The importance of playing along to Bands

For beginner Drum Kit players, one technique I have found incredibly useful (and I still do every day for myself) is playing along with bands whilst practising.

I feel this is important for a number of reasons:

a) It makes practising drums FUN!

For the beginner player, practising drums has the potential to be boring if you don't have a band to play with. Unlike instruments with pitch (e.g. a piano) you don't have to worry about 'wrong' notes, and once you have the basic groove (or rhythm) of the song, you can be playing along straight away. Stick with your favourite band and you instantly feel like your playing with them!

b) It helps develop musicianship

Playing 'In Time' with the music is a fundamental skill for a drummer: if you have difficulties playing in time with a band, you are likely to throw the rest of the band off as well. Playing along with music will help develop your 'inner metronome' without you even releasing your doing it, and will help you become a rock solid drummer, providing the backbone of a good band.

c) It inspires!

Playing along with a song which has a great drum track is a fantastic way of providing you with inspiration. Play along with your favourite bands and learn what makes their drummer sound like he/she does, whilst incorporating it into your own style.

All of my drum kit lessons have a strong emphasis on 'playing along'. All that's needed are some drums, your favourite music, and some headphones/speakers!