Regardless of your motivation, learning the drums can be both exhilarating and frustrating. You crave a structured path,clear instruction, and the satisfaction of seeing progress. But where do you begin?
This review dives deep into Mike Lessons Online, a platform designed to empower aspiring drummers of all skill levels.Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your existing chops, Mike Lessons promises a comprehensive approach. But does it live up to the hype?
Within these pages, we’ll dissect the core elements of Mike Lessons, analyzing its curriculum, teaching style, and the all-important question: can it truly help you achieve your drumming goals? We’ll also explore the potential drawbacks to consider, ensuring you make an informed decision before embarking on your drumming journey.
A project focused on online drum instruction. It contains more than 60 well-organized courses with different numbers of lessons. Mike Johnston explains specific skills, hand and foot independence, and several drum techniques. You will learn how to play accurately, practice speed, tone, and groove. In addition to courses, you can use applications to practice paradiddles and rhythms. Mike also runs a drummer camp in Northern California for intensive drum classes.
You will learn how to:
COURSES are divided into 6 categories:
APPS
Mike Johnston started learning to play the drums when he was 5 years old. He studied privately with Pete Magadini and Will Kennedy for 15 years. Mike was touring with his band Simon Says all around the world. His drum lessons have become popular and he won the Modern Drummer Readers Poll award for Educator of the Year. Mike performed on the Late Show with David Letterman and the Fashionably Loud show on MTV.
Beginners, intermediate
Pop, rock, funk
Video lessons, practise tools
Mike Lessons boasts a curriculum designed to cater to a wide range of drumming experience levels. Beginners can establish a strong foundation through courses focusing on proper grip, posture, basic techniques, and essential rudiments.As you progress, the program delves into more intricate areas like developing independence (coordinating limbs), crafting dynamic fills, and mastering various grooves across different musical styles.
The focus on learning complete songs adds a practical element, allowing you to apply acquired skills while experiencing the joy of playing familiar music.
Mike Lessons adopts a clear and organized structure. The curriculum is divided into courses with progressive difficulty,ensuring a smooth learning curve. Each course includes video lessons, downloadable materials, and practice exercises with backing tracks. This structured approach provides a roadmap for your drumming development, keeping you motivated and focused.
A unique feature of Mike Lessons is the optional video feedback system. Submitting recordings of yourself playing allows Mike, the instructor, to offer personalized feedback, addressing your specific strengths and weaknesses. This personalized touch is a valuable asset often missing in online learning platforms.
Mike Lessons leverages online learning technology to deliver its program. The platform offers on-demand access to video lessons, downloadable materials, and practice tools. This flexibility allows you to learn at your own pace and convenience, practicing whenever your schedule permits. The platform is accessible from any device with an internet connection, making it perfect for busy lifestyles.
While Mike Lessons utilizes online tools effectively, it lacks features like interactive exercises or gamification elements that some learners might find engaging.
PROS
CONS
Mike Lessons Online provides a well-structured and comprehensive approach to learning drums. The focus on core techniques, practical application through songs, and the option for personalized feedback make it a valuable resource for aspiring drummers. While it might not delve deep into every musical genre, it equips you with the foundational skills necessary to explore various styles.
If you’re a self-motivated learner seeking a structured online program to build your drumming skills, Mike Lessons Online is definitely worth considering. However, if you crave real-time interaction with an instructor or require a platform heavy on interactive features, then exploring other options might be prudent.