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Undoubtedly, many drummers (and other musicians) struggle to find time to practice amidst their busy schedules. Between rehearsals, meetings, performances, exercise, eating right, family commitments, and travel, it can be a daunting task. This challenge isn’t exclusive to beginners—some of our greatest players face the same issue. So, what are we to do?
The answer doesn’t lie in quitting our jobs or giving up hobbies. Nor is it found in purchasing new drumsticks or the latest technique DVD. The solution lies in how we practice—and more importantly, how we think about practice.
Here are three strategies to maximize your precious practice time:
PRACTICE ONLY ONE THING
While this may sound boring and repetitive, focusing on one thing can lead to far greater results in much less time. Take, for example, the first exercise in George Lawrence Stone’s Stick Control: RLRLRLRL. If you only have 15 minutes to practice, spend an entire week on this one exercise (15 minutes x 7 days = 105 minutes). In the following week, move on to the next exercise, and so on. This focused practice helps you master a task and improves your ability to stay concentrated. Imagine how proficient you will become at single-stroke rolls! Most importantly, stay on track—don’t let yourself drift into playing Bonham-style triplets. You’ll be amazed at the benefits of this level of concentration.
DONE WITH STICK CONTROL? NOW USE YOUR FEET
This is about making the most of what you already know. After finishing my Bachelor of Music, I was convinced I would never need another music book again—and I still stand by this idea. Try coming up with new ways to practice what you’ve already learned. After reading through Ted Reed’s Syncopation, for example, try playing the snare drum line with your high-hat foot. Once, I told one of my professors that I was done with the Syncopation book. She responded, “Good. Now set up your drum kit for a left-handed player and read the book as a left-handed player.” That moment forever changed the way I approached practice.
TRY LEARNING WHAT YOU DON’T DO
Shouldn’t I be practicing what I usually perform? Yes, absolutely. But taking time to learn something different, or something you don’t normally do, helps you grow as a musician. It makes you a better player, listener, and writer. If metal is your go-to style, try learning a traditional samba. And if you usually play straight-ahead jazz, try learning orchestral percussion. The more well-rounded you become, the better musician you’ll be.
Rob Phillips is a writer, drummer, and counselor from Vancouver, BC.
DRUM GEEK 