Beginner Drum Lessons: How to Get Gigs as a Drummer

Once you have passed the stage of taking beginner drum lessons, you might want to expand your experience to more than just learning in class and practicing at home. This means getting gigs and working with different people in different environments. This will really broaden your perspective of drumming and help you learn more about different music genres as well as how to be a professional musician. The question is – how do you get gigs in the first place?

Check out the classifieds

There are always openings for a drummer in concerts, restaurants, pubs, studios and pretty much anyplace else where music is performed. Very often, you would be matched with a band and get the opportunity to learn from the other members. Check out the classified in music papers and journals, music websites, etc. Go to the local music store and let them know you are available in case anyone’s seeking a drummer. Try out talent agencies that are always on the lookout for talented drummers.

Networking

Musicians usually get gigs directly through other musicians. It is important to network a lot. Attend concerts, ask to accompany your drum teacher to any gigs they are performing and get into conversation there. Get into the local musical culture and invest some time in getting to know the people in the business. Being a musician is a business, so you have to apply some business practices to your career, including networking and building up contacts. Be friendly and open about what you are seeking. If they don’t know what you want, they won’t be able to help you.

Practice!

If you find out what kinds of gigs are available, do take the trouble to practice a little before showing them what you can do. Make sure you know the kind of music they are asking for before you apply. Be flexible in your options and try to have at least a basic understanding of different genres, so your opportunities for getting a gig go up. Keep practicing on your side so when you do meet someone with a job offer, you are in a position to impress them.

Professionalism

Whether it is while meeting to discuss the gig, playing during the session or afterwards, show professionalism. This means being on time for all appointments and gigs, giving the best you can to the gig, be respectful of others, and in short, be reliable. If people see that you are efficient and reliable, they will be glad to give you work even if you don’t have the kind of experience they might have liked. For more information on the drumming culture, refer to www.drumlessonssingapore.com.

Keep your day job

This one is essential. Don’t expect to become rich and famous overnight. A beginner drummer does not make much, and sometimes has to even work for free. You really need the money flowing in, so you can maintain your drums, continue your drum set lessons, pay your bills, and have a life. Keep on at your day job and use every opportunity to take up gigs as well. Once you have an established name as a drummer and are earning well, you can always make the leap.

Once you have landed a gig, you need to prepare for it. Check out this article to help you along: http://drumlessonssingapore.com/preparing-for-a-live-concert-playing-the-drums/.