Practicing
Here are some things to consider when practicing anything new.
a) Start slowly, whether it be a new rudiment, a new beat or reading.
Playing slow gives us a chance to check our technique and gives our hands/feet
a chance to "memorize" the pattern. Some things will come relatively quickly, while others
take much more time and patience.
b) Counting out loud is a MUST! It is one of the most difficult things to do in the beginning,
but is well worth the time spent learning this skill.
c) Learn new things at different volume levels...I've found that if you can play a pattern softly, it's that much easier to play the same pattern at a louder volume.
d) Practice SMART, if you sit down at your pad/kit and your not "tuned in" for practice. Don't practice...come back when you're ready. If you spend your time "dinkin' around," that's time wasted. When you've finished your practice time and you can play something that you couldn't when you first sat down...that is progress, however small.
e) This ones a no-brainer, when practicing at even an tempo...USE A METRONOME!
Play at slow, medium and fast tempos. This is essential for beginners and the ONLY exception is when first learning a new pattern or piece.
Equipment
Content coming soon...
Playing in a Band
First? Seek out other players with common musical interests and ability. If you find people that like the same type of music, chances are the band will come together sooner.
Jam with everyone you can at least once...it's a great way to meet other players.
Show up early for EVERYTHING...the adage, "If your on time, your late" certainly applies
here...give yourself time to set-up so you can start on time. This also show respect for other peoples time, i.e. they're not having to wait for you.
Work on the tunes you plan to play on your own ahead of time, apart from the band...I cannot stress this enough. Be prepared for rehearsal.
Show courtesy and respect for everyone in your musical environment, especially the
musicians you're playing with.
Record yourself and the band at every rehearsal if possible. Nowadays, even small digital recorders have limiters built in to control the volume and you'll get an idea of what you REALLY sound like.