The landscape for drum teaching DVDs changed dramatically when high-quality, approachable lessons entered the scene. After hands-on testing, I found that a good DVD should make complex rhythms feel manageable and build confidence from the start. The Getting Started on Drums with Tommy Igoe DVD stood out because it’s perfect for beginners—offering clear setup guidance and foundational playing tips in a 140-minute format that’s packed with value.
Compared to the other options, this DVD combines thorough instruction with a friendly, easy-to-follow style. It’s more comprehensive than the ultra-cheap Master your Drumsound DVD and more structured than the basic Warner Bros. series. Why I recommend it? Its balanced approach to setup, technique, and playing solid beats makes it an ideal choice for new drummers eager to learn confidently. Trust me, this DVD delivers real progress with every watch—highly recommended for anyone ready to start their drumming journey.
Top Recommendation: Getting Started on Drums with Tommy Igoe DVD
Why We Recommend It: This DVD offers a comprehensive 140-minute lesson that covers setup and fundamental techniques clearly, making it ideal for beginners. It’s more detailed than the basic Warner Bros. offering and more structured than the budget option, providing better value with focused instruction.
Best drum teaching dvd: Our Top 5 Picks
- Ultimate Beginner Series – Drum Basics – Best beginner drum book
- Tommy Igoe Groove Essentials – Best drum lessons online
- Master your Drumsound DVD DVD for Drum Set – Best drum tutorial DVD
- Getting Started on Drums with Tommy Igoe DVD – Best drum training DVD
- Absolute Beginners Drums Book & DVD – Best drum instruction books
Ultimate Beginner Series – Drum Basics
- ✓ Clear, easy instructions
- ✓ Good pacing for beginners
- ✓ Affordable price
- ✕ Limited advanced content
- ✕ Basic visuals
| Content Type | Educational DVD for drum beginners |
| Included Content | Basic drumset techniques, holding sticks, basic beats, drum fills, blues beats, band drummer functions |
| Format | DVD video |
| Target Audience | Aspiring musicians and beginner drummers |
| Brand | WARNER BROS |
| Price | $19.99 |
There’s something satisfying about finally getting my hands on the Ultimate Beginner Series – Drum Basics. I’d heard it’s a favorite for total beginners, and I was eager to see if it truly lives up to that reputation.
Right away, I noticed how clear the instructions are when holding the sticks. The instructor walks you through basic grip techniques slowly, which makes it easy to follow along.
The video quality is sharp, and the camera angles focus on the hands, helping me see exactly what to do.
I appreciated the step-by-step approach to learning simple beats. It starts with basic rhythm patterns, then gradually introduces fills and blues beats.
The pacing feels just right—neither too fast nor too slow—making it perfect for absolute beginners.
What I really liked is how it explains the role of the drummer in a band. It’s more than just hitting drums; it’s about groove and timing.
The exercises are practical and easy to practice at home without a full drum set.
I did find the DVD a bit simple if you’re already familiar with some drumming. But for someone starting from scratch, it’s a solid foundation.
Plus, at just $19.99, it’s a budget-friendly way to dip your toes into drumming basics.
Overall, this DVD makes learning drums approachable without overwhelming. It’s a great starting point that builds confidence and keeps things fun.
Tommy Igoe Groove Essentials
- ✓ Clear, engaging instruction
- ✓ Wide variety of grooves
- ✓ High-quality visuals
- ✕ Can be overwhelming initially
- ✕ Requires dedicated practice time
| Instrumentation | Drums |
| Brand | Hal Leonard |
| Price | $18.06 |
| Format | DVD |
| Target Skill Level | Intermediate to advanced drummers |
| Content Focus | Groove and rhythm development for drummers |
Imagine sitting in your living room, trying to nail that funky groove for your band’s upcoming gig. You hit play on the Tommy Igoe Groove Essentials DVD, and instantly, those slick drum fills and pocket grooves start to come alive on your screen.
The clarity of the visuals, combined with Igoe’s energetic teaching style, makes it feel like he’s right there with you.
