Beginner's guide to playing drums by professionals

Written by: drummer & composer, Josh Roberts

Our “How to play drums: a guide for beginners (by professional drummers)” is a new series filled with essential tips and advice from musicians who live and breathe drumming.

Our goal is for this series to inspire you to pick up those drumsticks and start drumming. New York-based Josh Roberts is a passionate drummer, composer, and charismatic influencer. It is our honor to have him present the first segment of our series. Let’s get started!

Lean in and have fun

"My top tip for drumming is to lean in and HAVE FUN! Drums are the only instrument you can hit and play it correctly. So have fun and joy in making rhythm with your whole body. Whether you're looking at it as a hobby or a career, always have fun!"

Can everyone play drums?

"Absolutely! Anyone can learn drums!"

It doesn't matter how old or able-bodied you are; there are even drum kits adapted for individuals who require more support. Josh first learned with pencils on pots and pans, and so can you!

People often believe that rhythm must be innate when starting to learn drums. However, just like any other instrument, with enough practice and discipline, you can learn to play drums!

At what age should you start playing drums?

The earlier and longer you spend mastering an instrument, the better!

"I would suggest as early as possible. Even as early as five years old, one can learn the basics of rhythm, and you don't even need a drum set."

What are some common mistakes for beginners to avoid?

Be patient. Some elements of learning drums happen quickly, while others require patience and slow practice. Drums can provide quick gratification, but there is also a long learning curve to reach a proficient level.

How often should I practice drums?

Practice as often as you can and want. You control your progress; it’s a matter of hard work.

"3 sessions of 30 minutes each for new students a week"

Which song should I first learn?

Work on classics with beats that you enjoy! Josh mentions that Billie Jean has a great pulse. Playing along to it will deepen your sense of time and groove, and it's fun! He also suggests We Will Rock You, I Love Rock and Roll, and Take the A-Train.

Should I play any other instrument?

The short answer is yes!

Learning any other instrument will deepen your musicality. More important than learning technique is understanding music theory and ear training. The piano is a fantastic instrument to start with because it's rhythmic and visually laid out.

What apps do you recommend?

"As far as apps go, I pretty much use the Metronome App by Soundbrenner for a metronome while I practice. Peter Erskine, an L.A. drummer, created two Play-Along apps that I used to use as well."

How do I protect my hearing?

Hearing protection is vital. Josh Roberts mentions that he hasn't always been great at protecting his ears but acknowledges its importance.

"I always like to use some type of headphones while practicing, which helps with hearing protection but also allows me to hear an audible metronome or play music. I suggest Vic Firth's sound isolation headphones or Etymotic in-ear earplugs."

You can also use Soundbrenner technology for vibrations with just earplugs and do not need headphones!

About Josh Roberts

Living a musician's dream in New York City is drummer Joshua Roberts. He started a bi-weekly Harlem Jazz session in New York City, where Jazz and Broadway leaders collaborate with other musicians. Besides being an adjunct instructor at New York University, he also tours nationally with Recording Artists Brad & Rebekah and tours internationally with Monika Herzig and his group.

Check out Josh's channels

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