Students and parents often ask me, how much time should I spend practicing? This article will attempt to answer that question.
Practicing is necessary if you want to learn how to play drums. Some weeks you will feel more motivated to practice and your practice time will be something you look forward to. However, other times it will be difficult to find time to practice or it may seem that your desire to practice is not as strong as it has been in the past.
Because drumming is a skill that involves muscular and neurological coordination, it's important to spend as much time each day practicing the material covered in your drum lessons. Said another way, practicing is the act of training your brain and your muscles to act together. The more time you can spend "training" the quicker you'll progress. So, on the days when you don't feel motivated to practice, I encourage you to still try and spend at least some time working on the materials you've been assigned. Even 5 minutes is preferred to no time at all.
Drumming (like many skills that are learned) becomes easier and more fun the more you are able to practice. Your improvement as a drummer is directly related to what you practice and how often. Some of my students find it helpful to make a chart so that they are able to track their practice progress throughout the week. Others find it helpful to divide their lesson assignment between the days until their next lesson. I even know of one student who sets a timer to ensure he puts in his allotted practice time each day. I encourage you to find or use any tools that will help you develop and become consistent with your practice regime.
Consistent and correct repetition is key when learning any new skill, including drumming. The more consistent you are in setting aside time each day to work on your drumming (whether you feel like it or not) the quicker you'll reach your drumming goals. And by spending the necessary time and energy to make sure you are playing your lesson assignment correctly, the more likely you'll be able to progress further at your next lesson.
I encourage you to keep up your work, stay focused on your goals, and to enjoy your journey as you become the drummer you wish to be. At times, learning how to play drums can be hard work, but if you persist with your practicing and stay determined, you will succeed in accomplishing your goals.
