Take my advice and learn the essentials first. I know it is fun to just bang around on a drum kit, but that will only get you so far and believe me, it will lead to bad habits.
So here are four rules you can follow. It is my collection of tips for those who want to learn how to play the drums. If you are a beginner, use these tips as a starting point to learn to drum. If you are an old-timer, it never hurts to get back to the basics.
1. Learn to read music
I have been playing the drums for more than thirty years, and I am glad I started the right way, by learning how to read music. To be proficient in your playing, as in all things, you must understand the basics. Learning to read drum music is not hard at all. All it is going to take is a little bit of time and energy. If you plan on being a serious drummer, and maybe even going on to play with a group, understanding music is a must. Plus it gives you a great foundation from which to start.
2. Learn the rudiments of drumming
There are at over forty drum rudiments that great drummers can perform with ease and at least 26 that I consider essential. Common rudiments include the rolls, paradiddles and flams. Understanding and knowing how to play these basic rudiments is a must any serious drummer.
These common patterns are invaluable and are always a part of any good drummer's arsenal. You must learn these basic patterns because all drumming will include these patterns and their variations. Learn them.
3. You have to practice
The only way to be good at anything is to practice. Simple but true, if you want to be the best then that means putting in the time. Make your practice sessions productive and fun. A great way to start is by working on your rudiments. Sound familiar?
The paradiddle is a great one to start with. Keep your practice sessions short, about 45 minutes. You do not want to burn yourself out by trying to do too much. Pay close attention to your hand technique and the way you are gripping your sticks.
I was taught traditional stick grip, but I now prefer matched stick. Whatever your preference, learn it and practice until it is automatic.
4. Learn your favourite beats
This is one way to have fun while learning because every drummer has a favourite beat. Select a favourite beat and play it over and over until you have it down. Getting that certain beat down is fun and will give you a sense of accomplishment as well.
Engrain every beat in your head. Practice and practice some more, until you reach the level where it just becomes automatic.
Repetition is the mother of skill so repeat often. You will soon build mind and muscle memory and find yourself drumming around your kit with ease and precision.
To learn how to play the drums well, you should start at the beginning by learning drum music and drum rudiments. Find your favourite beats and incorporate them into your practice sessions to make things more fun and enjoyable.
Start with a good foundation and build on it.
Who does not love the drums? Keep drumming.