I am all about saving fellow-drummers from heartache and headache, which is why I enjoy writing articles to help drummers avoid wasting their time and talent. If you are a drummer looking to gig, join a band or just seeking casual jam sessions with other musicians, you will want to read this article My Four Standards to Achieving Drummer Nirvana. Whether you are a beginner, intermediate, or an advanced drummer, you may want to keep these four things in mind. If you have your own standards beyond the ones I chose, please leave them in the comments section below, to share with our community.
Wow, I thought this was going to be fun!
Many of us have been there. If not yet, you will. I am referring to that invitation you received to jam with other musicians. Sounded great, until you realized quickly, the compatibility is not there. In my opinion, compatibility falls under; skill level, style, brand, and approach. With that said, years ago a drummer told me something I never forgot; “surround yourself with better, and you will be better.” So, as you market yourself for gigs, jams or bands, you will want to seek out musicians who can elevate your skill level. Doing so, will give you that little push beyond what you already bring to the table. Such experiences were excellent ways for me to hone in on my dynamics and timing, while it taught me how to add the right amount of “spice” to a piece without “over playing” it. So, remember, the level of musicianship you surround yourself, will pretty much dictate your skill set, brand, and style – Choose wisely!
There are two types of feelings musicians have in their stomach…
Another standard to have when collaborating with any musician would be chemistry. I have witnessed some epic melt-downs. I have never had them directed at me (thank g-d!) , but let me tell you, there is nothing more nerve-racking then thinking “Crap, I may be next!” Feeling this way will only stunt your growth as a musician, and draw out all the fun you should be having.
There are two types of feelings musicians have in their stomach. The first one is the best one – It is the butterflies you get when you are about to perform. It’s a rush! The second feeling we get is a pit more than it is butterflies. It’s that pit that gnaws at you repeatedly asking the question; “what am i doing here?!” Whatever the pit may be that is screaming at you, avoid getting a reputation of being a musician who skips out when things get tough.
Some good questions to ask yourself are:
- Can I grow from the experience?
- Am I having fun?
- Can the “pit” be resolved by talking it out with group/individual?
Honestly, if I answer the first two questions with a “no” – I AM WALKING! Playing the drums is likely a passion of yours, a “happy-place.” If so, protect that by looking for musicians who welcome your brand, and embrace your standards. Bands are a lot like a marriage – There will be good times, and there will be bad times. It’s up to you to determine if the bad is holding you back. If so, discuss it with the group to find resolve. Because you want a good reputation in the music community, try to have walking away be the last resort.
Sheesh, It’s like a marriage!
Commitment should be up there on your list of expectations. Commitment and work ethics go hand-in-hand. People showing up late, or getting sloshed and playing like crap. This all plays into Commitment, which should always be a two-way street. Commitment is not just to their art, but also include; their commitment to projects, gigs, hashing out issues, being considerate to others, and able to leave any personal issues at the door. That is why it is important that YOU bring a quality “you” to the gig, jam, practice or audition. Just like Chemistry, if you are feeling that pit in your stomach because of Commitment issues, talk things out with the band or individual first. In short, be the one to communicate what is bothering you. Trust me, most musicians detest drama, and will respect you for wanting to stomp out issues, quickly and calmly.
WIIFM – What’s In It For Me?
Usually, when we hear the word Compensation we tend to think ah, money! Compensation to a drummer (musician) can mean other things like; marketing exposure, gig opportunities, building experience or a resume, bartering, the list goes on. You should decide at this stage of your drumming what you want your compensation be. This can be anything (reasonable) you are looking to get from the experience.
As I mentioned on my Home Page, I personally, have reached a point in my playing where compensation is less about the money, and more about new collaborations with other like-minded, focused musicians.
Sure when you say “what’s in it for me?” it sounds rude, but you don’t need to express that, as much as communicating the goals and objectives you want to take away from the experience, as a musician. Next, you want to make clear the Timeline you want to have your reasonable goals and objectives completed by. Once you know what you want for “Compensation” be sure to have a candid talk about them with those you are collaborating with. Doing so, will eliminate misunderstandings, and wasted time. Knowing what you want and remaining true to that, will point you in the direction of becoming that musician you are striving to become.
Whether it be a jam, a session, or a full-time position for a band, make sure the time is going to help you reach your goals.