Drummers tend to have the reputation of being loud. Loud sound, loud personality, or maybe even loud clothes. While some may fill this loud characteristic, I tend to see myself as more observant and reserved. Being a drummer for a band is an important role. It is more than simply hitting a drum and striking a cymbal. Being the drummer is about being the heartbeat of the group.
I merely disagree with drums being loud instruments. They definitely have the potential of being loud but it all depends on the person who is playing the drum kit. Believe me, I was an elementary music teacher. I heard the loud bangs on drums from my rowdy students. One of the first lessons I taught to my kindergartners was the difference between playing soft and loud. The lesson allowed them to understand the importance of playing and singing at different sound levels. A similar concept applies here. Understanding to play to the room is a form of technique for a drummer.
If you are a drummer and you are going to play in an outside venue, you can play louder. If you are going to play in a small room, it is best if you play soft and potentially use different sticks to compliment the space. There is no shame in having to switch to different sticks in order to play soft. A couple weeks ago, I had to play a gig with Kindred. We played in a beautiful room that was relatively small and was surrounded by glass and wood. In order to get the best sound, I had to play softer than normal. On some occasions, I also had to switch sticks, which is okay! Switching sticks also gives you the opportunity to explore different sounds around your kit.
Overall, I do not agree that all drummers are loud. Ultimately, it comes down to the person who is sitting behind the kit. If you are playing too loud or too soft, do not worry, your band or sound engineer will make you aware of that. Being a better drummer is about having proper technique and having the desire to learn and grow.
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