It’s a fact: playing the drums makes you happy!
Confucius once said: “Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without.” And the latest scientific studies agree, especially when it comes to playing the drums! Research by the Royal College of Music concludes that drumming can have a positive impact on mental health – reducing depression by 38%, dropping anxiety by 20%, and improving mental wellbeing by 16%. Let’s put it this way: the next time your neighbours holler to keep it down, you can tell them they’ll actually be happier if they start playing too! Here are a few reasons why…
1 It’s Fun!
Music is powerful. But there’s just something about the drums that transcends beyond the rhythm, and the melody, and is simply more… fun. It’s why legendary artist Phil Collins says “I’m not a singer who plays a bit of drums, I’m a drummer who sings a bit.” Or why Hall of Fame NFL running back Walter Payton said “I wanted to be a professional drummer”.
2 It’s Creative
There’s no “right” way or “wrong” way to build a groove, fill, or solo. Playing the drums is all about exploring your own creativity and putting it into action! Taylor Hawkins of the Foo Fighters says: “The one thing I do know is that I’m the best Taylor Hawkins drummer there is, and that is all I can hope to be. And when it comes to music, musicianship and skill, there is no such thing as better or worse because so much is personal opinion, and I can see that now.”
3 It’s Social
Drumming is a great way to meet other people from all walks of life attend drum camps, join an online drum community, jam with friends, join a band, perform locally, meet new people, and build lifelong friendships. Music is a global language that everyone should be a part of – and playing the drums is a great way to be a part of the conversation!
4 It’s Challenging
We love a challenge whether you’re struggling with a new technique, learning a new groove, or playing a new style of music. There’s always another challenge around the corner and drummers are always ready to take it on. It’s been said that drummers are smarter than everyone, and maybe we’re harder working too!
5 It’s Healthy
More than relieving stress and being an excellent mental challenge, drumming is also great for your physical fitness with some drummers burning up to 400 calories per hour while performing, and also giving you an excellent Incentive to stay in shape for those shows!
Travis Barker of Blink 182 says “I don’t play comfortably if I’m tired or if I don’t feel well. That’s always my goal to make sure my stamina’s up, my chops are up.”