How to Find a Drummer

Most jazz, rock and blues bands need drummers and bassists - a good rhythm section - to provide the backbone of the music. Here are some tips on how to find a drummer.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Felt-tipped Pens
• Telephones
• Internet Access
• Computers
• Drum Sets
• Poster Boards
• Yellow Pages
• Local Newspapers
• Music Stands
• Sheet Music
• Modern Drummer Subscriptions

Locating Drummers

1. Place an ad in the music/musicians wanted section of your local newspaper.
2. Read the music ad sections in all of your local papers and magazines.
3. Check the musicians available/musicians wanted ads in music magazines.
4. Go to clubs and to jam sessions where musicians meet and exchange ideas. Listen to the different bands and decide whose drummer's style you like best. After the music is over, ask the drummer you like whether he or she is available and whether you can call at a convenient time.
5. Locate drumming teachers in your yellow pages and ask whether they would recommend any of their students or are themselves interested.
6. Go to drumming classes and workshops and find the drummer you like best.
7. Go to a music store that specializes in drums and percussion instruments. The people who work there usually know all kinds of musicians who are available and looking to play with other people.
8. Make a "Looking for a Drummer" poster and put it up on a music store bulletin board. Make sure it has your name and phone number, not necessarily your address, on it. Post it in bookstores, cafes, clubs and music schools around your town.
9. Read the bulletin boards of music schools and colleges. Ask whether you can post your poster or card there.
10. Surf on the Musicians Websearch Classifieds Web site, click on "Musicians Wanted Or Available," "Drummers" to find a drummer in your area.

Interviewing Drummers

11. Call and set up an appointment to discuss your musical ideas.
12. Meet with the potential drummer. Be up front about what your expectations are, musically and financially, and what musical styles you want to cover.
13. Find out whether both of you have the same musical interests and goals.
14. Find out whether your prospective drummer has a place to rehearse in case you can't provide a room where he can make as much noise as he wants without disturbing anyone.
15. Arrange a time and place for auditioning.