Table of Contents

Total Drummer Review

Total drummer review

Total Drummer offers a comprehensive online learning platform for aspiring drummers of all experience levels. Whether you’re a complete beginner picking up sticks for the first time or a seasoned player looking to refine your skills, Total Drummer has something to offer. This review dives into the content, structure, pricing, and overall value of their online lessons.

Basic info

Who is this course for?

 

Total Drummer online lessons cater to a broad range of aspiring drummers, with options for various experience levels and interests:

  • Beginners: Total Drummer offers fundamental courses that get you started from scratch, teaching proper technique, grip, posture, and basic drumming concepts. You don’t even need a full drum set initially – a practice pad or even your knees can work for these initial lessons.

  • Intermediate Drummers: If you have some experience playing but want to improve your skills, Total Drummer provides a variety of courses focusing on specific genres, techniques like reading drum notation, and improvisation.

  • Advanced Drummers: Even seasoned drummers can benefit from Total Drummer’s library. They offer advanced courses to refine skills, explore new styles, and potentially learn from professional drummers.

Overall, Total Drummer is a good fit for anyone who wants to learn drums at their own pace and explore various drumming styles with the flexibility of online learning.

Content and structure

Total Drummer boasts a vast library of courses, categorized by skill level (beginner, intermediate, advanced) and genre (rock, blues, funk, etc.). This allows you to tailor your learning path to your specific goals. Here’s a breakdown of the content and structure:

Beginner Courses

  • Getting Started: These foundational courses cover the basics of drum set up, proper posture and grip, rudiments (essential drumming patterns), and simple beats. You’ll learn how to navigate the drum kit and develop a solid foundation for future drumming endeavors.
  • Practice Makes Progress: Beginner courses often incorporate practice routines with clear instructions and play-along tracks at various tempos. This allows you to solidify concepts learned in the lessons and build your drumming stamina.

Intermediate Courses

  • Genre Exploration: Once you have the fundamentals down, Total Drummer offers a deep dive into specific genres.Learn the signature grooves, fills, and stylistic nuances of rock, blues, funk, jazz, and more.
  • Skill Development: Intermediate courses delve deeper into specific drumming techniques like paradiddles, flam accents, and double bass drumming. You’ll also find lessons on reading drum notation, allowing you to tackle more complex rhythms.

Advanced Courses

  • Advanced Techniques: Experienced drummers can push their boundaries with courses focusing on advanced fills,complex polyrhythms, and soloing techniques.
  • Masterclasses: Learn from the best! Total Drummer occasionally features courses led by professional drummers,offering insights into their approach, signature styles, and insider tips.

Course Delivery and Learning Style

Total Drummer online lessons are primarily delivered through pre-recorded videos, featuring expert instructors demonstrating techniques and guiding you through exercises. The platform utilizes high-quality video production, ensuring clear visuals and detailed explanations.

In addition to video lessons, some courses may include downloadable resources such as practice routines in PDF format,drum notation for specific songs, and play-along backing tracks. These supplementary materials further enhance the learning experience.

Subscription vs. Individual Courses

Total Drummer offers two pricing options:

  • Individual Courses: You can purchase specific courses a la carte, allowing you to focus on targeted skills or explore a particular genre. This is a good option if you have a clear learning goal in mind. Prices start from around $1.92 per course.
  • Total Drummer Academy Membership: For a monthly fee, you gain access to their entire library of courses,including new releases. The membership also unlocks additional benefits like weekly live lessons, instructor feedback opportunities, and access to an online drumming community. This option is ideal if you want comprehensive learning and ongoing engagement.

Pros and cons

PROS

  • Extensive course library: Total Drummer offers a vast collection of courses catering to all skill levels and musical interests. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, you’ll find courses to suit your needs.
  • Structured learning: The courses are well-organized, with clear progression from foundational skills to more advanced techniques. This ensures a logical and efficient learning experience.
  • High-quality video production: The lessons utilize professional videography, making it easy to follow the instructor’s demonstrations and grasp the techniques visually.
  • Variety of learning resources: In addition to video lessons, many courses include downloadable practice routines,drum notation for songs, and play-along tracks. This provides additional support for solidifying concepts and applying them in practice.
  • Flexibility: As an online platform, Total Drummer offers the flexibility to learn at your own pace and schedule. You can access the courses anytime, anywhere, and revisit them as needed.
  • Membership benefits: The Total Drummer Academy membership unlocks additional features like weekly live lessons,instructor feedback opportunities, and access to an online drumming community. These features can enhance your learning experience and provide motivation.
  • Cost-effective options: Both individual course purchases and the membership offer affordable options compared to traditional in-person lessons.

CONS

  • Limited interaction: The online learning environment may not offer the same level of interaction and social engagement as learning in a group setting.
  • Requires self-discipline: Online learning requires a strong sense of self-discipline and time management to stay motivated and consistent with your practice routine.
  • Limited focus on technical aspects: While the courses cover proper technique, they may not be as in-depth on posture correction or addressing specific physical limitations compared to working with a live instructor.
  • Not ideal for everyone: Online learning might not be suitable for everyone. Some people may prefer the in-person interaction and guidance of a traditional drum teacher.

The verdict

8/10

Total Drummer online lessons are a compelling option for aspiring drummers seeking a flexible and comprehensive online learning platform. With a vast library of courses, clear instruction, and a variety of learning resources, Total Drummer can help you achieve your drumming goals, from taking your first steps behind the kit to refining your skills as an experienced player.

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