12 of 14

Write now Article Tools

It's all very well buying your first acoustic drum kit and getting started in playing, it's only a matter of time however until the neighbors start complaining and you therefore need to find somewhere more suitable to practice. When I first stated out I had this very problem, I wanted to play the drums all the time and yet my neighbors just didn't leave the house often enough.

I knew that if I played them whilst they were in then there would be some serious complaints, they just never seemed to leave the house though and before long I was forced to move my practice elsewhere.

If you have a local music shop near you then the chances are that they will let you practice in their store more often than not. There will be times when it just won't be convenient, most of the time however they won't mind at all you practicing there; get friendly with the owner and my experience is that you will have no problems whatsoever. Perhaps I just know a lot of friendly music shop owners though, if this doesn't work out for you then there are other means to consider for making sure you get your drum practice in.

Practice rooms can be rented out fairly cheaply, get together with a few friends if necessary and share the cost between you. If you do this then not only will you have a place to practice but you'll also be able to jam with other musicians and this will improve your drumming expertise no end. When I first started drumming I wasn't very good at all, with the help of friends however I soon got up to speed and my timing was helped hugely by playing alongside fellow musicians. If you want to be alone in your practice then you can rent the room to yourself, I'd definitely recommend hiring a location out with others however as not only will it work out cheaper for you but it will also be greatly beneficial to your improvement.

If you search around then bands will always be looking for drummers, go to a few auditions and perhaps you will find a band that you can play in. The chances are that the band will already have a place to practice, so not only will you have a place to perform but you'll also have a band to call yourself a part of. Being in a band can definitely help hone your talent, and if your band starts gigging then the experience you will gain in the live setting will be amazing. Practicing with others is always a lot more fun than playing by yourself, there are times when you just want to let out some steam on the drums alone but when performing in the company of others this is for the most part much more enjoyable.

So, you can sit at home and wait for the neighbors to go out (not a very effective method) or perhaps try out a couple of the ideas I have suggested here. Acoustic drum kits can be excruciatingly loud so really it is always best to find somewhere secluded in order to insure that you will not disturb others. If drumming really is your passion then always you will find a place to practice, the in-built need to drum will rule you and you will therefore do whatever possible in order to find a place to practice. A place to practice may well cost you money, this is not always the case however so seek and you shall find.

Learn more about this author, Richard Leigh.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Acoustic drums: Finding space to practice (without upsetting the neighbors) ?
We want to hear your view. Write now!