The drums are an essential element in popular music ensembles both small and large. The compelling nature of rhythm and the sheer physicality of drumming make it both immeasurably fun and endlessly challenging.

The drummer brings an infectious energy to Rock music and complex and sophisticated rhythms and drumming styles are at the heart of Jazz music’s expressive intensity and subtle feel. Rhythmic instruction also paves the way for students to play the many types of orchestral percussion instruments, whose vibrant and varied tone colours add excitement and drama to Classical music.

Rhythm is the most universal aspect of music and instruments of the percussion family are to be found in virtually all the varied musics throughout the world. Percussion instruments find their way into western music from Africa and the Far East, cultures where drums, gongs and melodic percussion have always been a central part of the musical experience. Learning to play percussion instruments can help to open a student’s mind and ears to the awesome variety of musical expression across the globe.

Instruction in the drums starts with the basics. In the early stages students learn how to hold a pair of drumsticks and how to play drum rolls and basic drum rudiments (rhythm exercises for coordinating the two hands playing together). Students gain experience playing on a drumset where all four limbs have to work together. The basics of reading rhythm are introduced through handouts specifically geared to the student’s knowledge and experience.

As students progress they work on more complex rhythmic patterns and undertake a more thorough study of drum rudiments in order to develop greater independence of two hands and two feet. Two excellent books are introduced when the time is right: Stick Control by George Stone continues the focus on the two hands working together, and Syncopation For The Modern Drummer by Ted Reed introduces Jazz drumming and accents while further developing reading skills.

While music theory relating to notes and harmony is not directly relevant for drum students, instruction in general music theory is available to any students who are interested. Those applying for high school or university music programs are instructed in all facets of music theory necessary for a successful application using the xylophone to learn scales, chord structure and other theoretical elements.

Jazz, Rock, Funk and Reggae styles are explored along with the rich and diverse rhythms of Latin and South America that have become so important in North American musical style.

Students are always encouraged to let us know what they are interested in and we strive to help them to achieve their own aspirations, whether it is to learn a specific piece of music or to gain acquaintance with a particular musical genre.

In the early stages of drum instruction it is not necessary to have a drumset for practicing. A practice pad is sufficient. This is a small and inexpensive pad that can sit on a table top, designed to have a similar bounce and feel to a real drum head when it is struck. A practice pad and a pair of drumsticks is all you need to get started on drum lessons.

As students progress a basic drumset will become necessary. This would consist of a snare drum, a bass drum and a hi-hat. When it becomes necessary to have a drumset we can give advice on choosing drum heads, drumsticks and cymbals. Tuning of the drums and general drumset maintenance are all part of drum lessons. An electronic drumset is also a possibility. While electronic drums lack the sensitivity of real drums they do have the advantage of being more compact and they can be played with headphones if necessary.