Don't Lose That Drumming Mojo

Drumming can take many forms in a person’s life. From drumming on desktops and steering wheels to drum kits or a Djembe, it becomes a part of life. It is an outlet for creativity, an art, and most of all a passion. However as we all know, often life’s passions fall by the wayside in favor of everyday minutiae. Many things can get in the way of regular drumming, such as jobs, familial obligations, or health issues. As with many creative outlets, the longer you go without indulging in drumming, the harder it can be to return to it.

Drumming is not simply a physical exercise, but a mental one as well. Taking the time to choose a drum is the beginning, but then time has to be found to practice and explore different sounds and grooves in search of one that feels like your own. Drumming can bring good feelings to both drummer and the audience as well as feelings of well-being. Drummers on hiatus may find it hard to return to drumming despite their strong determination to do ao. But like many creative outlets, a hiatus from drumming can often encourage growth both mentally and emotionally in a drummer. New experiences can be drawn from and new techniques can be learned or created. This growth can provide fuel for new creative ways to drum and in turn change a drummer’s style and the sounds they are willing to experiment with. Drumming can be like riding a bicycle. The easiest way to get back into it is to sit down and do it.

While some may find it hard to find time to practice drumming, others may find it physically difficult to drum. Long sessions on a stage, in a circle, or just with friends require an amount of physical stamina and exertion. But for those who find it difficult to drum for long periods of time, adjustments can be made easily. It could be as simple as switching from a larger drum, like a set of Congas, to a smaller drum, such as the Djembe. This can alleviate the necessity of standing for long periods of time. While drumming it is also important to listen to your body. Building up increments of time slowly and taking breaks can help increase stamina, as well as paying attention to your posture.

Getting back into one of your life’s passions may not seem like it would be hard, but other parts of your life often interfere with plans. Often, it is simply a matter of determination and will power. Taking time to practice, even for five minutes, can help reintroduce drumming into your life. But most importantly, is a healthy attitude towards drumming. A drummer must be willing to explore new rhythms and different styles of music as they journey towards their own groove. Allow your creativity to lead you down paths you may not have explored before your hiatus and use your absence as a tool to promote musical growth.