any drummers in the house

I have been a drummer since 10. Played in every kind of band from country to jazz to metal to alternative and yes pop. Taught myself . I now teach on the side and see how fast the students accelerate with proper guidence so I would suggest a teacher . One caveat however ; get one that does not teach old school but rather a teacher that is still active and possibly connected to whatever genre you would like to emulate. I was a Peart fan and spent 7 years day in and day out learning his material chop for chop. This was my school . Also , metal and rock drummers typically hold their sticks straight from wrist to fingertip while many jazz drummers lay the left stick across the palm. See what feels natural to you. Good luck and stick with it . Drumming is difficult to master.

I used to be a hot-sh*t drummer...now I'm a hobbyist who thinks he's better than he really is :)

Having studied drums and percussion in public schools and privately, I'd have to say there's no substitute for one on one instruction. I'd search out an instructor. Check local colleges with music schools. Often there are students who teach on the side to make some money. If that's not an option, go to a local music store (instruments/drums), and ask if there are any private instructors they can turn you on to. While you're there, they can probably suggest some how-to videos, but this will be a distinct step down from a real teacher.

These days, electronic drums offer a very good alternative to acoustic drums because they are more compact, quieter (use headphones) and feel very close to the real thing. Check out e-drums by Roland or Pintech. I use both in my home kit. You can often find used sets on E-Bay, but do your homework first. My acoustic set of vintage Ludwig Vistalites haven't been played in nearly two decades, but the e-drums fit into my limited space and I can connect a CD player through the "brain" unit and play along with whatever I wish (love to play "Physical Graffiti" from beginning to end!).

Have fun.

There are many internet sites and video tapes to get yuo started. I agree with finding a good instructor also, but only if you are going to stcik with it.

Beat those skins man!

Check out the Percussive Arts Society PAS.ORG Every drummer should be a member. The yearly convention should not be missed. What a way to tune up your ears for this hobby.

i used to be a drummer (still jam a little). started in 1961 as the drummer boy for my grade school play. grew up playing beatles and rolling stones until the hard rock days then played jimi hendrix, deep purple, black sabbath stuff. then got into the blues playing in night clubs in the 70's.
there are so many drum vendors out there. i have used: ludwig, slingerland, rogers, sonor, and lately Drum Works.
i have played on a few electronic drum kits and didn't like them. they just don't feel like the real thing. I agree with most of the above people, get one on one instruction to learn the basics: drum rolls, how to read music, carry a beat, etc... then branch out on your own playing with cd's at home to copy what the drummer on the song is doing. i would suggest purchasing a used set of drums with 2 or 3 cymbals (with also a high hat) and start practicing. you can always sell them for what you paid for them.
i have to admit, playing music in front of a few thousand people (or even smaller), is an experience you will never forget!!!

Been playing for 12 years or so... definately recommend learning the basics.. ie a good teacher. If you dont plan to play in a band you may not need to learn to read music, but it doesnt hurt. Get yourself a nice set of drums.. used or new.. you can buy so many nice kits these days. Definately wear earplugs unless you dont mind saying "what" all them time.. drums are loud. Good videos... I like Dave Weckl's video back to basics.. good informative stuff on stick control, the proper grip, setting up and tuning your drum set, good practice routines and playing some grooves. I personally was mostly self taught over the years. I have however been a student of music and had teachers that were helpful. Playing and practicing along with watching other drummers play a kit is very helpful. Be patient and remember playing loud is not always playing well.. and faster does not mean louder!! Have fun and dont try to play anything that Danny Carey or Carter Beauford play.. you will lose your mind!
Joe
Custom Audio LLC

thanks guys.