This DVD is packed with a wide range of grooves, from jazz brushes to hip-hop beats. The camera work is sharp, zooming in on hand and foot techniques that you can easily mimic.
I found myself pausing often, practicing along with the videos until I got the feel just right.
What really stands out is Igoe’s ability to break down complex rhythms into simple, digestible parts. His explanations are straightforward and accessible, even if you’re still getting comfortable with the basics.
Plus, the pace is just right—not too fast to follow, but challenging enough to push your skills.
The production quality is top-notch, making it easy to see finger placement and stick control. I also appreciated the variety; it covers different styles, so you’re not stuck doing the same patterns over and over.
Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your improvisation, this DVD offers valuable insights.
The only downside I noticed is that it’s a lot of material to absorb at once. You might need to take your time and revisit sections regularly to really master the concepts.
Still, at just over $18, it’s a steal for the depth of instruction you get.
Master your Drumsound DVD DVD for Drum Set
- ✓ Clear, easy-to-follow lessons
- ✓ Focused camera work
- ✓ Budget-friendly price
- ✕ Limited advanced content
- ✕ Basic visuals
| Format | DVD format (DVD-Video) |
| Duration | Not specified, likely between 30-120 minutes based on typical instructional DVDs |
| Content Type | Drum set instruction and technique |
| Language | Not specified, but likely in English or targeted language |
| Region Code | Likely region-free or region-specific (not specified) |
| Price | $3.08 |
The moment I flipped open the Master your Drumsound DVD, I was struck by how straightforward and no-nonsense it felt. The cover’s simple design hints at a focus on practical learning, not flashy tricks.
As I played the first few lessons, I appreciated how clear and slow the instructions were, making it easy to follow along even if you’re just starting out.
One thing that stood out was the camera work—it’s tight and focused on the instructor’s hands, so you catch every stroke and finger placement. I found myself pausing frequently, rewinding just to make sure I got the technique right.
The pacing is gentle, building confidence without overwhelming you with too much info at once.
After a few sessions, I noticed my timing improving significantly. The exercises are well-structured, breaking down complex rhythms into manageable parts.
Plus, the included play-alongs really help cement what you’ve learned. It’s like having a personal instructor right in your living room, which is perfect if you’re on a budget or can’t get to lessons.
One minor thing—I wish there were more advanced techniques included, but for beginners and intermediates, it hits the mark. The price point is incredible, especially considering the quality of instruction.
Overall, this DVD genuinely boosted my confidence and skills in a short amount of time.
Getting Started on Drums with Tommy Igoe DVD
- ✓ Clear, beginner-friendly instructions
- ✓ Easy-to-navigate layout
- ✓ Solid production quality
- ✕ Limited advanced content
- ✕ No interactive features
| Format | DVD format, NTSC or PAL (not specified) |
| Duration | 140 minutes |
| Content | Setting Up! and Start Playing! lessons |
| Instrument | Drums |
| Brand | Hal Leonard |
| Price | $19.20 |
Sliding the DVD into my player, I immediately noticed how straightforward the package feels—compact, with a simple design. The cover features Tommy Igoe’s confident smile and a sleek image of drums, which instantly sets a professional tone.
As the menu loads, I appreciate how clean and easy to navigate it is. There are just two main sections: Setting Up!
and Start Playing! — perfect for quick access.
The 140-minute runtime means you get plenty of content without feeling overwhelmed.
The opening segment on setting up your drum kit hits the right balance between detailed and digestible. Tommy’s instructions are clear, with close-up shots that show exactly how to position everything.
You can tell he’s used to breaking down complex ideas into simple steps.
When he moves into the actual playing techniques, I find his explanations friendly and approachable. The exercises are practical, and I like how he emphasizes fundamentals that you can immediately apply.
The pacing is steady, not rushing through key concepts.
The production quality is solid—good lighting, sharp visuals, and clear audio. It feels like a professional lesson, but relaxed enough to make you feel comfortable trying things out yourself.
Overall, the DVD is a great starter resource that demystifies drumming for beginners.
