Am I Too Old to Learn Drums?
You are never too old to start learning drums! Drums are one of the most accessible instruments for adult beginners. At Drumz, our drum lessons are tailored for all ages. Many adult students are thrilled to discover they can play along with their favourite songs by the end of their first drum lesson. Whether you're 30, 50, or 70+, it's never too late to start your drumming journey with Richard's expert tuition.
Is Drumming Good for Your Health?
Absolutely! Drumming offers incredible physical and mental health benefits, making it an excellent activity for people of all ages. It provides a genuine physical workout that burns calories and improves coordination, while simultaneously enhancing cognitive function and making you smarter. The act of drumming reduces anxiety, promotes relaxation, and serves as powerful stress relief. It also improves memory, timing, and concentration through its unique combination of rhythm and movement. Numerous scientific studies confirm these benefits, making drum lessons a fun and engaging way to boost your overall wellbeing while learning a musical skill
Do I Need to Own a Drum Kit to Take Lessons?
No drum kit required to start learning! One of the great advantages of drum lessons at Drumz is that you can practice essential drumming skills without owning a kit. Richard teaches coordination and rhythm fundamentals using simple practice methods: you can tap your foot on the floor for bass drum patterns, tap your legs for hi-hat, cymbal, and snare rhythms, and practice drum rudiments on a practice pad. As you progress with your drum lessons you may choose to invest in your own kit, but it's not necessary to begin.
Should I Buy an Acoustic or Electric Drum Kit?
Electric drum kits are the most popular choice for students taking drum lessons. Nearly all of Richard's students choose electric kits because they're almost completely silent when played through headphones, making them perfect for home practice without disturbing neighbours. They're also compact and space-efficient, which is ideal for flats and the terraced houses.
​
Acoustic drum kits have their advantages too, particularly their authentic drum feel and sound. They're easily transportable for performances and school events, making them great for students who plan to play at gigs or concerts. They work well in garden studios or detached properties, and while silencer pads are available, acoustic kits do require more space than electric alternatives. Richard can advise which option suits your living situation and musical goals during your drum lessons.
Is My Child Too Young for Drum Lessons?
Children can start drum lessons from around age 5, though every child develops differently. Richard has extensive teaching experience with young learners across Surrey, and understands the physical and developmental requirements for successful drum lessons. Before age five, most children of average height find it challenging to reach the pedals on a standard drum kit, which can limit their ability to play properly. While it's possible for children as young as three to play a single drum or practice pad, maintaining engagement and motivation with such limited options can be difficult over multiple lessons. Richard recommends starting comprehensive drum lessons around age 5-6, when children have the physical coordination, attention span, and reach needed for the best learning experience.
Should I Study for Graded Drum Exams?
For most young learners taking drum lessons, graded exams are highly recommended. Richard encourages exam preparation because graded pieces provide a structured curriculum that neatly covers essential drumming techniques. The exam process creates clear goals that motivate consistent practice, and students earn recognised qualifications from boards like Rockschool and Trinity. Beyond the certificates that celebrate achievement, these graded pieces become performance-ready material for school concerts and family celebrations. The exam journey builds confidence and discipline that extends far beyond drumming. Whether you're aiming for Grade 1 or working toward advanced levels, Richard's drum lessons provide comprehensive exam preparation alongside creative, enjoyable teaching methods.
Where do you teach Drumz?
We have rooms in a number of venues in Ewell, Epsom and Ashtead. They have been chosen for their locations in order to work for students that travel in from Leatherhead, Banstead, Chessington, Cobham and Stoneleigh
Ready to Start Your Drumming Journey?
Contact Richard Henderson at Drumz for professional drum lessons in Epsom, Ewell, and Ashtead. Beginners welcome, all ages, all abilities.