Careers in Drumming

Drumming makes a great hobby. It has plenty of health benefits, in addition to simply being a fun way to pass the time. Regardless of what type of drums you prefer to bang on, the playful side of the craft can be maneuvered into an alternative career in drumming with some effort and persistence. There are many ways to step onto this path, though, if you are good at managing your time and feel you have the passion to excel. Luck may play a part in any career choice, but, as Oprah Winfrey once said, “Luck is preparation meeting opportunity.”

There are several opportunities for careers in drumming if you are willing to find your focus and work diligently. The beginning point is likely honing your skills so that you can demonstrate your abilities enough to convince people that you know what you are doing. Another primary step in building your career in drumming is to remember that variety is the spice of life. While some drummers may be satisfied with nightly gigs and touring, others may love drumming but do not wish to take that path. Drumming can lead the way into a career as a teacher, interactive drumming facilitator, video game consultant or a music producer. The understanding of different drums, from djembes and bongos to marching band drums and the differences in jazz or rock drum kits lends a expertise to any sort of drumming career that may evolve from your nightly jam sessions.

Some less obvious careers in drumming include:

• designing and/or creating drums
• becoming part of a military band
• working for a cruise ship band
• recording music for movies and shows
• writing about drumming for magazines, blogs, etc.

Take inventory of your skills that can lend a hand to your drumming dream. Think about where music is found, you may find a drumming career opportunity that suits your desires. As with any career goals, it is your dedication and motivation that will net the best results. You may need to first work as a freelancer while keeping your more stable income-generating sources. This is actually perfect, because it allows you the time to build up a reputation, network, and try out opportunities that appeal to you to see how they might work for you long-term.

Unsurprisingly many people with careers in drumming are not focused upon one area. Perhaps they teach as well as playing gigs at night. These days, drumming is becoming a widely accepted therapeutic tool, so if you have ever considered combining a love for drumming with an interest in counseling or psychology, that could be a way to share your skills with others. When thinking of the therapeutic angle, keep in mind that there are a wide range of opportunities and not all of them include returning to a formal learning environment. When considering careers in drumming, your imagination could be the only limit.