Alright! You’re fresh out of drum school, and the world is your oyster. Although you might not be able to pull off the same way as Neil Pert, you can still perform on the stage and in the studio. How can you get started in a drumming career?
We’ll discuss some career options you might want to explore in this article. It’s not easy to break into the music industry. With persistence and some creative thinking, you can make your luck. Let’s look at some possibilities.
Session Drummer
Okay, let’s get started with the ideal one. Are you aware of the amount of money a studio drummer can earn? If you want to hire one of these musicians, expect to pay $1500-2500 daily. But they make every penny of it.
A session drummer is a drummer called up by a recording studio to record a song. The session drummer is a drummer who shows up with his sticks and plays perfectly, every day and night, whatever the producers and songwriters require. This is not point-and-shoot drumming. It requires a lot of talent. Although this may seem like a dream job, it can be a great career choice.
Freelancing
A freelance drummer? Yes, it is possible! Although it might not pay as much as a large studio, musicians just starting in the field can benefit from the increased accessibility to music recording software and equipment.
It isn’t easy to reproduce drums digitally. Putting a Facebook page or an ad at your local music shop can help you find gigs and practice your skills as a session drummer.
Teaching
Music is meant to be shared. Teaching drumming is a reliable, consistent and respected way to make money. It is also extremely rewarding. It is not worth the effort if you don’t enjoy learning the drums. Passion is the only way to enjoy this activity.
It’s a great way to make a living and pass on your passion and love to the next generation. Mentorship can also be a wonderful way to share that bond. We can certainly say that about our MI instructors! Although teaching is the most reliable way to be a drummer, we know that most of you want to play in stadiums like Travis Barker.
Teaching drumming is an important job that must be done. However, you may be looking for other types of connections. This is another way to get into the industry.
Intern in a Studio
We’ll assume you know how to set up microphones and have probably used digital audio software while in school. These skills are transferable, and you can use them to make connections in the industry by thinking outside of your box.
Intern at a studio. You will be able to develop your musicianship and production skills and become a better drummer. You can position yourself to make industry connections that will help you land gigs and other opportunities.
Music Business
You might not be interested in microphones and software, but you are passionate about business. Another way to get into the music business is to work as an A&R rep, manager or other position. However, it requires a different skill set.
You will also contact people who might offer you gigs or record albums. There are many options when it comes to networking.