activities.  Another wise adage says drummers do not play when they practice and do not practice when they play.  The reality is that the more effective the drummer’s practice routine, the better drummer will play.

While most serious drummers settle into their own routine, it never hurts to have a checklist to help build that routine:

• Set your posture – proper posture is important to every musical instrument but with the drums it is essential. Establish a playing posture that allows you to stay focused and is comfortable for extended periods. Your posture says a lot about your passion.
• Warm up session – dedicate the first ten to fifteen minutes to a good loosening warm up. Play basic rudiments on a pad to get your wrists, body and mind ready for action.
• Let me Hear You Count – Counting out loud helps the drummer work through those challenging beats and rhythms. Make sure your play and your count are on line.
• Metronomes welcome – A metronome is a handy practicing tool. The metronome keeps you on track and on pace through those especially grueling sessions.
• Win the Session – Every session is the accomplishment of those little goals set by the drummer prior to the session. As the lesson unfolds, obstacles will arise. Do not pass them by. Achieve one complete goal at a time. Celebrate your victories with a victory lap and finish ion a high note.

Musicians, like athletes, wind down at the end of a practice session.  A quick way to refresh the session is to ask yourself three basic questions:

• What did I do right today?
• What did I do that needs improvement?
• What did l learn today?

These questions signal the end of this practice routine, but will help set the tone of your next session.