Drumming is an art form that requires dedication, practice, and a burning passion for the craft. Many drummers aspire to achieve excellence in their performances, often focusing solely on the end goal—a remarkable show at the end of the season or a prestigious competition. However, it's crucial to recognize that there is more to drumming than just those fleeting, often very short lasting, moments of fame. In this blog, we will explore the true essence of rudimental drumming, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the journey, building connections with fellow musicians, and finding fulfillment in the process.
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What do you define as excellence?
Excellence is often associated with a flawless performance that leaves the audience in awe. While striving for such moments is essential, true excellence goes beyond a mere 15 minutes on stage. It encompasses the tireless hours, days, weeks, and months of practice that precede that performance. By expanding our perspective, we understand that excellence is a kind of holistic pursuit, encompassing both the final outcome and the personal growth experienced along the way. It means recognizing that personal growth, resilience, and the acquisition of new knowledge and skills are all integral parts of the pursuit of excellence. Each step taken, each obstacle overcome, and each setback encountered becomes an opportunity for learning, adaptation, and self-discovery.
True excellence goes beyond a mere 15 minutes on stage.
High level drumming demands discipline and perseverance. So it’s essential to approach practice sessions with a sense of enjoyment and fulfillment, to not lose your dedication. (A while ago we also wrote a blog with 5 tips to become dedicated to practicing, you might be interested in that one as well). When you genuinely love what you do, every moment spent honing your skills becomes meaningful. The question is: how do you do that?
Multiple ways to enjoy the process of drumming
True fulfillment in drumming comes from investing your time and energy into what you love. By dedicating yourself to the craft, you cultivate a sense of purpose and accomplishment. As you overcome challenges and witness your growth, you develop a stronger sense of self and a deeper appreciation for the art of drumming. But that's easier said than genuinely believed at certain moments. There may be times when frustration arises due to an inability to play a particular piece or a perceived lack of progress. In such instances, it becomes essential to open your toolbox with multiple options to enjoy the process of drumming, to help yourself out of this setback.
As you overcome challenges and witness your growth, you develop a stronger sense of self and a deeper appreciation for the art of drumming.
One way to derive fulfillment is by cherishing the time spent with friends who share your passion. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals creates a support system that not only encourages personal growth but also offers a sense of camaraderie. The shared experiences, laughter, and mutual encouragement provide a source of motivation during challenging times. I personally experienced this a lot during my time at Jubal Drum & Bugle Corps and any other musical ensemble I played in.
Additionally, recognizing the support of family and friends can be a significant source of inspiration as well. Their belief in your talent and dedication can fuel your passion and remind you of the impact drumming has on those around you. Their encouragement and presence create a sense of purpose that extends beyond personal achievements, reinforcing the notion that drumming is not just an individual pursuit but a shared journey with your loved ones.
Ultimately, the key is to remember that while drumming may have its challenges, it is a multifaceted endeavor that offers numerous avenues for fulfillment. Embrace the support of your loved ones, cherish the camaraderie of your fellow drummers, and explore the vast possibilities within the world of drumming. By finding joy and purpose beyond individual progress, you can maintain a deep and unwavering dedication to your passion. Believe it or not, finding amusement and sharing laughter with your friends while rehearsing and reflecting on a silly mistake you've made, holds equal significance in nurturing your long-term journey toward excellence, just as much as the fleeting fame garnered from the final performance of a season. Shaping you as a musician and as an individual, the journey becomes as important as the destination,
Believe it or not, finding amusement and sharing laughter with your friends while rehearsing and reflecting on a silly mistake you've made, holds equal significance in nurturing your long-term journey toward excellence, just as much as the fleeting fame garnered from the final performance of a season.
All in all, I think that drumming is not just about the fleeting moments of fame or the pursuit of perfection in a limited timeframe. It is a lifelong journey filled with dedication, passion, and personal growth. By enjoying the process, embracing the camaraderie of fellow drummers, and finding fulfillment in your musical endeavors, you can truly unlock the essence of drumming. Remember, there's more to drumming than just showtime—embrace the journey and let your love for the activity propel you towards excellence.
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