Drums are known as the backbone of music providing a song’s driving force. This instrument truly holds the reigns of live performance controlling the tempo and volume of the band. Playing drums can be highly cathartic and a good workout- but is it right for you?
Picking up the Sticks
Drums are one of the easiest instruments to start learning and many professional drummers are completely self-taught. However, mastering the instrument requires a full understanding of the rhythm, structure, and dynamic of music, as well as independence between all four limbs.
Anyone can smack a drum but truly excelling takes diligent study and focus and practice, practice, practice.
Versatility of Percussion
Drum-sets have been a huge part of mainstream music ever since the Big Band Jazz era, but percussion instruments span throughout all history and are known to have existed as far back as 6000 BC making them the oldest instrument we are aware of. Not too difficult to imagine when all you need for percussion is two things you can slam into one another. Its simplicity makes its versatility that much greater. Virtually every genre has made room for percussion, so whatever you listen to you can bop along with a beat.
Physicality and Emotions in Drumming
Drumming is extremely active. At first you may only play for 15 minutes before you feel like your arms will fall off. Keep working at it though and you will earn the muscles and callouses needed to perform multi-hour shows and keep your body in shape. And just like working out, drumming is perfect stress relief. Not many things are made to withstand consistent beating and what’s better than turning your anger or anxiety into art?
The Price Tag
Drums are known for being on the pricey side, however there are great opportunities for those wishing to try it out. There are a number of starter-kits available on the market and there are always good quality used sets at Music Go Round for a couple hundred bucks that are perfect for learning and practice. Whenever you’re ready to move up you can bring in your old set and trade up for a better one. On the low end of professional drum kits expect around $450 while top of the line gear can reach a few thousand dollars.
