Questions & Answers
What is a ‘StickAroundDrums’ lesson like?
It is like the most thrilling ride at your most favorite amusement park in the entire world!... Well, ok, maybe i’m stetching it here alittle!
But i’ll tell you this... not only will you develop into a very good drummer... mabe even Pro!, but you are guaranteed to have a ton of fun along the way!
(If anyone can put up with my jokes & puns, they deserve to be Great! - lol :)
How long will it take me to learn to play drums?
Each person has their own learning curve. I recommend we both feel very comfortable learning one musical style before proceeding to the next musical style. Obviously, your success will depend greatly on your dedication to that style. The more you practice what you learn, the faster you will achieve your short range goals. Ultimately, when all said and done you will be playing like a Pro!
Do I have to purchase a drum set and cymbals right away?
No. As a matter of fact, I recommend one not to, because of the simple fact a student may find drums are just not their thing, so to speak 2-3 months down the road. One may find themselves gravitating towards sports, or simply another instrument, such as guitar, or piano.
However, what I do recommend in order to get around that, is to simply practice on the rubber practice pad, recommended by
StickAroundDrums. There are various ways one can be shown on how to use the pad effectively, and with a little imagination. Now, if a drum set is already owned, then then that is great. You may however need a set up adjustment and tuning in order for the best playing and practicing to be effective.
Do drums have reading material, similar to that of a guitar or piano?
Drums do have reading materail, Yes!, but it is slightly different than that of a guitar or piano. You would not have to play a ‘G’ chord for instance, or scales, however drums are played with strokes, (a variety of musical notes grouped together - called Rudiments), giving you the sounds of the drum set. Drums are percussion, so they cant quite be put in the same category as the other two, (even though the piano is known as a percussion instrument) because drums don't require melodic nor harmonic skills, only rythmic skills (and a whole lot). As a side note though, no pun intended... you can get various harmonic tones out of your drums based on tuning and pitch bending.
Is it necessary to read music for drums, or can one just play by ear?
Well, I would have to ask this question? Was it necessary for us to read our native language in school or could we have just gotten by with listening to the teacher only? Reading sets an absolute accuracy, which in turn will give one the perfection they are looking for. Reading helps establish a visual in your mind, so one can translate more effectively with their ears. Reading in the end will help one to play by ear Great!
