• Drummers get a lot of flack. We get blamed for tempo fluctuations, etc. Many other musicians have never even practiced with a metronome, but they'll often be the first to speak up about it. Take the time to talk to your bandmates about the importance of their contribution to timekeeping.
• Don't snub the groove! And don't put down drummers who make their living off of a strong backbeat. They are valuable commodities. Just ask the musicians who play with them. They have a feel that usually can't be surpassed.
• Chops ... it's not a dirty word! Respect the time those musicians have devoted to their vocabulary. They're often more creative players and have much to offer the world of music.
• Diplomacy is everything! If you disagree with your fellow musicians about something, bite your tongue! Keep your cool and approach the matter patiently and with great thought before you speak. Don't burn any bridges by saying the wrong things. You just might have to walk back over those bridges one day.
• Protect your ears! We can't stress this enough. Most musicians take this for granted. Buy a good set of ear plugs and start using them, especially while you practice. Drums are quite loud and ongoing exposure is detrimental.
• Think deterrents. Keep your drums hidden and/or covered in your car or van. Take extra precaution at clubs and venues. Make sure someone is always around when you're not there. Don't underestimate the thief. He's just waiting for you to let your guard down.
• It's about time. Our primary responsibility before anything else is to lay down a steady beat for the band. You should understand "groove" thoroughly and be able to lay a backbeat down like nobody's business.
• Don't be afraid to crank down your bongos when tuning them. Too often people confuse the sound a bongo should make with congas. Bongos should be able to pierce above all of the drums with your fingertips.
• Don't underestimate posture. This is one of the most overlooked facets of drumming. Sit up straight when you're playing the drums so your back is aligned properly.
• Engrave your cymbals and drums. If they ever get stolen, this will increase the likelihood of you ever seeing them again.
• For those that use a drumset rack: Take white gaffers tape and mark each section where a stand goes with a number. Put the stands in sequential order and anyone will be able to set up your kit effortlessly.
• It's RHYTHM not rythem. Come on guys, we need to know this stuff!
Let us help a little: The Reason He Yearns Tonight is His Music.
Let us help a little: The Reason He Yearns Tonight is His Music.
• Vintage drums are "old" drums. They make great collectibles and some drummers are real serious about this hobby. For a great resource, check out "Not So Modern Drummer" magazine.
• Do you get a ringing sound from your cymbal stands when you play? Fill the hollow tubing of the stands with strips of cloth.
• Clave is an instrument AND a rhythm. Claves are two wooden sticks that are played by striking the two together. There are many different types of claves (i.e. rosewood, and now even synthetics.)
