Learning How to Play

This one's about using music you have/the radio to learn... kind of needs some editing, but here it is for now. Dave

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For me, I always tell people to listen to whatever they like and try very hard to listen for the percussion section. Then, try to tap out the dominant rhythmic pattern(s) on a steering wheel, table top, or whatever is handy. You might have to try finding a simpler song at first. So, to practice, you don't actually need a drum -- in fact, there are practice pads out there, though they're usually for sticks.

I also tell people to tapping along with dance/pop music at first. Why? It was made with a click track and processed drum beats. So, it will be easier to follow, very evident, and very steady in terms of tempo. Eventually, though, finding something with actual hand drumming would be beneficial. Watching musical performances helps, too, as you can see real drumming taking place.

Speaking of which... there are numerous forms of hand drumming: West African, Latin, Native American, Balkan, .... I think it's great if someone can hear a variety.

Note: when tapping, start with either hand with equal frequency -- a few years from now you will be grateful if you can play with your non-dominant hand.

Dave