How To Learn Percussion

Percussion has come a long way since its official introduction in 6000 B.C.E. Among many cultures, the drum was a way to express feelings during festivals, spiritual ceremonies and other celebrations. Men, women and children would chant or sing and dance to the rhythm.

Actually, anything can produce a percussion sound. Percussion is basically striking one object with another. How many hours you probably spent wailing on your mother’s pots and pans in the kitchen while she was preparing dinner, it may have sounded like heaven to you but was a sound of a different nature to your mother. Of course, seriously learning to play is a little more complex.

Reading Music

First and foremost you want to learn to read music. There are a lot of people who learn by ear and you maybe one of them. For instance, what if you’re in an audition with other musicians and you are required to read several musical notations simultaneously to get a certain sound of percussion? Think of the advantage you can have over others who don’t know how to read music. If you don’t know how to read music, by all means learn!

The Selection of Where to Play

Next, you need to take into consideration your surroundings, i.e. the sounding like heaven to you but the sound of torture for your neighbors. However, there are basics—fundamentals’ that you can learn without banging right away on your drum set.

Finding a Good Teacher

With all the advances in technology with video, and the Internet, why bother to find an instructor? Nothing can replace the insight and wisdom a real teacher can give. any mistakes you make while playing they can be right there to give you positive feedback and the constructive criticism you need to succeed. Also, a reputable teacher can tell you if you have what it takes to be a successful percussionist or if you are wasting your time.

Your Frame of Mind

If you have ever aspired to learn the drums it can be a very arduous journey. How do you want to approach your lessons? Are you learning for recreational purposes, for fulfillment, or a serious musical career? Whatever your reasons, stay focused and try to stick with it. Remember, you only get out of it only what you put into it. If you can easily get bored then maybe you need to reconsider.

Instruments

You don’t need a full blown drum set to start off with. Some use what is called a drum pad and simple drum sticks. They are less expensive and you can practice quietly.

Determination and Dedication

If you choose to play percussion as a hobby or seriously, it will pay off in the end. You will have learned discipline, determination, and dedication!