Let’s say you’re interested in learning how to play the drums. If that’s the case, you may be considering your options. And you may be wondering whether learning online makes sense.
My short answer? Yes—absolutely.
Before you dismiss that as self-serving, let me explain. Yes, we do offer help learning online—but that’s not why I’m writing this. I just want to give you a clear, honest take based on years of teaching. Whether you study with me or someone else doesn’t matter all that much—the point is that you get good information
There’s a myth that you have to have a teacher sitting next to you to make real progress. That’s just not true.
Of course, there are moments when a trained eye helps—things like grip, posture, foot technique, or balance. Those small details matter, and when you’re refining technique, feedback (either in person or over video) can make a difference.
But for a large part of the drumming journey? You can absolutely do it without a teacher in the room.
Learning to read rhythms, play basic grooves, develop coordination, work through rudiments, even learn songs—all of that can be taught effectively through video, if the lessons are structured well and taught clearly.
If the instruction makes sense, and you’re willing to practice consistently, you can get really far this way.
One of the biggest reasons online learning works so well is efficiency.
You can hit pause. Rewind. Watch something again. Practice whenever you have time—before work, late at night, weekends. No commuting, no waiting rooms, no traffic.
For a lot of adults with jobs and families, that flexibility is what makes learning possible. It’s the difference between wanting to play drums and actually doing it.
In-person drum lessons can be expensive. Between the hourly rate, travel time, and scheduling, it adds up fast.
Online lessons, on the other hand, are usually far more affordable—and often give you lifetime access. That means you can revisit the material again and again as you improve, without paying more every week.
So purely from a financial standpoint, online lessons make sense for a lot of people.
Not every online course or teacher is created equal.
Some videos out there are just players showing off chops, not teaching anything. Real teaching—especially online—requires structure, clarity, and experience guiding beginners through the common roadblocks.
If you find a teacher who understands how to explain things step by step, with good sound and clear visuals, you can make enormous progress. The key is how it’s taught, not where it’s taught.
There are moments when a teacher’s eye matters.
When it comes to your technique, and your balance behind the kit, small physical details can be extremely important. Maybe your left hand isn’t gripping the stick properly, or your bass drum foot is too far forward on the pedal, or your posture is wrong. Those are the times when direct feedback can save you from building bad habits.
But even that can be done remotely now—streaming lessons with multiple camera angles can show a teacher everything they need to see.
So, in my opinion, the best approach is often a hybrid one: structured online lessons for most of your learning, and occasional check-ins with a teacher to fine-tune the details.
There’s another underrated factor here: comfort.
Not everyone loves the idea of drumming in front of a stranger. And some studios—let’s be honest—aren’t the most inspiring places to hang out. I’ve occasionally heard stories from students about feeling uncomfortable personally because of the vibe of the teacher.
Learning at home gets rid of all that. You can take your time, make mistakes, and play freely without worrying about being judged. That relaxed mindset can actually help you learn faster.
So, is it worth it to study online?
Yes. If the lessons are well-designed, if the teacher knows what they’re doing, and if you’re willing to put in the practice, they absolutely are.
They’re efficient, affordable, and convenient—and they can take you remarkably far. You don’t need someone sitting next to you for every part of your drumming journey. What you do need is clear guidance, solid structure, and consistent effort.
And for most drummers, that’s more than enough to get started and build real skill.
At BANG! The Drum School, we’re dedicated to helping beginners start strong with clear, structured online drum lessons that make learning fun and frustration-free.
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