Drummer Tips

How To To Make Your Drumming Life Easier

A positive attitude makes all the difference in musician to musician relationships.

Practice everyday to keep loose - even short sessions are better than none.

Always arrive at the gig earlier than you're supposed to.

Carry a spare snare head and snare string, bass drum head, and pedal beater.

Learn your drum parts completely before rehearsal.

Avoid playing or tuning between songs which is really amateurish.

Never argue with band members on stage.

Getting drunk and playing drums at a gig is NOT the cool thing to do. Having a friend or cab drive you home after getting drunk at the gig IS the cool thing to do.

Keep the breaks between shows the exact time agreed upon.

Have plenty of drumsticks, especially if you play loud.

Use a personal monitor that is easy to hear and portable to set up.

Compliment band members for playing well.

Refrain from mentioning band members mistakes.

Listen carefully to the other musicians and play to compliment them.

A bass drum mic is essential in most band situations, except very low volume playing and possibly rehearsals.

Wear very comfortable bass drum pedal friendly shoes when possible.

Bring a small "pocket practice pad" and warm before taking the stage.

A drum gear checklist is a good idea if you break your equipment down into smaller pieces.

If you always transport your own drums consider quality drum bags like Beato or Humes and Berg instead of hard cases.

A heavy duty baseball bat bag can be a very light and affordable drum hardware bag.

Keep your cymbal hole protective sleeve and washers in top shape to prevent cymbal damage.

Look sharp (as Joe Jackson would say) for the gig or show.

Remember your brushes, mallets, and breath mints - just in case.

Keep a small powerful fan in your trunk just in case your drumming gets too HOT! (sorry, couldn't resist)

The small things really add up, and can make or break various situations. Try to be aware of the many details that are the difference between successful drummers and frustrated ones.