Drum Set Therapy

Today we are talking to Professor and author RobToulson all about drum tuning and the principles of drum acoustics. Rob is the creator of the iDrumTune app and the author of "Drum Sound and Drum Tuning".  Visit Rob at  https://www.idrumtune.com to check out the app and free lessons from his drum tuning course.

Whether you’re playing a local club or a big stage, the soundcheck is one of the most important parts of your gig day—and one of the most misunderstood. In this episode, we’re breaking down how to make the most of your soundcheck so your drums sound great and you stay cool under pressure. https://drumlessonsinla.com/blog/the-drum-set-shrink-podcast

It’s a question every drummer wonders at some point. The truth? It depends on your goals, practice routine, and passion for learning. Getting "good" is a journey—not a destination—and it looks different for everyone!   What does ‘being good’ mean to you? https://drumlessonsinla.com/blog/the-drum-set-shrink-podcast

The  bearing edge  is one of the most important—and often overlooked—features of a drum shell. It determines how the drumhead contacts the shell, affecting resonance, sustain, attack, tuning range, and feel. Here's a comparison of a couple of common bearing edges: For a deeper dive on bearing edges, check out this episode of The Drum History Podcast. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nTcUkR-AR-M

In this episode of  Drum Set Therapy , we talk about the practice method of practicing on pillows. Does it actually help your technique, speed, and endurance—or does it hurt your drumming?

Ever feel like you’re practicing a lot but not getting better? You might be dealing with a few common practice flaws. In this episode, we break down some of the most common practice flaws that hold drummers back—no matter their level. These habits can slow your progress without you even realizing it.  

Structuring your practice time is one of the most important skills drummers can develop. A clear structure helps you stay focused, make measurable progress, and avoid wasting time at the kit.   This free guide will help you learn the simple keys to getting real results from your practice sessions. https://drumlessonsinla.com/dont-waste-your-time-practicing

 In this episode of  Drum Set Therapy , we discuss how different drumstick sizes can affect your playing. When you’re trying to find drumsticks that feel great to play, it is helpful to know the characteristics that affect their performance. Let’s take a look at the things that make the difference. . https://drumlessonsinla.com/blog/the-anatomy-of-a-drumstick

"Hit Record: Why Recording Practice Sessions Works Wonders" One of the most powerful tools for your young musician’s progress is already in your pocket: your phone. In this episode, we talk about why  recording practice sessions  — even short clips — can massively boost motivation, track improvement, and build confidence.

Playing for the Song 🎧 Episode Description: In this episode replay, we’re diving into what it means to play for the song. I think this phrase can be misunderstood and misused. We’ll break down: 🎵 What it really means to “serve the song.” 🥁 Tips for balancing groove, dynamics, and creative flair. 🎶 Real-world examples to help you recognize the difference between "showy" and "show...

Handling other musicians telling you what to play is a  real-world skill  every drummer (and band member) has to learn. It’s about clear communication. Let's talk about it.

Electric drums are an excellent choice for many drummers — especially when learning in apartments, shared homes, or small spaces. Here are some thoughts to consider if you're in the market for an electric kit.

Is There Such a Thing as Too Much Practice? Let's discuss Mental burnout Physical overuse Diminishing returns A healthier way to structure practice

In this drum teacher interview, I share my personal  drumming journey , my approach to  teaching drums , and the strategies I use to  keep students motivated. Book online or in-person lessons in Los Angeles:   https://DrumLessonsInLA.com

Today we’re talking about using words or phrases—also known as mnemonics—to help remember and internalize drum rhythms. By attaching rhythms to spoken words, you can improve your timing, feel, and consistency without overthinking counting or notation. This technique is great for: • Beginner drummers learning new rhythms • Adults returning to the drums • Students struggling with counting • Anyone w...

Drum fills are more than flashy drum tricks — they guide the music, add excitement, and help give drummers their musical voice. https://drumlessonsinla.com/blog/iconic-drum-breaks-in-songs

Touring sounds glamorous… until you’re doing laundry in a venue sink. This episode breaks down the real-world logic of packing clothes for tour without overpacking—or smelling up the van. https://drumlessonsinla.com/blog/the-drum-set-shrink-podcast

"Are You Too Old to Play the Drums?" Short answer? Absolutely not! Drumming has no age limit—it’s about passion, practice, and having fun. Whether you’re picking up sticks for the first time or returning after years away, it’s never too late to start. https://drumlessonsinla.com/blog/the-drum-set-shrink-podcast

Can you hear the difference between a maple drum and a birch drum? Today we demonstrate the difference between birch, maple, mahogany, poplar, and walnut woods on the same-sized toms. The size, drumheads, and tuning are the same on each drum. I recommend you use headphones to hear the subtle differences of each shell type.  Here is a link to a video of the demonstration, so you can see the drums b...

“Is it good or bad to take lessons with multiple teachers?” The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. There are benefits, risks, and a few smart ways to do it so you  grow  instead of getting overwhelmed. Let’s break it down.

Playing ahead and behind the beat. This is one of those topics that separates drummers who play the notes from drummers who make the music feel good. Let’s break down what that actually means, how to practice it, and when it’s okay to bend the grid a little. https://drumlessonsinla.com/blog/the-drum-set-shrink-podcast

If you’ve ever gone to a jam session, rehearsal, or gig where multiple drummers are sharing one kit, you know things can get… awkward. Can you move the throne? Touch the cymbals? Switch out the snare? Knowing some basic  drum set etiquette  can  show respect, and make you look professional. Here are some tips for sharing the kit .

The popularity of podcasts has exploded in the last several years. As drummers, we now have an abundance of great drumming podcasts to listen to and learn from. Each of these podcasts has its own personality and take on drumming. Check out links to each of these at https://drumlessonsinla.com/blog/drumming-podcasts

Impostor syndrome doesn’t necessarily mean you’re not good enough—it means you care deeply about your craft. Every musician, from beginners to professionals, wrestles with it. The key is to acknowledge it, then keep playing anyway. Because the truth is: if you’re making music, you already belong. https://drumlessonsinla.com/blog/the-drum-set-shrink-podcast

Excess Tension – The Silent Progress Killer Here is an exercise to help you play loose and relaxed. https://drumlessonsinla.com/blog/the-drum-set-shrink-podcast