Gear & Books Advice

Choosing a drum kit

Acoustic or electronic?

An acoustic kit gives pupils the feel of real drums and cymbals and helps them learn to control volume and dynamics. Dampening products can reduce the volume for practice.

An electronic kit can be a practical choice where noise or space is limited, especially if the pupil also plays an acoustic kit at school or during lessons. Pads still make tapping sounds, and pedals can transmit vibration through the floor.

Whatever kit you choose, a separate practice pad is invaluable for developing hand technique quietly.

Size and layout

For younger pupils, I usually recommend an 18-inch or 20-inch bass drum. A standard 22-inch bass drum can be unnecessarily large for a child.

If graded exams are a possibility, check the relevant syllabus before buying. A versatile setup normally includes two mounted toms, a floor tom, hi-hats, a crash cymbal and a ride cymbal. Some starter kits do not include a ride cymbal. Ask me before making a substantial purchase.

Keeping the peace with neighbours

Agree sensible practice times and aim for short, regular sessions of around 20 minutes. Avoid mealtimes, late evenings and other agreed quiet periods. Being considerate and consistent makes practice easier for everyone to support.

In my studio, lessons take place on two professional-quality acoustic kits, set up side by side. This lets me demonstrate ideas and play alongside pupils without anyone needing to swap seats or share a kit.

Grade exam books

Every exam board has strengths and weaknesses. Grades can provide useful goals, but pupils should never learn only the minimum required to pass an exam and immediately move on. That approach leaves large gaps in technique, reading and musicianship.

Buy the official book for the relevant grade and use it as one part of a broader programme of study.

• Trinity Rock & Pop drums

• Trinity Classical & Jazz percussion

• ABRSM Drum Kit

• Rockschool drums

Essential equipment beyond the drum kit

• Music stand

• Metronome, or use a reliable app

• Drumsticks: 5A is a good general starting size

• Practice pad

• Suitable headphones

• Hearing protection suitable for musicians

These are examples rather than compulsory purchases. Ask me before buying if you are unsure.

Further books worth your money

Technique books

• Stick Control / Accents and Rebounds by George Lawrence Stone—classic technique books that remain immensely useful.

Jazz and brushes

• The Jazz Drummer’s Reading Workbook by Tom Morgan—excellent for learning to swing with a band.

• Jazz Drumming Transitions by Terry O’Mahoney—useful for moving between common jazz styles.

• The Sound of Brushes by Ed Thigpen—a superb guide to brush movements; you can even practise directly on the book.

Snare drum

• 50 Short Pieces for Snare Drum by Keith Bartlett—classical-style pieces from beginner to moderate level.

• The All-American Drummer by Charley Wilcoxon—a rudimental classic.

Play-alongs and method books

• Progressive Drum Method by Craig Lauritsen —a perfect follow-on from the 'Play Drumkit' book.

• The Drummer’s Play-Along by Cristiano Micalizzi—many styles with charts to play through.

• A Fresh Approach to the Drumset by Mark Wessels—exercises, etudes and a great deal of useful material.

• Basic Drumming by Joel Rothman—a huge collection covering many areas of playing.

• Groove Essentials by Tommy Igoe—grooves in a wide range of styles, with charts and play-alongs.

• Survival Guide for the Modern Drummer by Jim Riley—particularly strong play-along tracks.

A note on recommendations

No single book or piece of equipment suits everybody. Age, size, experience, musical interests, available space and budget all matter. If you are one of my pupils, please ask before making an expensive purchase—I’m always happy to help you choose. Hugh.