Drummer Connection Forum

Home Forum General Category General Discussion

Frustrationville

Julian Gold - Tue, 07/06/2010 - 13:47 | 2,769 views

Hi all

I've been playing about 5 years now. Always wanted to drum since I was 10. My parents were less than enthused, and I never really had a chance while I lived at home. When I went to university I was too broke and couldn't drive so owning a kit was still out the question. Wasn't until I was 40, owned a house and had a bit of cash that I finally got round to fulfilling my ambition of 30 years.

I've practiced a bit most days, used the internet for research, had lessons with a local teacher, bought and read books, tapped away on a practice pad to the annoyance of my family, I've played with a band (was ok actually, kept things straight well enough) but it was a bit of a struggle. But now the frustration is starting to get to me. My rudiments are poor, can't get double-stroke together despite hours and hours of trying, foot technique is similarly lacking. My teacher was ok but only went so far and then kind of tailed off, and now I'm starting to get disillusioned at my lack of progress.

Has anyone got some advice as to how to dig oneself out such a hole motivationally or technically?

Drummer Comments (2)

[+] Add Comment

Titch Davidson Says Re: Frustrationville

Submitted On: Sunday, Jul 11, 2010 - 6:01 AM

Hi Julian,

All i can say is dig deep mate. I have been there, it WILL all come together for you if you want it. Take a break for a few days and then get back on the kit and play what makes you happy mate.

If all else fails..... Kick out a funky beat that rocks and makes you smile when you play it :)

Keep it up mate.
Cheers,titch.

Titch Davidson Says Re: Frustrationville

Submitted On: Friday, Jul 9, 2010 - 3:27 PM

Hi Julian,

I know how you feel mate, It can be very frustration, i have had some thoughts about my own drumming and how it sounds and how much i know, I can say for the double stroke it takes time and alot of commitment, try using a clicker and playing double at an easy pace and work up slowly, get comfy and doing it at a tempo thats good then increase the tempo a little. Its work, but it is the answer. The rest of it will come though if you sit and go for it and listen to how your coming along, record it, play it back and find the area's you need to tighten up.
Hope this helps mate.
Check out the site i co-founded for some cool wee licks. www.thedrumninja.com

Cheers,Titch

Julian Gold Says Re: Re: Frustrationville

Submitted On: Saturday, Jul 10, 2010 - 4:01 AM

Thanks Titch, I checked out your website and was delighted to read your first article - the highly relevant "How to Stay Motivated" :-)

Deep down I know it's about hard work. Just wish I knew how much! But I think I read a quote from Buddy Rich which said that if you're not enjoying practice, stop and go do something else. It's easy to get impatient (especially an impulsive "want it now" type like me :D) and that I think can be counter-productive. The only cure is to get in touch with what it is you want to do and why - exactly like your article said, listening to great musicians and great music. And that motivates another round of practice :-)

Thanks for your support!

Cheers

Julian