Drum Set Therapy

It’s easy to get caught up in speed when practicing. Faster fills, quicker chops, higher BPMs. But most mistakes, tension, and sloppy playing come from one simple issue: trying to go faster than you’re ready for. Slowing down isn't just for beginners—it’s for pros who want to play with intention and depth. Think about how your favorite drummers sound so effortless. That didn’t come from rushin...

A couple of extra things to bring to the gig besides your drums.  https://drumlessonsinla.com/blog/the-drum-set-shrink-podcast

"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.

"Why Taking Breaks Makes Practice Better"   Ever wonder if you are just spinning your wheels when you get frustrated while practicing? In this episode, we dive into one of the most overlooked parts of a great practice routine:  taking breaks .

"How to Help Your Kid Practice Without Losing Your Mind" Struggling to get your child to practice their instrument — without it turning into a battle? In this episode, we break down simple, realistic tips for parents to make music practice a fun and consistent part of daily life.  You don’t need to be a musician — just a supportive guide. Let’s turn practice into a positive, confidence-b...

It’s that magical word you hear all the time in drumming: feel . Some drummers just have it . Their grooves sit perfectly in the pocket, their fills breathe naturally, and they make the band feel better just by showing up. But here’s the question— is that something you’re born with, or something you can learn? You can’t fake feel. But you can build it—with time, awareness, and the right mindset. h...

What if you approached your drum practice like a video game? In this episode, we explore how playing video games can actually teach us how to think about practicing the drums. https://drumlessonsinla.com/blog/the-drum-set-shrink-podcast

One of the things that separates a good performance from a great one is dynamic playing. It’s more than just how loud or soft you play throughout sections of a song, but playing dynamically involves changes that keep the interest of the listener, even if they’re small ones. This episode discusses some things that will help you play the drums more dynamically. DrumLessonsInLA.com

Drum lessons teach you more than just music. They give you life lessons that you learn along the way. Here are four big ones.  DrumLessonsInLA.com

Thinking about taking the leap from hobbyist to professional drummer? It’s more than just chops and gear— going pro  means mindset, consistency, and knowing how to navigate the world of gigs, studios, teaching, and clients. DrumLessonsInLA.com

Drum solos aren’t just a chance to show off—they’re an opportunity to  say something . In this episode, we explore how to turn your solos into musical  stories  that grab attention, build emotion, and leave an impact. We’ll dive into: How to structure a solo with a clear beginning, middle, and end Using dynamics, space, and contrast to create drama and narrative The difference between technical ch...

Here is a bonus tip to add to last week's show about soundchecks. DrumLessonsinLA.com

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

Today's question is, If you could go back to day one behind the kit, what would you change?

It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to other drummers—especially in the age of endless social media chops, polished performances, and flashy highlight reels. But comparisons don’t have to crush you—they can  fuel  you. Let’s stop measuring ourselves against others and start measuring our progress. Your path is yours—own it.

Stage fright is super common—even the best drummers and performers experience it! The key is learning how to manage that nervous energy so it works for you, not against you. Here are some practical tips. https://drumlessonsinla.com/blog/dealing-with-stagefright

Keeping a positive mindset while practicing can make all the difference in your progress. Here are a few more ways to stay inspired and keep moving forward:   Celebrate wins  – Every improvement counts.   Focus on the journey  – Growth takes time, enjoy the ride!   Stay inspired  – Listen, learn, and keep drumming!   How do you stay positive about your drumming? Links mentioned on the show: https:...

"Am I 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

Staying Positive In Your Drumming   Journey Every drummer has ups and downs—one day you feel unstoppable, and the next, you’re stuck in a rut. This week I want to encourage you to keep a positive attitude in your drumming journey.

Struggling to fit drum practice into your busy schedule? You’re not alone. Whether you're juggling work, school, gigs, or family life, finding consistent practice time can feel like an uphill battle. But with the right approach, it’s totally doable. You don’t need hours a day to make progress—just intention and consistency. Tune in and discover how to keep your drumming moving forward, no matt...

A song with an interesting drum introduction can grab your attention and pull you into wanting to hear more. Here is a list of a few of those songs that start with great drumming intros. Copyright restrictions prohibit me from playing the songs in this episode. Here is a link to where you can listen to the show with the songs included. https://youtu.be/m_45PXapPNU To listen to the full songs, visi...

A song with an interesting drum introduction can grab your attention and pull you into wanting to hear more. Here is a list of a few MORE of those songs that start with great drumming intros. Copyright restrictions prohibit me from playing the songs in this episode. Here is a link to where you can listen to the show with the songs included. https://youtu.be/dovXWdrC6C4 To listen to the full songs,...

We are discussing Jeff Porcaro's many legendary shuffle grooves. Copyright restrictions prohibit me from playing the songs. Below is a link to where you can listen to the show with samples of each song played. https://youtu.be/rvU1mtMyDX0 https://drumlessonsinla.com/blog/the-drum-set-shrink-podcast

🥁 The Role of a Drummer 🎶 A drummer is often seen as the backbone of a band, but their role goes far beyond just keeping the beat. Great drummers drive the energy , shape the dynamics , and lock in the groove to bring the music to life. From supporting the band to leading transitions and setting the feel of a song, drummers are the heartbeat of any musical performance. 💬 What do you think makes...

Your drum gear is more than just equipment—it’s your voice as a musician. But keeping it safe, secure, and in great condition takes a little know-how. In this episode, we’re breaking down what you need to know about protecting your investment, both at home and on the go. Hit that play button, and let’s protect those grooves!  https://drumlessonsinla.com/blog/the-drum-set-shrink-podcast