Learning to play the drums is an exciting undertaking, but buying a drum set or kit can be costly if you don’t know if you’ll stick with it. Taking lessons can also be expensive, so it’s necessary to look at how you can be budget-friendly when you want to start drumming.
There are plenty of ways to begin your drumming journey without hurting your wallet. Here are some helpful and affordable ways to start drumming and practical tips to get you on your way.
Skip The Drum Set
Even though practicing with a drum kit or set can be helpful, you don’t have to have one to start learning how to drum. You can utilize a practice pad as a much more cost-effective route to buying an entire kit.
Practice pads are quieter than a drum set, making it less distracting if you live with others. They also are more portable, so moving them from place to place is far more manageable.
Most practice pads cost between twenty and fifty dollars, making them a much wiser investment for beginners. As you progress and want to improve your skills, you can purchase a kit or a set for practice.
Assess Your Needs
It can be just as crucial to do some research when it comes to basic equipment and your needs as you begin drumming. YOu might want to ask yourself some questions, such as:
- Do I need to take drum lessons, or will I plan to be self-taught?
- How much do drum lessons cost?
- How much can I invest in my drumming?
- What kind of songs/music genres would I like to learn on the drums?
- Do I have the time and patience to put in the practice necessary to learn and progress?
If you have good self-discipline, you can learn on your own with the drums by working with free online videos and tutorials to get started with your drumming and save some money. However, drum lessons may be worthwhile if you want to advance and progress in your learning more quickly, as an instructor can easily tailor lessons to suit your learning style.
As you continue to improve your skills, you’ll also want to ensure your equipment is in top condition to support your progress. Whether you’re upgrading your setup or replacing worn-out gear, you can conveniently buy drum and hardware replacements online. This allows you to explore a wide range of options, compare prices, and find exactly what you need without leaving your practice space. Investing in quality components will not only enhance your playing experience but also ensure your drum kit lasts for years to come.
Time is another important factor in drumming. Besides being budget-friendly, be sure you have time to commit to your craft. As is with any instrument, it takes time and dedication to learn.
Purchasing Second Hand
Maybe a practice pad isn’t good enough, and you want a drum kit that will work right from the start. Drumming gear can be expensive if you purchase it new, but there may be some options for buying used or second-hand drumming equipment.
It can be tricky to determine what makes drum equipment “in good condition,” so have someone help you inspect the items to ensure they will work. If buying online, ask for detailed photos to ensure they are in working order.
Budget-Friendly Drum Kits
If you want to invest in a complete drum kit without having to shop around, there are still some affordable options available to you. For example, entry-level acoustic kits cost around a few hundred dollars, and electronic drum kits cost even less.
Look for beginner-friendly models that offer value for a decent price. Electronic kits can be an excellent investment if you live with others or are in an apartment building where sound travels, as you can practice silently with headphones.
Completely Free Options
If you don’t want to spend any money while starting your journey, there are options for that, too! Consider using easy household items like cushions or books as your drum surfaces.
You can even practice coordination by air drumming or tapping on a tabletop. You can still develop muscle memory and rhythm without needing to have any gear and start your drumming journey.
Free and Cheap Learning Resources
Before you find and invest in private drum lessons, you can start learning the drums with some easy, low-cost, or free resources online. YouTube has plenty of available tutorials and beginner techniques for drumming you can find.
There are also drumming apps you can download, including Drumeo or Simple Drummer, that offer lessons, interactive exercises, and play-along tracks, which are cheaper options. Drumming online community forums or social media groups can help you connect with other drummers for tips, techniques, and access to resources.
Private lessons can be worth the investment, but if you’re a beginner, using free or cheaper learning avenues can be helpful first. Investing your time in that for a bit can be beneficial, so if you know you want to continue and are ready to invest, you can work with an instructor going forward.
Renting Equipment
One last way you can save money when it comes to learning the drums is by renting or borrowing equipment. If you take lessons, chances are your drum instructor will have a drum kit for you to practice with for your lessons, and that can help you when you’re ready to invest in your own kit.
Local music stores have rental programs, and some schools or community centers in your area might lend you equipment to practice. If that’s an option, you can borrow a drum kit from a friend or family member who already owns one.
Begin Your Drumming Journey Without The High Cost
Starting your drumming on a budget doesn’t mean you must compromise your learning experience. With clear goals and mastering the fundamentals of drumming, you can easily begin learning and making progress.
By being resourceful and prioritizing your needs, you can start your drumming journey without financial stress. Your most necessary investment will be the time and dedication you put into your practice to become a skilled drummer.
