A- No, the drums are not hard to learn.  They are no harder than learning how to ride a bike or learning how to use the latest computer.  It just takes a little time, trial and error, and the three P's-"PRACTICE, PATIENCE, AND PERSEVERANCE"

2.  Q- I don't want to buy a drum set for my son until I know this is something he is really committed to.  Does he need a drum set to start taking lessons?

               A- No, absolutely not!  I would recommend waiting 3-6 months before getting a set.  There are also wonderful alternatives such as pad drum sets which are very affordable and portable.  After the first lesson, your son will only need a pair of drum sticks, a drum pad, two books, and a metronome.  A music stand is recommended.

3.  Q.  My Daughter has sports in the fall.  Can she take 3 months off and start again later?
   
            A- Yes, although it is not recommended.  You lose what you don't use.  Also, lesson time availability is not guaranteed when you return.  Try first to reschedule for another day or time before discontinuing lessons.  Keep an open line of communication with your instructor.

4.  Q- I am a thirty-six year old female and always wanted to play the drums.  Do women really play drums and is it too late to start?

           A- First, many girls play the drums.  There are many accomplished female rock and jazz drummers.  Some examples are Patty Schemel with the band Hole, Sheila E. with Prince, and Cindy Blackman, who is a famous jazz drummer.  As for the question is it too late to start, it's never too late to learn to play the drums.  It doesn't matter if you're 8 or 80.  You learn new things all the time at all ages.  One of my best students has been a retired policeman who started at 62 and told me he always wanted to play in a band.  Now he's in a band with some friends of his.  Drums may bring back a feeling of youth and relaxation you forgot existed because of 40 hour work weeks, business meetings, or family responsibilities.

5.  Q- How long will it take before I become good enough to join a rock or jazz band?

            A- On average, a beginner will learn drum set independence in a month or two.  To start playing with other musicians it could take 9 to 12 months, but don't worry if it takes longer.  You get out what you put in.  Play for the fun of it, when you are ready to play with other people, you should feel comfortable with your ability.

6.  Q- My friend is a professional pianist and practices the piano every day for up to 10 hours.  I can't imagine doing that.  How much do I have to practice?

            A- Don't let your friend scare you! While it's true that many professional musicians do practice up to 10-12 hours in one day, remember that those are real PROS who learned to practice with that kind of endurance over many years.  I recommend you start out practicing a half hour a day five days a week.  That is only 2 and a half hours a week and will produce significant results.  If you want to practice longer, please discuss this with your instructor because too much practice can be harmful to your playing.

7.  Q-  My son is in high school and wants to be a professional drummer.  Is this something he could actually do for a living?

            A- It is great your son has a passion for the drums.  Some Universities offer a performance degree in music as an undergrad.  Keep in mind there is a lot of competition in the U.S. and around the world in the music business.  You and your son should talk to professional musicians in your area to learn more about this kind of living before you make a choice.  Many professional drummers have degrees in majors such as English or Mathematics.  An option you might consider is applying for a drumline scholarship that many top colleges offer to educated young drummers, and then majoring in something that suites your interest.

8.  Q- I never see my daughter practicing for her drum lesson.  What should I do?

            A- First thing to do is just remind her to practice.  Do NOT force her.  She may be practicing when you're not home or on her drum pad which you can't hear.  If you have real concerns, talk with the instructor about her progression.  Believe me, your instructor will know if she has practiced or not.  If it turns out she isn't practicing, give it a month or two.  She may be confused at first.  Check with the instructor after a month of your original concern. 

9.  Q- I am going on vacation with my wife next week.  How am I going to practice?

            A-  A practice pad is your answer.  This is a quiet and portable way to practice.  Stick the pad in your suitcase and you're ready to go!  OK, a week off never hurt anybody so the choice is yours.  After all, vacation is vacation.

10.  Q-  What should I do if I have to miss a lesson?

            A-  Be very clear on the date and give your instructor no less then a week's notice.  If you're going to miss one lesson or more per month on a regular basis, maybe you don't have time for lessons right now.  It is up to the instructor if he will charge for excessive absences.  

If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask me.

Happy Drumming!