Three essential drumming tips for 2022
As the year comes to a close, everyone is assessing the year gone by, what they loved and what they would like to improve in the years to come. Most drummers are constantly practicing and getting better every day; the grind makes the instrument so rewarding and stimulating. Here are three tips to help you improve as a drummer in 2022!
Tip 1: Ask yourself why!
When learning anything or looking to improve in a particular instrument or skill, it is essential to ask yourself why? Why do you want to get better at the drums? A strong “why” will help you get through the most challenging practice routines!
Your “why” could be anything. You could want to be one of the best drummers in the world and play stadiums, or you want to get better at the drums so you can play along well with your favorite songs! It is important to remember and hold on to this “why” whatever it is, no matter how many times it changes! It will help to propel you towards your goals on the instrument.
Tip 2: Divide up your practice time!
Your practice time is the most valuable time of the day for progression on the drums, whether you are playing an acoustic kit, e-kit, practice pad, or tapping on your knees. Dividing up your practice time can be a helpful way to keep it interesting.
For example, if you have two hours you have given yourself to play the drums, you can split that into four half-hour chunks. Chunk one is warming up, having fun, and getting all the pent-up energy out of your system. Chunk two is rudiments and technique, chunk three is groove and independence, and chunk four is playing to songs and creativity.
Dividing up your time can ensure that no time is wasted, and you can cover lots of topics in the amount of time you have, no matter how long or short! You can divide your time into however many chunks you like, and the subjects will change depending on where you are in your drumming journey.
Tip 3: Try listening to new music!
This next one is up for debate. Many incredible drummers have become incredibly skilled at their particular genre or style by focusing entirely on one lane of music or drumming style. Repetitive conscious practice of one thing over time will 100% lead to progression.
However, opening yourself up to new music styles can help you bring new ideas into your playing. For example, if you are primarily into western pop and rock, try listening to Afro-Caribbean and South American music. The rhythms played in these styles of music will be so different from what you are used to! Learning them will improve your playing and allow you to spark your creative playing with something new.
Overall, expanding your musical horizons to new genres is definitely a positive thing and can help you work with many different musicians throughout your drumming journey!
This concludes our three drumming tips for 2022! Be sure to check back soon for more exciting articles in the Millenium Drums Magazine, including New Products, Discover Articles, Education, and Support! Thank you very much for reading! In case of any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out at Millenium Drums Contact!