Despite the fact that many people tend to think that if they do not learn a musical instrument from very young ages, they will not learn it at all, at least as far as drumming is concerned, things do not work this way. You can start learning this musical instrument at any age, and if you do it as an adult, there are actually more benefits.
First, it is not recommended that children under the age of 11-12 start learning this instrument, unless they show extraordinary skills. A child does not have the necessary maturity and patience to approach such a complex musical instrument. It is known that the little ones get bored quickly, and, although very enthusiastic at first, after a few chaotic moves and the attempt to make more complex exercises, they will realize that execution and coordination failures feel not that great and they will not carry on any further. Their interest in this instrument disappears quite quickly and it is nothing unusual about this, considering that, at such an age, the power of concentration and perseverance is still at an early stage, and it can be very difficult to understand and study repeatedly the exercises required to learn drumming.
Another aspect that makes learning drums not suitable for small children is related to their height. A child who does not have the necessary height cannot physically reach all the components of a percussion system. It is particularly challenging for them to get to the pedal of the big drum and of the cymbal.
Learning drums also involves a physical and intellectual effort. Drumming activates both brain hemispheres, which implies an intense intellectual effort that includes the understanding of rhythmic formulas, as well as coordinating hands and feet.
In the case of adults, none of these issues represents a problem. A popular Englishman quote says that the distance between you and your dreams is called “action.” You have all the time in the world to learn how to play drums, even if you are an adult.
Some other benefits that make drumming a great activity for adults
There are many studies about the benefits of drumming to the brain. Music keeps your mind alert, which improves memory and concentration. At the same time, music and rhythm play a very important role in reducing stress, increasing productivity, developing creativity and improving self-confidence. Start practicing on a snare drum.
Playing drums teaches you to be disciplined. Studying percussions can be akin to the learning of a new language, and for this reason the process can often be challenging. One of the qualities that musicians possess is discipline. It is impossible to become a pro without a very good discipline. You have to schedule a daily routine to practice and stick to it no matter what.
Music also helps people in various social situations. It often manages to create personal bonds, and developing a good understanding of music is also useful for improving communication skills. Moreover, it will help you acquire new skills of cooperation, time management, concentration and listening. Self-expression will also reach new levels and you will get rid of certain inhibitions.