Monday Drum Day: Melody with Todd
At this time next week I should have just finished a materclass with Styx drummer Todd Sucherman in London. There should be about thirty of us spending three hours with Todd and I hope to learn a lot. This will be my first in-person drum kit lesson of any sort. I used to play African drums with a group of others years ago, but this is really a different instrument. Todd has done various lessons on Drumeo, including a course called Rock Drumming Masterclass that covers lots of topics. I thought I ought to do some more of that to be more prepared for what he will be teaching so that I can get the most from it.
In the lesson I just looked at he went over some basics about the course covers and provides a song to play over. He says to keep it simple. The piece is notated with lots of 'ghost' notes and high hat accents. I did not play every note there, but tried to keep the beat. I think I may have been very slightly off it, but that is something to keep working on. I also messed up a little at the end, but that is what happens during practive. This is definitely a practice video rather than a polished performance, but it is useful to track my progress.
I quite enjoyed this tune. I definitely feel that my playing has come along, but there is much more to learn and you can always be better. Todd does say that there are no fixed goals to reach in music. It is an art, not a sport. He also says there are no short-cuts.
The lesson also has some exercises on consistent single and double strokes that I will try.
Rock on!
▶️ 3Speak
That true sir, there is no short cuts in music.
The more we practice the more we get better.
You play really well sir.
Thanks for sharing.
You always inspire me to consider learning how to play a musical instrument, with my choice being the keyboard. I have always told myself I will learn, but then I haven't given it a try yet. Well, I will say you inspire me to start
You have to go for it. There are loads of online teachers and lessons.
Nice. I'm quite good on the bongos and congas, but rubbish with these kind of drums haha.
That is super cool that you are going to be doing that. I'm honestly a little jealous. I think I know what you mean about timing, it feels like you might be a little behind on the beat. I can't imagine it's easy playing to a backing track though. I sat down at my nephews kit this past weekend and was horrified at just how bad I was!
I love how your drumming goes with the song
And that person’s voice is so lovely
I also love the fact that you are always willing to learn
Glad I'm doing the right things 😁 We should do what brings joy.
And here I am , I am not good at all on drums 😞