Dream of drumming like a pro?
Start free with our Drumming Essentials course. Go to your AppStore, download the Drum Coach app to get:
? 5 minutes of fun, daily exercises.
? A beginner-friendly approach to improve steadily.
? Engaging lessons that make learning easy and effective.
Expertly Crafting Rhythms: The Art of Drumming Techniques
Unlock the Power of Drumming Techniques: A Masterclass with Akhamie
Welcome to an enlightening journey into the world of drumming! Today, we delve deep into the essence of rhythm and discover how drumming techniques can transform your musical expression. Whether you’re an aspiring drummer or a seasoned artist, this exploration with Akhamie offers insights that resonate with everyone who feels the beat.
The Rhythm of Life: Who is Akhamie?
Akhamie, a dynamic force in the world of drumming, brings a unique blend of passion and precision to her craft. Born into a military family in Germany and raised across the United States, her life’s rhythm has been anything but ordinary. Her early exposure to diverse musical styles, coupled with a deep-seated love for the drums, sparked a journey of musical discovery that continues to this day.
From the disciplined beats of military bands to the spontaneous rhythms of jazz, Akhamie’s drumming techniques are as varied as her background. Now, as a dedicated mother and educator, she balances the vibrant energy of drumming with the gentle nuances of daily life, teaching us that rhythm is not just a part of music—it’s a part of us.
This content might also interest you: Beginner Drum Lessons: Tips for Success and Drum terminology: Your Drumming Reference Guide
Get your drumming to the next level in just 10 days ?
Find your perfect practice routine with Drum Coach with exercises tailored for all levels. With Drum Coach you get:
- Drums lessons crafted by Mariano Steimberg, professional drummer, and professor at Berklee College of Music.
- Unlock over 500 drum exercises and rudiments
- Start Free with the Drumming Essentials course. No fancy gear needed!
Dialogue with the Drums: An Interview with Akhamie
In an engaging Q&A session, Akhamie shares her insights on drumming, creativity, and the balance between tradition and innovation. Here are some highlights from our conversation:
Q: What inspired you to start drumming?
A: It was the pulse I felt in church as a child—the drums spoke to me like nothing else, “and I just knew, this is what I want to do, this is my voice” and so it was from there just getting involved in music in school and learning everything about the instrument. I started with an instructor and I feel like he was preparing me for the audition that is required to get into the military without me even knowing.
Q: How do you distinguish a good drummer from an amazing drummer?
A: “The real difference between a good drummer and an amazing one lies in the clarity and distinctiveness of their playing. Imagine how we recognize people’s voices; similarly, each drummer has a unique musical ‘voice’ that can be clearly heard in their playing. When you hear a drummer like Dave Weckl, you instantly know it’s him by the clear articulation and distinct style of his fills and rhythms. That clarity, that clean sound is what makes an amazing drummer stand out. They’re not just playing notes; they’re communicating through their instrument with a personal style that’s immediately recognizable.
To develop your own distinctive sound, it’s crucial to focus on sounding authentic—truly finding your own rhythm and style rather than mimicking others. After leaving the military, I embraced the freedom to explore and express my own musical identity. I practiced drum rudiments and polyrhythms, which are foundational, but I adapted them in my own way to develop a voice that is uniquely mine. This personal expression is what separates an amazing drummer from the rest. The most genuine thing you can do as a musician is to explore and cultivate your own sound.”
Q: Considering that 70% of potential drummers quit within the first year, how do you keep your students engaged?
A: “To keep students engaged, I link drum lessons to the music they already enjoy. By discussing their favorite songs and artists, I tailor lessons to resonate with their personal interests. For instance, we might analyze the drum patterns in a song they love, showing how the techniques they’re learning apply directly to music they admire. This approach keeps the lessons relevant and exciting, fostering a deeper appreciation and sustained enthusiasm for learning the drums.
Aspiring to greatness on the drums? Let Drum Coach show you how, with only 5 minutes of fun, daily practice. Watch your drumming transform swiftly!
Get ready to take your drumming to the next level. Get expert tips on coordination, drumming techniques, improvisation and more in the post titled “Charting Your Drumming Journey”.
Written by: Raul Rodrigues: CEO of Drumap, Drummer, Music School Director and Mariano Steimberg: Drum Professor at Berklee College of Music, Valencia Campus.