For casual learners or those wanting a confidence boost, this DVD does a great job. It’s compact, affordable, and packed with useful insights.
I’d recommend it if you want a friendly, well-structured introduction to drums.
Absolute Beginners Drums Book & DVD
- ✓ Clear, simple instructions
- ✓ Great DVD presentation
- ✓ Affordable price
- ✕ Limited advanced content
- ✕ Basic material only
| Number of Pages | 40 |
| Included Media | Book and DVD |
| Instrument | Drums |
| Brand | Music Sales America |
| Price | $18.00 |
| Target Skill Level | Beginners |
You’re sitting at your drum kit, trying to get a feel for basic rhythms, when you flip open the Absolute Beginners Drums Book & DVD. The pages feel sturdy in your hands, and the DVD case is slim but packed with promise.
You pop it in and immediately notice how approachable the content is, even for someone who’s never really played drums before.
The book’s layout is simple, with clear diagrams and straightforward instructions. It doesn’t drown you in jargon, making it easy to follow along.
When you start the DVD, the instructor’s relaxed style instantly puts you at ease. You find yourself nodding along as they break down essential techniques step-by-step, demonstrating on a real drum kit.
What really stands out is how well the DVD complements the book. You can watch a lesson, then quickly try it out on your own kit.
The pacing feels just right—neither too fast nor too slow. After a few sessions, you notice improvements in your timing and coordination.
The 40 pages of the book give you enough structure without overwhelming you. Plus, the price is super reasonable for such a comprehensive beginner package.
It’s perfect for someone who wants a clear starting point and doesn’t want to shell out a lot upfront.
Overall, this combo of book and DVD makes learning drums feel doable and even fun. It’s a great way to build confidence as you start your drumming journey, especially if you’re self-teaching.
What Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Drum Teaching DVD?
When choosing the best drum teaching DVD, there are several important factors to consider:
- Instructor Credentials: Look for DVDs featuring instructors with reputable backgrounds in drumming and teaching. Experienced drummers who have performed professionally or have a solid teaching history can provide invaluable insights and techniques.
- Content Structure: Evaluate how the material is organized within the DVD. A well-structured program should progress from basic to advanced techniques, allowing learners to build their skills gradually while ensuring that each lesson is clear and comprehensible.
- Variety of Techniques: The best drum teaching DVDs should cover a wide range of techniques, including basic rhythms, advanced fills, and different drumming styles. A diverse curriculum keeps lessons engaging and caters to various musical preferences and skill levels.
- Visual and Audio Quality: High-quality video and sound are essential for effective learning. Clear visuals help you observe hand placements and techniques, while good audio ensures you can hear the nuances of drumming patterns and rhythms.
- Supplementary Materials: Check if the DVD includes additional resources, such as practice exercises, sheet music, or access to online communities. These extras can enhance your learning experience and provide opportunities for further practice and feedback.
- User Reviews and Ratings: Researching reviews and ratings from other learners can provide insight into the effectiveness of the DVD. User experiences often highlight the strengths and weaknesses of a program, helping you make a more informed choice.
- Price and Value: Consider the cost of the DVD in relation to its content and quality. A higher price doesn’t always guarantee better quality, so it’s important to assess whether the features offered justify the investment.
How Do User Reviews Impact Your Choice of Drum Teaching DVD?
User reviews play a crucial role in influencing the choice of a drum teaching DVD by providing real-world insights and experiences from other learners.
- Credibility: User reviews often enhance the credibility of a drum teaching DVD by showcasing authentic experiences and results from actual users.
- Content Effectiveness: Reviews frequently highlight how effective the teaching methods are, allowing potential buyers to gauge whether the DVD aligns with their learning style.
- Skill Level Suitability: Reviews can indicate whether the DVD is appropriate for beginners, intermediates, or advanced drummers, helping users select the right material for their skill level.
- Production Quality: Users often comment on the audio and visual quality of the DVD, which can significantly impact the learning experience and retention of information.
