Don't Let the Lack of a Drum Kit Discourage You!

If you are just starting to learn to play the drums, and you do not have a drum set yet, you can begin by tapping your hands on a flat surface; simply improvise and utilize what is available around you. But if you can shell out about 30 dollars, get a pair of drumsticks and a practice pad.

The cost of a complete drum set can be anywhere from a few hundred to thousands of dollars, depending on the type, brand, and quality, so even if you do not have the money to invest in a complete drum set yet, you can just practice your drumming, and when you have acquired a drum set, you at least know how to play basic rhythms.

In deciding on your first pair of drum sticks, the thickness "2B" is generally recommended for beginners. You can ask your local music store about it. It is important to note that there are different kinds of sticks - they are not all created equal! Your stick choice should relate to your style of music. For instance, in rock or heavy metal music, you would need heavier sticks.

Drum practice pads are readily available at music stores and on the internet. Some practice pads even have decorative patterns, and some come in five-piece kits. You also have the option to get a practice pad stand to go along with your pad and your "throne". Your throne should ideally be padded and adjustable. For professional drummers, a regular chair just won't do, but since you are just beginning, improvising is still advisable-- just make sure that you are comfortable as you're sitting.

When your equipment is ready, you can begin with some stick exercises; a good one for beginners is "snap-ups". This exercise teaches you how to let your sticks naturally bounce off the drum. You should let your wrist bend on each stroke of your sticks. Your arms should only move with the movement of the wrist. While you play, your hand should stay parallel to the floor. It is important that you stay relaxed, and that your elbows are kept close to your body. Only the tips of the drum sticks should hit the center of the practice pad. Practice in front of a mirror so that you can see your movements and whether or not your sticks are moving straight up and down.

You can improvise and practice with whatever is the available resource, so learning how to play the drums should not be limited to those who have the instrument; besides, it is better that you know how to play an instrument even without it, than to have an instrument without knowing how to play it. Happy drumming!

About The Author Angela Nazario, is a freelance web administrator who enjoys writing articles about learning music on the side. See Music Wizard's "Music Library of Articles" at http://www.MusicWizard.com/info/ . WEB MASTERS: Use of this article requires links to remain intact.