Throughout our lives, we are influenced by the music we hear (and see). Music of the world is as diverse as the many cultures of its people. Typically with age and experience, we broaden and refine our musical tastes. We may incorporate many genres of music into our musical make-up.

The sum of these influences becomes our musical scope. Ultimately we define our individual style. We learn as individuals. We attain and (exhibit) levels of skill according to our age and individual abilities. Students differing in age will learn and progress to differing degrees. Each student is unique as to musical influence and talents they may possess. As the instructor, I adapt my method of teaching to accommodate each student.

The key to becoming a GOOD DRUMMER is a disciplined practice routine. (As is true of any endeavor, we know that practice makes perfect!) A beginning student must be patient. Try a SLOWER approach. Focus on playing a steady beat. Try playing at moderate tempos and use shorter strokes. Be more concerned with proper technique - speed comes later!

First you must become SOLID behind that drum kit. You must learn to feel where the (ONE) is. You are the Time Keeper, you are the Groove Master. It is essential for the drummer to keep solid time (METER). You will DEVELOP your speed and you will LEARN to play intricately. You will naturally develop your own style. It takes patience; it takes practice. It takes years to become an accomplished player. Apply yourself and strive for TECHNIQUE and DISCIPLINE. PRACTICE! PRACTICE! PRACTICE!l

This next topic implies a certain level of skill as a drummer and relates to individual musicianship and musicianship as a whole. It can apply to writing or performing original songs/music as well as playing covers.

Both the bass and drums make up the rhythm section. Together they lay down the GROOVE and provide the BACKBONE of the music. The entire band, however, relies upon the DRUMMER to hold it all together. If the drummer slows down or speeds up, this of course is very detrimental to the rest of the band. It is also bad form if the drummer plays TOO BUSY!

A good musical ear is very important. Listen to what the other musicians are playing. Listen to the VOCALS. Allow yourself to hear the SPACE in the music. Listen for structure. Play both RHYTHMICALLY and MELODICALLY. Play to EMBODY all else going on.

It is very important for each musician to play dynamically - this is CRITICAL to how the band will sound overall. It is an equally important part of the drummer's job to be ON TOP of the dynamics (that is to say, if/when the drummer initiates the dynamics, the rest of the group will play with the same intensity). The reverse is also true for the drummer to follow any such cues; as to lay back, play heavy or when a change is coming up!

The composition or structure of music/songs usually includes: intro; verses; chorus; bridge; solos; out. These parts certainly differ and may incorporate dynamics or changes such as soft; quiet; heavy; loud; build; fade...). There could also be notation, tempo, or time signature changes. There is lots going on musically. Identify it - be a musically conscious player.

Watch your STAGE VOLUME and don't BURY the vocals. It is of utmost importance the vocals cut THROUGH the mix (INTELLIGIBLY). Hopefully you have a good sound technician at the console; however the band has equal responsibility to give this person something decent to work with! As musicians you will communicate better on stage and at rehearsal. Everyone will play much more tightly together and the band will sound its best.