Don’t Feel Like Practicing? Read On…
Why Practice Matters
Mastery is a Journey, Not a Destination Every legendary drummer—from Buddy Rich to Sheila E.—started with the basics. Practice is where you lay the groundwork for precision, creativity, and control. It’s not about perfection but progress.
Building Muscle Memory Drumming isn’t just a mental exercise; it’s deeply physical. Regular practice trains your muscles to instinctively execute complex rhythms and fills, giving you freedom on the kit.
Creative Exploration Practice time is your playground. It’s where you discover new patterns, experiment with grooves, and develop your unique style. Every minute spent exploring the kit brings you closer to becoming the drummer you aspire to be.
Strategies to Stay Motivated
Once you’re sitting behind the kit, just move your hands and feet and see what happens. If I’m doing this and a simple triplet idea comes out, I’ll develop the idea by asking, “What is one thing I can add, subtract, or enjoy about the rhythm going on right now?” Don’t try to go from zero to Neil Peart in the beginning.
Set Clear Goals Define what you want to achieve. Whether it’s mastering a specific song, nailing a tricky rudiment, or improving your tempo, having a target makes your practice sessions purposeful.
Break It Down Overwhelmed by a challenging piece? Break it into smaller sections and tackle them one at a time. Celebrate small wins—they build momentum.
Create a Routine Schedule consistent practice times, just like you would for a meeting or workout. Consistency transforms effort into habit.
Mix It Up Keep your sessions fresh by incorporating different elements: rudiments, grooves, improvisation, or playing along with songs. Variety prevents boredom and sharpens your versatility.
Track Your Progress Record your practice sessions. Listening back allows you to identify areas for improvement and appreciate how far you’ve come.
Inspirational Practices to Try
The 20-Minute Challenge: Dedicate 20 focused minutes to one rudiment or groove. Gradually increase speed while maintaining precision.
Jam Sessions: Play along with your favorite tracks or collaborate with other musicians to make practice feel like play.
Mindful Drumming: Focus on your breathing and posture as you play. This not only enhances your performance but also creates a meditative experience. Check out Dave Elitch or Kenny Werner’s ‘Effortless Mastery’
Remember Your “Why”
Why did you start drumming in the first place? Was it the thrill of performing, the joy of creating, or the connection with music? Reconnect with that initial spark. Watch videos of your drumming heroes, attend live performances, or even revisit your favorite drum solos to reignite your passion.