Most people are often unsure what they should practice and then end up not practicing at all. The answer to what you should be practicing is actually very simple; sight reading.
Sight reading is one of the most useful skills. There are multiple benefits that come from being a good sight reader, to name a few: you can practice from any drum exercise book or magazine, you can compose and write out your own drum parts. If you can sight read one instrument, then skills can be translated to reading another instrument.
I've found that in order to work in theatre/function bands/cruises I need to be able to sight read to a very high standard. Lots of musicals require you to play percussion and often play multiple parts in the score, particularly if it’s in an orchestra.
In the last month I have been practicing my sight reading more than ever. As a result; my drum vocabulary has greatly expanded, I'm getting more job offers and I'm able to play more advanced parts/songs.
If you’re looking for a book to practice you sight reading from I recommend Modern Reading Text in 4/4 by Louie Bellson.
Thanks for reading I hope this has been helpful!
Simon
Sight reading is one of the most useful skills. There are multiple benefits that come from being a good sight reader, to name a few: you can practice from any drum exercise book or magazine, you can compose and write out your own drum parts. If you can sight read one instrument, then skills can be translated to reading another instrument.
I've found that in order to work in theatre/function bands/cruises I need to be able to sight read to a very high standard. Lots of musicals require you to play percussion and often play multiple parts in the score, particularly if it’s in an orchestra.
In the last month I have been practicing my sight reading more than ever. As a result; my drum vocabulary has greatly expanded, I'm getting more job offers and I'm able to play more advanced parts/songs.
If you’re looking for a book to practice you sight reading from I recommend Modern Reading Text in 4/4 by Louie Bellson.
Thanks for reading I hope this has been helpful!
Simon