Hearing the band you love play flawlessly with all their josh and vigor, it’s natural to feel drawn to play the drums like your icon. However, learning an instrument, such as the drums, and how long it takes depends on different factors. The question, “how long does it take to learn the drums?” must have been lingering in your mind for a long time. Let’s find the answers in this article.
Understanding Your “Why” to Start Your drumming Journey
In regards to your drumming goals, think about why you want to learn drums. If you want to play a drum solo to a sold-out crowd, try out for a band, or something else… Get clear on your goal or your “why.” Goals help us to define steps towards generally becoming a better drummer. And remember, you can still have fun while chasing those goals!
Unlock Learning, Designed for You
The step is to identify how you want to learn drumming. There are many ways to play the drums. In the VAK learning model, there are three core learning styles: watching, listening, or doing. You can learn all three ways, but one of the senses is usually dominant.
V = Visual learning
A = Auditory learning
K = Kinesthetic learning
If you’re a visual learner and get the most out of pictures, outlines and representations, then try instructional books. Some learn best by listening, discussing, and repeating the lessons. Try YouTube or Zoom lessons. If you need a little more flexibility, try online learning platforms to better your skills. Prefer hands-on learning? Then there’s nothing better than in-person lessons with a pro. If you pinpoint your learning style, then you can dial in on how to become the drummer you want to be.
Whether you’re a beginner eager to grasp drumsticks for the first time or an experienced musician seeking to refine your percussive abilities, we can look at the various types of learning depending on the type of learning you prefer best.
Basic Proficiency
For those starting their musical journey, basic proficiency typically involves grasping fundamental drumming techniques, learning basic drum beats, developing a sense of rhythm, and being able to play simple beats and rhythms. It’s during this period that students build a strong foundation, enabling them to understand the mechanics of drumming, coordinate their limbs, and play along with basic songs. When you Play the drums at this stage, there are a lot of steps you grapple with.
During your initial stages of learning you can learn with the help of drum pads and apps which takes about 1-3 months for hand technique basics; and 6-12 months for solid rudiments and timing. You can also start to use electronic kits at this time.
Intermediate Level
Intermediate drummers can with ease navigate through various musical genres, experiment with different drumming styles, and participate in more advanced musical collaborations. To reach an intermediate level where you can play more complex rhythms fills, and songs, it may take around 1-2 years of consistent practice and instruction. You can start to use acoustic drum kits at this stage and it takes 6 months to a year to master basics; and 1-3 years for more advanced skills.
Advanced Level
Advanced drummers have mastered complex rhythms, intricate fills, and the ability to play with precision and finesse. They are capable of tackling challenging songs and adapting to various musical styles with ease. At this level, drummers often begin to explore more specialized techniques, such as poly-rhythms, odd time signatures, and advanced improvisation, allowing them to excel in demanding musical scenarios. You can start using hybrid drum kits at this stage and it takes 3-9 months for basic skills; and 1-2 years to get comfortable with a hybrid setup.
Expertise and Mastery
Drummers who have reached this stage possess an inexplicable command of their instrument. They can effortlessly navigate the most intricate and demanding compositions, whether in live performances, recording studios, or teaching environments. Expertise and mastery extend beyond technical prowess; they encompass a natural understanding of rhythm, an unparalleled sense of timing, and the ability to convey profound emotions through drumming.
FAQs
How long on average does it take to learn drums?
The time it takes to learn drums depends on your goals and practice consistency. Most beginners can master basic beats and fill within 1-3 months, providing a foundation in rhythm and coordination. By six months, many can play along with simple songs, keeping time with other instruments. After 1-2 years of regular practice, intermediate drummers often play more complex rhythms and may feel comfortable joining a band. Achieving advanced proficiency, enough to perform confidently across genres typically takes around three years or more of dedicated practice. This timeline assumes daily, focused practice with fundamental techniques of 30-60 minutes.
What is the fastest way to learn drums?
To learn drums quickly, start by focusing on mastering basic rhythms and coordination exercises, then gradually increase speed using a metronome to build timing and accuracy. Practising core drum patterns like basic rock beats and working on limb independence through exercises such as paradiddles can accelerate progress. Consistency is key, so aim for daily short sessions, incorporating breaks to help your brain retain what you’ve learned.
Can drums be self-taught?
Yes, learning to Play the drums can be a self-taught process. Many drummers successfully teach themselves by breaking down rhythms into manageable parts, focusing on mastering basic drum beats and techniques before combining them into full patterns. Self-taught drummers often use online tutorials, practice guides, or even apps to keep their timing and techniques on track. Starting with basic rudiments (like single strokes and double strokes) and using a metronome for consistent timing can be particularly beneficial.
Are drums hard to learn?
Learning the drums is often described as both challenging and rewarding. Many find it easier to pick up the basics of drumming compared to other instruments like guitar or piano because drums require less music theory knowledge initially. Beginners can quickly learn simple rhythms and play along with songs, especially if they start with basic rock or pop beats. However, mastering the drums is another story; advanced drumming demands significant coordination, limb independence, and muscle memory, which take consistent practice to develop. For some, the physical aspects of drumming—moving all four limbs independently and keeping a steady rhythm—can be particularly tough at first. With dedication, though, anyone can overcome these challenges and improve steadily over time.