Drum Tips             
 
 
 
 
 
 

*1.  Always start out slow and gradually get faster. Most drummers want to start out fast because they think they'll get really good. This isn't true. If you start out fast, you will most likely be sloppy and have a hard time keeping a steady beat.

*2.  When you're playing the bass drum for the first time, start out with quarter notes so it is easier to keep a steady beat. After you have mastered that, move into more complex beats.

*3.  I recommend drumsticks with nylon tips. They do not damage the drum head as much, and they have a softer sound. Also, if you hit the rims of drum heads and the edge of symbols, it wears the drumsticks down and puts dents in them. Try to avoid doing this.

*4.  Cymbals usually have a protective layer over them to keep them from rusting. Certain cymbal cleaners will take off this layer, leaving the cymbal open to rust. I recommend that you use a zildjian cymbal cleaner, or another type of cymbal brand.

*5.  When you place your drum set in a new area, be sure to put mat or carpeting under it so it won't slide while you are playing. Also, remember that the bass pedal puts marks in the carpet, and scratches on hardwood floors.

*6.  A good tip on getting better is listening to the different drum beats in music. It's a good idea to buy a pair of big, quality headphones so you can hear music and follow along with it while you are playing.

*7.  It's important to set up your drum set the way that it fits you. If you are a right-handed drummer, set your drum set up so you hit the hi-hat with your right hand. If you area left-handed drummer, set your drum set up backwards so you hit the hi-hat with your left hand. If you are a left-handed drummer, don't try to set your drum set up so you can be like a right-handed drummer.