Drum Lessons Approach
My approach to drum lessons is flexible and can take many directions depending on my students desires and learning style. To develop a strong foundation I want my students to understand the importance of technical development. Our movement and physical approach to the drums effects not only the sound produced but also technical ability. Likewise, I want my students to be able to analyze music both through musical notation and the learn-by-ear approach. Along with all that is stylistic development which includes songs my students know and like along with exploration of the many musical styles from around the world.
Technique
Learning correct technique is primary and ongoing. Whether through listening to songs or observing myself or other drummers play, students often ask “how do I do that?”. It is this ongoing question which propels development of one’s technique. Frequently I will draw students attention to the look and feel of their movement, having them pay close attention to one or more limbs and the sound being produced. Next, we would closely compare how I’m moving and the sound I’m producing. Having the student mirror back what they see and hear, refining their movement, helps the student to stay focused on their technique and the resulting sound. This essential habit of attention to technique will allow for self-learning into the future.
Reading and Analysis
Another of my main goals when teaching is to help my students develop strong analytical skills as it relates to understanding musical notation. I want my students to be as comfortable reading rhythmic notation as they are reading the English language, so they can quickly read and comprehend a rhythmic phrase as they can an entire sentence. If I can lead my students to this level of understanding of notation then they will be that much more capable of self learning via the many great drum instruction books available.
Along with strong reading skills I want my students to be able to learn-by-ear. Essential to the understanding of both reading and hearing rhythmic phrases is the ability to count and to subdivide the count. Counting out loud is fundamental to connecting the mind and the body, to bringing awareness of the structure of a rhythmic or musical phrase; Counting provides a road map to what we are hearing or reading. If my students can confidently count and subdivide then they can successfully translate what they hear, or read, to what they play.
Play Along and Performance
Alongside establishing the above mentioned aspects is for me to discover and nurture the musical interests of the student by finding out what music they like. Some students are open to just about anything while others have very particular tastes in music and I adjust the lessons for that. Beginning with easily accessible songs and progressing to more demanding ones I am able to lead my students through varying styles and the technical demands required. Once my student has gained good control of a song we make a video performance of the song, I’ve found that once a student gets a song or two under their belt, the fire has been lit; Success has been tasted and the learning accelerates.
Outline Of Drum Lessons Approach
This list includes some of the aspects of the above discussed approach to drum lessons. This list grows longer the longer I teach as it is obvious to me that while I’m teaching my students drums, my students are showing me how to teach; their continued interest, development and success points the way!
Technique
Holding the sticks (Grip)
How and when to use the wrists, fingers and arms.
The how of dynamics (range of volume)
Methods of movement across the drums
Incorporating the feet with the hands
Using the natural rebound of the drums and cymbals
Rudiments (relatively small patterns which form the foundation for more extended and complex drum patterns) and their application on the drum set
Reading
Develop an understanding of rhythmic notation whether for a single drum or a complete drum set.
Realize the importance of counting and subdividing as a tool for problem solving and self learning.
Playing Duets to sustain concentration while another drummer is playing an accompanying part
Play-Along
Reading and analyzing drum charts
Develop the ability to learn by ear
Develop the ability to listen closely to the music while playing their part
Notice and realize how the drums work with and complement the other instruments in a song
Develop self control in order to support the song
Broaden musical horizons through exposure to different styles
Drum Lesson Material & Drum Study Publications
Alfred’s Snare Method Book 1 is recommended to develop reading and rudimental skills on the snare drum
Snare Drum Duets are used to supplement reading and develop concentration
Syncopation For The Modern Drummer
Riddim: Claves of African Origin
RSL Awards Rockschool is a graded system for play-along with which I’ve had much success motivating students
Drummate is an online resource for play-along that many students enjoy
Video Performance
On a regular basis I make videos of the student’s performance of a play-along song, snare drum solo or drum set solo. This gives the student a definite goal and a reason to refine their part.
Band Coaching
I always encourage my students to form a group with their musical peers and I offer coaching to those who want it.