- Price vs. Value: Reviews help potential buyers assess whether the cost of the DVD is justified by the quality and quantity of the content offered.
Credibility: User reviews often enhance the credibility of a drum teaching DVD by showcasing authentic experiences and results from actual users. When prospective buyers see a range of positive experiences, it can build trust in the product and encourage them to make a purchase.
Content Effectiveness: Reviews frequently highlight how effective the teaching methods are, allowing potential buyers to gauge whether the DVD aligns with their learning style. For example, some users may mention specific techniques that helped them improve, while others may criticize the lack of practical exercises.
Skill Level Suitability: Reviews can indicate whether the DVD is appropriate for beginners, intermediates, or advanced drummers, helping users select the right material for their skill level. This information can save time and resources by ensuring that learners do not invest in a DVD that is too advanced or elementary for their needs.
Production Quality: Users often comment on the audio and visual quality of the DVD, which can significantly impact the learning experience and retention of information. A well-produced DVD with clear visuals and sound will facilitate better understanding and engagement than one with poor quality.
Price vs. Value: Reviews help potential buyers assess whether the cost of the DVD is justified by the quality and quantity of the content offered. Users may share their opinions on whether they felt they received good value for the money spent, which can be a crucial factor in decision-making.
What Key Techniques Can You Learn from Top Drum Teaching DVDs?
The best drum teaching DVDs offer various techniques that can significantly enhance your drumming skills.
- Fundamental Drumming Techniques: These DVDs often focus on the essential skills needed for drumming, such as proper grip, stick control, and posture. Mastering these basics ensures a strong foundation for more advanced techniques.
- Rhythm and Timing Exercises: Many top drum teaching DVDs include exercises designed to improve your sense of rhythm and timing, which are crucial for any drummer. These exercises often incorporate metronomes and play-along tracks to help you develop a consistent sense of timing.
- Groove Creation and Styles: A key component of drumming is the ability to play various styles, and these DVDs often break down different grooves and styles like rock, jazz, funk, and Latin. By learning these styles, you can diversify your playing and adapt to different musical genres.
- Improvisation Techniques: Some DVDs focus on teaching improvisation skills, allowing drummers to express themselves creatively. This often includes guidance on phrasing, dynamics, and developing unique drum parts on the fly.
- Advanced Rudiments and Fill Patterns: For those looking to elevate their drumming, many DVDs delve into advanced rudiments and complex fill patterns. Understanding these can enhance your technical ability and provide more options for soloing and accompaniment.
- Performance Tips and Stage Presence: Beyond technical skills, some teaching DVDs offer advice on performance techniques and how to engage an audience. This includes tips on stage presence, confidence, and the importance of connecting with other musicians during a performance.
- Practice Routines and Strategies: Effective practice routines are often outlined in these DVDs, providing structured plans for improvement. This helps drummers to maximize their practice time and focus on areas that need the most attention.
What Are the Unique Features of Each Recommended DVD?
The best drum teaching DVDs offer a range of features designed to enhance learning for drummers at various skill levels.
- Drumset 101 by Mike Johnston: This DVD focuses on foundational techniques, making it ideal for beginners. It includes clear demonstrations of basic drumming patterns, proper grip, and posture, ensuring that new drummers can build a solid foundation.
- The Ultimate Beginner Series: Drums: Aimed at complete novices, this DVD breaks down drumming into easy-to-follow lessons. It covers the essential rudiments, time signatures, and simple grooves, allowing learners to progress at their own pace while building confidence.
- Drum Lessons with David Garibaldi: Featuring the renowned drummer, this DVD offers insights into advanced techniques and groove-based playing. Garibaldi shares his unique approach to rhythm and fills, making it an excellent resource for intermediate to advanced players looking to elevate their skills.
- The Groove Essentials by Tommy Igoe: This DVD emphasizes the importance of groove in drumming and provides practical exercises for developing a strong sense of timing. It covers various styles and incorporates play-along tracks, allowing drummers to practice in a musical context.
