Like most other people at this time, you’re probably stuck at home and getting a little stir-crazy. But if you have at least a pair of sticks and a practice pad, you can still take drum lessons online.
Throughout the past several weeks, I have successfully transitioned to giving online drum lessons using the power of the Internet. By meeting with students through Zoom and Skype, I am able to continue providing high-quality drum lessons. But drum lessons online are a little bit different than meeting in person. So let’s discuss what to expect from taking drum lessons online.
From the Instructor’s End
I am equipped with an electronic drum set and a computer with a webcam, allowing students to clearly hear and see everything I demonstrate. I can see and hear students the same way, though it’s not entirely necessary for students to plug their drum sets into a computer (the technology gets a little more involved. More on that topic another time…).
From the Student’s End
Online drum lessons are guided by the student’s musical goals and interests, just like with in-person lessons. But students may find themselves limited by the gear they have at home. While many of our students have their own electronic or acoustic drum set, some possess just a pad and sticks. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to remain productive regardless of gear.
Students with sticks and a practice pad can use online drum lessons to really strengthen fundamentals such as technique, coordination, control, and speed, which will all directly translate to drum set playing. Shifting focus to the fundamentals may expose weaknesses that might not be as obvious while playing on a kit. Using this time to revisit and build upon the basics will also boost your confidence once you’re behind a drum set again.
While online drum lessons can’t completely replace the experience of having an instructor get up close and put your playing under a microscope, they still offer personalized materials and live feedback, just at a healthy distance (pun absolutely intended).
Ready to try it out for yourself? Schedule an online drum lesson with me!
Covid Lockdown Jams: Here is my tribute to the late, great Frank Zappa and Terry Bozzio(for being the first victim to have to perform this). This is the notoriously difficult Black Page Drum solo. Frank was a genius. My only regret is not having my real drums here to play on, but that will be soon enough! Cheers!!