The Complete Idiot's Guide to Playing Drums, 2nd Edition (Paperback)

by Michael Miller (Author)
Key Phrases: local drum shop, drum dealer, two small toms, Hal Blaine, Drum Tip, The Least You Need (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Review
This book provides a thorough overview of the history and theory of drums and percussion instruments -- Modern Dummer Magazine, July 2004

Product Description
You can't beat this one for learning the basics!

This book covers everything the aspiring drummer needs to know-from an overview of drums and percussion history and theory; to information on purchasing, tuning, and maintaining drums; to basic music notation, rhythm, and time signatures; to snare drum fundamentals; playing a complete drum set; and basic beats for every style of music. In addition, this newly revised edition contains an audio CD featuring all exercises and solos from the book, tuning examples, and play along tracks.

€ Audio CD included
€ According to a Gallup survey, there are over 62 million amateur musicians in the U.S.
€ Drums are the third most popular instrument among amateur musicians

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Product Details

• Paperback: 320 pages
• Publisher: Alpha; 2nd edition (January 6, 2004)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 159257162X
• ISBN-13: 978-1592571628
• Product Dimensions: 10.7 x 8.4 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.5 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars See all reviews (14 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #106,369 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

48 of 49 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An excellent guide for beginners and experts alike, August 24, 2002

By	Rex Marksmanson "HEYO!" (Long Island, New York) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Complete Idiot's Guide to Playing Drums (Paperback)

The decision to actually pick up the sticks and sit behind your very own drum kit is a big step to say the least. What seems like an easy instrument to learn becomes one of the most complex and physically demanding instruments ever. But don't let this introduction mislead you, drums have become my life, and if you dedicate the time and get going you'll soon realize the same. Now when I first started there were a few things I was never without, my sticks, my snare drum and "The Complete Idiots Guide To: Playing Drums", yes this book was (and still is) that important to me.

Like I mentioned, the life of a drummer is a tough and often confusing one, but this book seems to sort everything out for you. Michael Miller's writing is not only extremely helpful but an entertaining read as well because he's always throwing in little jokes here and there. The guide itself is broken down very simple, with every chapter you learn more more such as what drums to buy, what sticks to look at, how to maintain and tune your kit, and all the key terms necessary for a successful drummer. In the later chapters you're slowly introduced to drum sheet music, all of the 26 percussion rudiments, and page after of drum tabs and sheet music. Also covered are the different drumming styles such as rock, jazz, blues and more. Miller always stresses (as do I) the importance of having a teacher, and how they can expand your understanding more than anything.

I only actually had one small problem with the book, well to tell you the truth it's more with the author himself. Miller refers to Drum Works drums as the "top of the line" and "the best you can get". Yes, Drum Works do make incredibly impressive drums, but to call them the best would be unfair, so for all those new drummers out there don't Mr. Miller's love afair with Drum Works confuse you, there are many companies out there who make drums just as good or even better than Drum Works. Overall however, this isn't a complaint about the book, but more of an observation so take it for what it's worth.

So, if you're seriously considering becoming a drummer make sure to have "The Complete Idiots Guide To: Playing Drums" by your side, it will help you like no other book can.

32 of 32 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A wonderful book for beginning to intermediate drummers., February 13, 2001

By A Customer

This review is from: Complete Idiot's Guide to Playing Drums (Paperback)

This is a well written book with great advice. Having been a drummer for a few years, I thought this book would be a joke but was pleasantly surprised. Not only does the author cover the technical aspects of percussion (i.e. standard rudiments, rock and jazz grooves, tuning tips, etc..) but the interviews are wonderful too. It's a treat to get advice from a legendary drummer such as Hal Blain. Don't pass this little gem up. Michael Miller did his homework and offers great advice for the novice (I'm not a novice and learned a thing or two). Enjoy!

17 of 17 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent, December 24, 2004

By	Randy Given (Manchester, CT USA) - See all my reviews (TOP 500 REVIEWER)    (REAL NAME)

This review is from: Complete Idiot's Guide to Playing Drums (Paperback)

I got the Dummies title first, which is usually the case. However, it was very disappointing. I then checked out the Idiot's Guide title. It was just what I was looking for.

It has all the necessary information and is not too sparse or too thick on any areas. Definitely recommended for people wanting to get started in drumming.