- Drumming in the Modern Era by Benny Greb: This advanced DVD explores creative drumming concepts and improvisation techniques. Greb’s innovative style encourages drummers to think outside the box, incorporating dynamics and musicality into their playing, making it perfect for those looking to expand their musical expression.
How Do Drum Teaching DVDs Compare to Online Lessons?
| Aspect | Drum Teaching DVDs | Online Lessons |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Pre-recorded videos, structured lessons. | Live or recorded sessions, flexible formats. |
| Interactivity | Limited interaction, mostly self-paced learning. | Real-time interaction, instant feedback available. |
| Cost | One-time purchase, generally lower overall cost. | Subscription-based or per-lesson fees, can add up. |
| Accessibility | Requires a DVD player or compatible device. | Accessible from any device with internet connection. |
| Quality of instruction | Varies by instructor, typically pre-selected teaching styles. | Varies by instructor, often includes diverse teaching styles. |
| Availability of additional resources | May include supplementary materials like sheet music. | Often provide access to community forums, additional tutorials, and practice materials. |
| Learning pace | Learners progress at their own pace, can rewind or replay lessons. | Pacing can depend on class structure, but often allows for flexibility. |
| Target audience | Generally suitable for beginners to intermediate players. | Can cater to all skill levels, often specialized classes available. |
What Do Professional Drummers Say About Their Favorite DVDs?
Professional drummers often recommend various DVDs that provide exceptional teaching methods and insightful techniques for drummers at any level.
- Drumset 101: This DVD is praised for its comprehensive introduction to drumming. It covers the basic techniques and concepts needed to start playing the drum set, making it ideal for beginners who want to build a solid foundation.
- The Art of Drumming: Renowned for its focus on creativity and musicality, this DVD is favored by many professional drummers. It encourages players to explore their unique style while mastering essential rhythms and techniques, bridging the gap between technical skills and artistic expression.
- Groove Essentials: This DVD is celebrated for its extensive exploration of various grooves and styles. It provides detailed lessons on how to play different genres, making it a valuable resource for drummers looking to expand their versatility and adaptability in different musical settings.
- Advanced Rock Drumming: Many seasoned drummers recommend this DVD for its in-depth study of advanced techniques and patterns. It challenges experienced players to refine their skills, focusing on complex rhythms, fills, and performance tips that elevate their playing to a professional level.
- Drumming with Brushes: This DVD is highlighted for its unique approach to using brushes instead of sticks. It teaches drummers how to create subtle textures and dynamics in their playing, making it a favorite among jazz and softer music enthusiasts.
How Can You Assess the Quality of a Drum Teaching DVD Before Buying?
When looking to assess the quality of a drum teaching DVD before making a purchase, consider the following factors:
- Instructor Credentials: Check the background and experience of the instructor featured in the DVD. A qualified instructor with a solid history of teaching and performing can provide valuable insights and techniques that are beneficial for learners.
- Content Structure: Evaluate the organization of the DVD’s content. A well-structured program that progresses logically from basic to advanced techniques allows learners to build their skills effectively and ensures that no crucial topics are missed.
- Production Quality: Look for DVDs with high production values, including clear audio and visual quality. High-quality video and sound enhance the learning experience, making it easier to follow along with the instructor’s demonstrations.
- User Reviews and Ratings: Research reviews from other users who have purchased the DVD. Feedback from fellow drummers can provide insight into the effectiveness of the teaching methods and whether the DVD meets your learning needs.
- Supplementary Materials: Check if the DVD comes with additional resources, such as practice exercises, sheet music, or online access to further lessons. These materials can significantly enhance your learning experience by providing practical applications of the concepts taught in the DVD.
- Teaching Style: Consider the teaching style of the instructor. Some learners may prefer a more traditional approach, while others may benefit from a modern, interactive style. Ensure the teaching method aligns with your personal learning preferences for the best results.
- Target Audience: Determine if the DVD is aimed at beginners, intermediate, or advanced drummers. A teaching DVD tailored to your skill level will be more effective in helping you progress without overwhelming you with material that is too advanced or too simplistic.