Essential Rudiments for a New Drummer to Learn
As a new drummer, you might be asking, 'What do I actually need to learn to become a competent and confident drummer?'
Understanding Sticks and Cymbals
Your stick-holding technique and cymbal placement are foundational skills. For drumsticks, it doesn't matter which hand you hold which stick, but it is important to be consistent. Some drummers find that holding the stick with the larger end up allows for more control and power in their playing.
With cymbals, understand that the side that sits on the stand can be either the top or the bottom. Experiment with different positions and find what feels most natural and produces the best sound.
For the bass drum, it's essential to know how your foot interacts with the pedal. The ball of your foot should rest near the edge of the pedal, but not on the center protrusion or 'roller', as this can lead to unnecessary strain.
Alternative Uses of Brush Sticks
Remember that brushes aren't just for painting or basting ribs on a BBQ. Drummers use them in jazz and other softer styles of music for a subtle and distinctive sound. Knowing when and how to use brushes can greatly enhance your repertoire.
The Monetary Value of Your Skills
Remember that your skills are valuable, and you will typically be paid based on your worth. However, if you play exceptionally well, you might be offered a higher rate. This is true whether you're new or experienced.
The Importance of Routine and Practice
One of the most important things a drummer can learn is the routine of practicing regularly. In my time as a marching band drummer, I found that everyone played rudiments, and I still practice them on anything I play. Percussion, after all, doesn’t mean the instruments have sticks per se, but the techniques are similar.
Understanding Rudiments: The Cornerstone of Drumming
There are 40 basic rudiments to learn, but many are combinations of a few core techniques. For example, a flam is a combination of a single stroke and a drag.
Some rudiments that are essential to learn include single-strokes, double-strokes, diddles, paradiddles, flams, drags, ruffs, and buzz rolls. You should also be familiar with different note values, such as quarter notes, eighth notes, sixteenth notes, and dotted notes. Understanding time signatures is crucial too.
Techniques for Effective Drumming
Proper stick-holding technique involves understanding the upbeats versus downbeats, the Mueller technique, fulcrum, and rebound. These techniques are key to achieving a balanced and expressive sound.
When it comes to drums, specifically the drum set, you should start with basic patterns like the backbeat, rock beat, shuffle beat, triplet beat, and swing beat. Learning these foundational beats is essential for building a strong foundation.
Choosing the Right Resources
The most recommended path is to get a good teacher, if possible. However, drums books and online courses are fantastic alternatives. Being systematic and taking it one step at a time is crucial.
I would recommend starting with a book on snare drum rudiments and then moving to a book on playing the drum set. Some recommend focusing on snare drum rudiments for at least a month or so before tackling the drum set. My teacher didn’t start me on the drum set until almost a year after starting lessons, emphasizing the importance of mastering the rudiments first.
The Impact of Loud Sounds
Apart from technique and skills, it's vital to understand the impact of loud sounds, especially on your hearing. Tinnitus, a condition caused by damage to the delicate sensory hairs in the ear, can lead to constant buzzing, banging, whistling, and crackling, potentially leading to serious health issues and even affecting your quality of life.
Drummers need to remember that the rest of the band plays different instruments and wishes to hear them clearly. With the right sound equipment and protective measures, you can ensure that you can still enjoy conversation and leisure activities without the constant annoyance of loud, lingering sounds.
As a drummer, it's your responsibility to be aware of the potential damage loud noises can cause and take necessary precautions. Loud, high-power, explosive noises can and do permanently damage hearing. Don't underestimate the importance of protecting your hearing.
Remember, being a drummer is about more than just playing; it's about knowing how to take care of yourself and your craft. Happy drumming!