Is it truly essential to understand how to read drum notation? If you aspire to become a well-rounded, skilled drummer, then the answer is yes. Reading notes is a crucial aspect of drumming. It’s true that some successful drummers out there may not read music and still excel, but that doesn’t diminish its importance. In this brief article, I will attempt to explain why.
Reading drum notation offers numerous benefits, many of which beginners may not initially realize. First and foremost, it provides you with versatility. You can play and reproduce music you’ve never heard before, and it’s an incredibly effective way of communicating ideas. While memorizing content is helpful to some extent, it can only take you so far.
Learning to read drum notation enables you to comprehend and progress more easily and quickly. Not only will you learn, but you will also understand how various elements work and connect with one another. You can grasp the bigger picture, better understand your instrument, and develop a deeper appreciation for music. This can elevate your drumming skills to an entirely new level. Moreover, it’s not as difficult to learn as some may lead you to believe.
If you are unable to read notation, you also can’t write it, which means you can’t put your ideas down on paper. Without a method to store your ideas, how can you expect to remember them months or years later? You won’t.
In conclusion, by learning just a few fundamental concepts that are not overly challenging, you can access a wealth of knowledge and resources that would otherwise be impossible for you to utilize. Give it a try and see for yourself. It’s not that difficult, and I’m confident you will be amazed at how much it helps. Most successful drummers, including your favorites, likely know how to read drum notation. Keep that in mind.
Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME