About Finding Musical Strength In Taking A Break

Taking a break drumming musical strength

It’s been quite silent on this blog drumming lately.

I haven’t published a post in months.

No new tips or drums sheet music.

Obviously, FOMO is nothing I’m worried about.

But why the break?

Basically, I needed time to think.

It was time for me to get my shit together.

(Again.)

However, I don’t regret taking a break.

Simply because

Breaks can be outstandingly powerful.

The same applies to drumming.

Less Is More? True That (Sometimes)!

Many drummers fall into the trap of overplaying.

They

  • add more,
  • and more and
  • just some more notes.

No doubt, it’s great fun to play a lot!

On the other hand, just adding more can be too much sometimes.

More can be exhausting:

For the listeners, just like the players.

May I ask you a little question?

When Was The Last Time You Played Less Instead Of More?

Think about it.

If you’re somewhat like me, you might have a hard time remembering.

Not because we can’t remember.

But because breaks are a superb way to spice-up our drumming.

Here’s a little exercise for you:

  • Step 1: Think of a beat or drum fill you’d like to play right now.
  • Step 2: Play this rhythm just like you’re used to playing it.
  • Step 3: Take away notes. Break up the beat!

Here’s an example of a basic groove:

adding breaks to drum beats

That’s a lovely drum beat, right?

Agreed.

But what happens if you throw in a little break?

Let’s see:

I simply modified the beat by adding a rest.

Also, I moved the kick to the next counting time. (from 3 to 3 +)

These small changes give the groove a whole new feeling.

You could also try this version:

creative drum beats with a break examples
  • In the first bar, I just replaced the last two notes with a quarter note rest.
  • Then, I decided to add more again, a flam.

Doesn’t this sound powerful to you?

To me, it really does.

These examples prove it:

You really don’t have to always play more to sound creative on the drums.

Instead, playing less is equally exciting.

Don’t Be Afraid To Take That Break

Rests are like the breath of music.

That’s why musical strength has nothing to do with being the loudest.

It’s about balance.

And there’s no sound without silence.

All the best to you.

Manu

Non-Exhausting Marketing & Networking Tips For The Introvert Drummer

Marketing tips for introvert drummers

Being an introvert drummer can be tough.

Especially if you want to market yourself, or build up your network in the music industry.

You’re not only introverted, but also shy?

Things might get even more challenging for you.

However, this doesn’t have to be the case.

In fact, being introverted and/or shy as a drummer is not a problem.

It’s just a part of your personality.

On the other hand, I know the many hardships of being an introverted drummer.

That’s because I’m introverted as well.

How has this affected my drumming career?

Well …

Continue reading “Non-Exhausting Marketing & Networking Tips For The Introvert Drummer”

I’ve Been Playing The Drums For More Than 15 Years: Here’s What I Learned

Playing the drums for over 15 years

I’ve been playing the drums since I was a teenager.

Being a 31-year-old woman now, I’m still in love with this instrument.

When I was younger, I also dreamt of being a drum teacher.

Helping others create a more joyful life thanks to the power of music:

This is my motivation to this day on.

Drumming is love, so it’s always a good time to share it.

I also feel outstandingly blessed to say:

In 2023, I’ve been teaching drums (and other instruments like the cajon) for 10 years.

Therefore, it might be the right time to share some of my most important learnings with you.

With that said:

I’ve got over 15 years of drumming under my belt.

What did I learn during this time?

Continue reading “I’ve Been Playing The Drums For More Than 15 Years: Here’s What I Learned”

Why Drumming Is So Much Fun, You Ask?

Reasons why drumming is fun

Why drumming is so much fun?

There are various great reasons for learning to play the drums.

Which ones, you ask?

I’m going to share some personal thoughts on this topic.

Maybe you want to do so as well?

Feel free to comment why drumming is so much fun for you. 🙂

Continue reading “Why Drumming Is So Much Fun, You Ask?”

5 Time-Savers For Stressed Out Drummers

Time-savers for drummers tips

The best time-savers for stressed drummers?

Share.

This.

Information!

Sure, I will. 🙂

Each tip in this drumming guide is tried and tested.

Feel free to give your top picks a try as well.

Oh, and before I forget:

I’m talking about the negative version of stress in this drumming guide.

Continue reading “5 Time-Savers For Stressed Out Drummers”

Play The Drums Barefoot? Here’s Why I Prefer Shoes

Play the drums barefoot

Some play the drums barefoot.

Other drummers wear socks.

Or shoes.

What about you?

How do you drum?

I used to go for socks when I started out as a female drummer.

However, I changed to drumming with shoes some time ago.

But what is actually better?

Play the drums barefoot, with shoes or maybe socks?

Continue reading “Play The Drums Barefoot? Here’s Why I Prefer Shoes”

3 Rules Of How To Become A Successful Drummer

Tips how to become a successful drummer

How can you become a successful drummer?

That’s a great question.

In today’s article, we’re going to answer it.

I’m sharing 3 rules helping you crack this goal.

Please notice:

This article is not for you when you’re searching for tips and hacks to sharpen your drumming skills.

It’s about becoming a successful drummer in terms of a way of life.

Also, they are key elements for making a proper living by drumming and beyond.

Continue reading “3 Rules Of How To Become A Successful Drummer”