You may also find interesting:
- Comparing the best apps to learn drums
- How to Play the Hardest Drum Songs
- How to Read Drum Sheet Music Like a Pro
- The Student’s Guide to Drum Stick Sizes and how to choose them
Mastering the Beat: Actionable Drumming Tips from Akhamie
Akhamie not only plays the drums; she communicates through them. Her approach to drumming techniques is both educational and profoundly inspirational. Here are some actionable tips she shares for drummers seeking to enhance their skills:
- Practice with Purpose: Set clear goals for each practice session and focus on mastering one technique at a time.
- Listen and Learn: Always keep your ears open. Listening to different styles and drummers can unlock new rhythmic possibilities.
- Rudiments are Your Friends: Mastering the basics like rolls and paradiddles can dramatically improve your flexibility and speed.
- Play with Others: Music is a conversation. Play with other musicians to understand how drums fit within the broader context of a band.
Get your drumming to the next level in just 10 days ?
Find your perfect practice routine with Drum Coach with exercises tailored for all levels. With Drum Coach you get:
- Drums lessons crafted by Mariano Steimberg, professional drummer, and professor at Berklee College of Music.
- Unlock over 500 drum exercises and rudiments
- Start Free with the Drumming Essentials course. No fancy gear needed!
Tips from Akhamie to content creators
Building Your Brand on Instagram
- Define Your Niche: Akhamie stresses the importance of finding your unique voice in the drumming community. “Focus on what sets you apart, whether it’s your drumming style, educational content, or personal drumming stories. Your niche is your signature.”
- Consistent and Quality Content: “Consistency is key on social media. Regular posting keeps your audience engaged and helps build a loyal following. Quality should never be compromised for quantity, though. Ensure each post offers value—whether it’s through insightful tips, thrilling performances, or inspiring stories.”
Getting Noticed by Brands and Sponsors
- Showcase a Professional Image: “First impressions matter. Make sure your Instagram profile is professional and clearly reflects your drumming identity. Use a clean, organized layout and high-quality images.”
- Highlight Your Gear: “Brands are more likely to notice you if you use their products. Tag them in your posts, share detailed reviews of their gear, and demonstrate how you incorporate their products into your performance. It’s a win-win situation—you get content, and they get exposure.”
Content Creation: What Works?
- Educational Content: “Share tips, tutorials, and practice routines. Educational content is highly valued as it helps others grow. It positions you as an authority in your field.”
- Behind-the-Scenes: “Give your followers a peek behind the curtains. Whether it’s your practice sessions, gig preparations, or even your creative process, people love seeing the ‘real’ side of your music journey.”
- Get ideas from others: “There are numerous videos out there that have already garnered millions of views or even gone viral. Draw inspiration from these successful examples and be sure to infuse them with your unique twist. Additionally, stay updated by following content creators who specialize in social media trends. Implement their tips to enhance your strategy and boost your online presence.”
Conclusion: A Rhythmic Reflection
As our session with Akhamie concludes, we’re reminded that drumming is more than just a skill—it’s a means of expression, a form of communication, and a pathway to connection. Her life’s work underscores the importance of perseverance, creativity, and, most importantly, the joy of rhythm.
Whether on stage or in the quiet moments of teaching, Akhamie’s journey through the world of drumming techniques encourages us all to find our beat and express it boldly. After all, in the symphony of life, each of us has a unique rhythm to share.
Keep the beat alive, and let the rhythms you create inspire not just your music, but also your life.
Get your drumming to the next level in just 10 days ?
Find your perfect practice routine with Drum Coach with exercises tailored for all levels. With Drum Coach you get:
- Drums lessons crafted by Mariano Steimberg, professional drummer, and professor at Berklee College of Music.
- Unlock over 500 drum exercises and rudiments
- Start Free with the Drumming Essentials course. No fancy gear needed!
Want to know more about influencers and creators, check out the following stories on our blog:
- Meshem Jackson: A Pro’s Life Playing Drums
- Interview with Francis: A Drummer’s Evolution – Tips & Tales
- Drum Lessons Unveiled with Ciara, Master Drummer and Educator
- Mastering the drums Rudiger’s Percussive Techniques
- Learn Drums with José Cortijo: from Passion to Pro drummer
More about Akhamie music, check out her Instagram account and YouTube channel and follow us on our Instagrams as @drumap.studio for more exciting content.
