BRETT’s DRUMMING TIPS – “HABITS”
A word from Mr. Brett:
As your instructor, teacher and friend, I have your best interests in mind. I give advice to assist you in developing the skills and tools required for a well-rounded musical development. I understand what you need to be successful. 
Unfortunately, at times, some students become preoccupied with learning “Impressive Patterns or Solos” to the point that they neglect to practice the actual lesson. Remember, these “Impressive Patterns/ Solos” that are here today and gone tomorrow, will do you absolutely no good, unless you have taken the time and effort to develop the tools essential to excellent drumming technique. Whether you are beginning an entry level of instruction, intermediate level, or advanced level, my goal is to provide instruction that will help you develop as a “well-rounded” better performer. Below are a few “HABIT” tips to assist you as a drummer, enjoy!!
- DAILY SESSION HABIT – The most effective way of developing long-lasting skills and expanding your techniques is through daily sessions. “Practice marathons” and “drum bursts” (15 min sessions on your set) in addition to your drum lessons will go a long way in getting you the results you desire. Remember, when walking by your drum set. Stop, sit down, and practice for 5 – 15 minutes. Also, don’t forget the other styles you’ve worked on in the past. Go back to these styles, pull out your sheets and include them when you practice.
- GAME HABIT – Playing repetitive “hand” or “foot-technique” exercises or reading-skills exercises are enjoyable when you understand they are guaranteed (when practiced correctly) to improve you performance. First of all, make a sort of game out of the whole idea, by making everything you play, including “hand-technique” and reading exercises, sound as musical as possible by utilizing dynamics, articulation, and musicality to its highest level. Practice as if you are preparing for a performance, or playing in front of a live audience.
- CHALLENGE HABIT – Once you have encountered a “challenge” (Ex. Dynamics, executing a phrase at the suggested tempo, articulation of a particular rhythm, phrasing etc.) Simply divide this “challenging” section of the music into smaller musical phrases and begin working on improving these “challenge” sections separately. Slow down the tempo and repeat theses sections until you can play them both relaxed & “naturally”. Then, follow this habit by putting these “extracted phrases” back into context, in order to facilitate “musical-continuity”. Ultimately everything you perform will be relaxed and “natural” both to you and your audience.
- PARENTAL HABIT – Let me take this opportunity to encourage you to get involved with your younger children. They really need your help and guidance to motivate them in developing the “Habit of Practicing”… which mentioned above is one of the keys to their success!
- NETWORKING HABIT – There’s an old saying; “Out of sight, out of mind”. Well, this is one of the truest things ever written and it so applies to the music business and drums as well. If you want to work, you need to be seen playing your drums, go out to the venues, jam sessions, put on a small workshop, get to know the employees of the local music stores, visit clubs where drummers are needed, ask, ask, ask! The goal is to “BE SEEN”! You need to engage in conversation with the guys who book gigs and potential employers. Let them know that you’re qualified.
- For younger players still in school; if you want that specific chair or jazz band seat you have to work hard, yes. But also make sure that you’re on a first name basis with the bandleader, drum captain, and any private instructors or helpers, because they will often be assisting with the auditioning process.
Bonus Tip – Top 5 Drummer Networking Mistakes:
- Not acting professional enough
- Not being prepared
- Not letting them know in some way that you’re qualified for the job
- Not following up on potential leads or opportunities
- Not having business cards (pro players)
- ADVICE HABIT– Always, consistently, without fail, reach out to me when you have questions! So many students feel their question is not worth bothering me over. I think the opposite, EVERY question is important!! Ask me please… Email me at brett@drummersrule.net or for that matter pick up the phone and simply Call or Text me at 602-769-2075. It’s that simple!!!
Following the above advice will definitely help you succeed, and after all, that’s what it’s all about. Let me now your comments and questions. Enjoy your week!
Mr. Brett
Brett Frederickson – DrummersRule! Drum Lessons
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