For aspiring drummers dreaming of a career in music, the journey can be both exhilarating and daunting. From honing your skills to navigating the industry landscape, there’s a wealth of knowledge and experience to draw upon from seasoned professionals.
We tap into the wisdom of professional drummers who have carved out successful careers in the music industry. Whether you’re a beginner looking to take your first steps or a seasoned player aiming to elevate your career, these insider tips will provide valuable insights and guidance on pursuing a career in music.
1. Master your craft
At the heart of any successful music career lies a foundation of technical proficiency and musicality. Professional drummers emphasise the importance of dedicating time to mastering your craft, whether it’s practising rudiments, refining your timing, or exploring different musical styles.
Regular practice not only improves your skills but also builds confidence and versatility as a drummer. As renowned drummer Tony Williams once said, “The drums are the backbone of any band, and the better you are, the stronger the backbone.”
2. Embrace continuous learning
The music industry is constantly evolving, and staying ahead of the curve requires a commitment to lifelong learning. Professional drummers recommend immersing yourself in a variety of musical genres, studying different drumming techniques, and seeking out opportunities for growth and development.
Whether it’s attending workshops, taking lessons from experienced teachers, or simply jamming with other musicians, every learning experience contributes to your growth as a drummer and musician.
3. Network and collaborate
Building a successful music career often relies on forging connections and collaborating with other musicians. Professional drummers stress the importance of networking within the music community, whether it’s attending industry events, joining online forums, or simply reaching out to fellow musicians.
By building relationships with other artists, producers, and industry professionals, you open doors to potential gigs, collaborations, and career opportunities.
4. Develop your own style
While technical proficiency is essential, professional drummers emphasise the importance of developing your own unique style and voice as a musician. Experiment with different rhythms, grooves, and dynamics to find what resonates with you and sets you apart from other drummers.
Whether it’s incorporating elements of jazz, funk, hip-hop, or rock into your playing, embracing your individuality can help you stand out in a competitive industry and attract attention from audiences and fellow musicians alike.
5. Stay persistent and resilient
The road to success in the music industry is rarely smooth, and setbacks and challenges are inevitable. Professional drummers stress the importance of staying persistent and resilient in the face of adversity.
Whether it’s facing rejection from auditions, navigating the uncertainties of freelance gigging, or weathering the ups and downs of the industry, maintaining a positive mindset and unwavering determination are key to overcoming obstacles and achieving your goals.
6. Embrace opportunities for growth
As you progress in your music career, be open to new opportunities and experiences that come your way. Whether it’s joining a band, recording sessions, touring, or teaching, each opportunity offers valuable learning experiences and contributes to your growth as a musician.
Professional drummers advise embracing opportunities outside your comfort zone, as they often lead to personal and artistic growth and open doors to new career pathways.
7. Cultivate professionalism and reliability
In a competitive industry like music, professionalism and reliability are highly valued traits. Professional drummers stress the importance of showing up on time, being prepared for rehearsals and gigs, and maintaining a positive attitude and work ethic.
Building a reputation as a dependable and professional musician not only fosters trust and respect among your peers but also increases your chances of securing future opportunities and collaborations.
Conclusion
Pursuing a career in music as a drummer is a rewarding yet challenging endeavour that requires dedication, perseverance, and passion. As professional drummer Steve Gadd once said, “If you’re passionate about music and you love playing, the rest will fall into place.”
After reading this, are you ready to take the next step? If so, consider attending drum lessons at Studio72, where you can immerse yourself in the joys of drumming alongside professional musicians in the local music industry. We also provide vocal training in Singapore for those that want to improve their singing skills as well.
Simply contact us here for more information.
