When it comes to learning drums, practice isn’t just important—it’s everything. But as drum teachers who work with beginners of all ages, we know that figuring out how to practice can feel like its own challenge. These simple but powerful drum practice tips for beginners will help you level up faster and have way more fun doing it.
1. Break It Down—Then Build It Back Up
You don’t have to play an entire groove perfectly the first time. In fact, you shouldn’t.
Here’s what we recommend:
- Start with just the hands—master the sticking.
- Add in feet only when the hands feel natural.
- Practice each layer slowly, then put them together.
Think of it like building a house—strong foundations come first.
2. Use a Practice Pad (Even If You Have a Kit)
Practice pads are your secret weapon. They let you focus on hand technique and timing without the distraction (or noise) of a full kit.
Bonus: They’re perfect for warm-ups or traveling. Pair your pad with a metronome app like Soundbrenner to lock in that timing.
3. Short, Frequent Practice Wins Every Time
We’d rather see you practice for 15 minutes a day than 2 hours once a week.
Try this 15-minute daily structure:
- 5 minutes: Stick control & warm-up
- 5 minutes: Coordination exercise or new groove
- 5 minutes: Song play-along or freestyle
Keep it short and sweet, and you’ll look forward to sitting down at the kit.
4. Play With Songs You Love
Practicing to a favorite song is motivating and educational. Start simple—pick a tune with a steady beat (AC/DC or Billie Eilish are both great choices).
We also dive deeper into this idea in our post on how music lessons are for playing, not just learning.
FAQ
Q: Do I need a drum kit to start learning?
A: Not at all. A practice pad and sticks are perfect for building foundational skills before moving to a full kit.
Q: How often should beginners practice drums?
A: Aim for at least 4–5 short sessions a week. Consistency is more important than duration.
Q: Should I use a metronome when practicing?
A: Yes! It builds timing, control, and discipline from the start.
