How long does it take to learn drums?

By lmt-adminNovember 14, 2023
Est. Reading: 4 minutes

Embarking on a musical journey with the drums is an exciting endeavour that opens the door to rhythmic creativity and self-expression. Aspiring drummers often find themselves pondering a burning question: How long does it take to learn to play the drums, especially with the guidance of a reputable institution like the LMT Music Academy?

In this article, we delve into the captivating world of drumming education, exploring the various factors that influence the timeline of skill development. Whether you're a beginner eager to grasp drumsticks for the first time or an experienced musician seeking to refine your percussive abilities, join us as we uncover the path to drumming mastery and discover the valuable insights offered by the LMT Music Academy on this rhythmic journey.

A woman smiling whilst playing drums

Basic proficiency 

If your goal is to achieve fundamental proficiency and be able to play straightforward beats and rhythms, you can typically notice significant progress within a few months of consistent practice and instruction. Attaining basic proficiency in drumming is often the initial milestone on the journey towards becoming a skilled drummer.


For those starting their musical journey, basic proficiency typically involves grasping fundamental drumming techniques, developing a sense of rhythm, and being able to play simple beats and rhythms. With dedicated practice and the guidance provided by institutions like the LMT Music Academy, many students can achieve this level of competence within a few months of consistent effort.

It's during this phase that students build a strong foundation, enabling them to understand the mechanics of drumming, coordinate their limbs, and play along with basic songs. While basic proficiency represents just the beginning of one's drumming journey, it's a significant step that brings joy and a sense of accomplishment to drum enthusiasts. 

Intermediate level 

As drummers progress in their musical journey, they often set their sights on achieving an intermediate level of proficiency, characterized by a deeper understanding of drumming techniques and the ability to play more complex rhythms, fills, and songs.

At this stage, students who have been diligently practising and receiving guidance from Academies like the LMT Music Academy typically have about 1 to 2 years of experience under their belts.

Intermediate drummers can comfortably navigate through various musical genres, experiment with different drumming styles, and participate in more advanced musical collaborations. This phase of learning is marked by an increased level of creativity and confidence behind the drum kit, as students begin to explore the intricacies of rhythm and groove. It's a rewarding step that showcases the progress made by dedicated drumming enthusiasts on their journey to mastery. To reach an intermediate level where you can play more complex rhythms fills, and songs, it may take around 1-2 years of consistent practice and instruction. 

A woman passionately playing drums

Advanced level 

As drummers continue to hone their skills and dedication, they may find themselves entering the advanced level of drumming proficiency. This stage represents a significant achievement and typically requires several years of focused practice and instruction!

Advanced drummers have mastered complex rhythms, intricate fills, and the ability to play with precision and finesse. They are capable of tackling challenging songs and adapting to various musical styles with ease. At this level, drummers often begin to explore more specialized techniques, such as poly-rhythms, odd time signatures, and advanced improvisation, allowing them to excel in demanding musical scenarios. The journey to the advanced level is marked by a deep passion for drumming and a commitment to continuous improvement, resulting in a level of skill that commands respect in the world of percussion 

Young man playing the drums

Expertise and mastery 

Achieving true expertise and mastery in drumming, where you can perform at a professional level or teach others, can take many years of intensive practice and experience. This often requires a lifelong commitment to learning and improving your skills.

For those dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in drumming, the path leads to expertise and mastery, the zenith of percussive artistry.

This level represents the culmination of years, if not decades, of unwavering commitment to the craft, often with the guidance and support of excellent education and teachers!

Drummers who have reached this pinnacle possess an unparalleled command of their instrument. They can effortlessly navigate the most intricate and demanding compositions, whether in live performances, recording studios, or teaching environments. Expertise and mastery extend beyond technical prowess; they encompass an innate understanding of rhythm, an unparalleled sense of timing, and the ability to convey profound emotions through drumming.

Those who have achieved this level inspire and influence others in the drumming community, serving as beacons of inspiration and artistic brilliance, and leaving an indelible mark on the world of percussion. 

The "how-long-does-it-take" conclusion

The journey of learning to play the drums is a dynamic and rewarding endeavour, one that offers a range of experiences and challenges for musicians at every stage. As we've explored in this article, the time it takes to become proficient on the drums can vary significantly based on individual dedication, practice, and the guidance received from reputable institutions like the LMT Music Academy.

Whether you're aiming for basic proficiency, striving for the advanced level, or even aspiring to expertise and mastery, the key to success lies in your commitment and passion for the art of drumming. 

Remember that every drummer's journey is unique, and progress may not always follow a linear path.

Embrace the joys of rhythmic exploration, the thrill of mastering new techniques, and the camaraderie of fellow drummers.

Regardless of how long it takes, the drumming journey itself is a fulfilling and enriching experience.

So, pick up those drumsticks, keep the beat alive, and let your rhythmic journey with the drums be a lifelong adventure filled with creativity and musical expression.

With dedication and perseverance, you'll find yourself marching to the rhythm of your own drum, a testament to the power of passion and musical dedication. 

Looking to start your drum lessons in London, give us a shout and we will help you get started!

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