Beginner Drummer’s Guide to Networking: Build Connections, Find Gigs, and Grow Your Career.

As a beginner drummer, you might think your primary focus should be honing your skills and mastering rudiments. While those are undeniably important, building a network is equally crucial to kickstarting your drumming journey. Networking opens doors to gigs, collaborations, and opportunities that could shape your career. So, where do you start, and how do you navigate the world of drumming connections? This guide will break it down for you.

Why Networking Matters for Beginner Drummers

You’ve heard it before: “It’s not just what you know, but who you know.” In the drumming world, your network can be just as valuable as your paradiddles. Here’s why:

• Access to Gigs: Many gigs aren’t publicly advertised; they’re passed around through personal recommendations.

• Learning Opportunities: Networking exposes you to more experienced drummers who can offer guidance, mentorship, or simply inspire you to improve.

• Visibility: By building relationships, you’re more likely to be remembered when opportunities arise.

Where to Begin: Networking Basics for Drummers

1. Start with Your Local Scene

Your local music community is the perfect launchpad for networking. Attend open mic nights, jam sessions, and gigs at nearby venues. Even if you’re not ready to perform, showing up regularly builds familiarity.

Pro Tip: Create a simple Instagram profile showcasing your drumming to make it easy for others to connect with you.

2. Use Social Media to Your Advantage

Platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok are goldmines for connecting with fellow musicians. Share clips of your practice sessions, covers, or original grooves. Consistent posting can catch the attention of other drummers, bands and musicians. “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know” becomes “It’s not what you know, it’s who knows you”.

Hashtags to Use:

• #DrumsBeginner

• #BeginnerDrummer

• #DrummingCommunity

• #SessionDrummer

Bonus Tip: Don’t just post and ghost. Engage with others by liking, commenting, and sharing their content.

3. Attend Drumming Events and Clinics

Drumming festivals, clinics, and workshops are perfect places to meet like-minded individuals. These events often feature Q&A sessions where you can interact with professionals and get insider tips.

Example Events to Watch For:

• UK Drum Show

• Drumeo Live Sessions

• Local drum clinics at music stores

• Specific networking events

• Local jam nights

How to Make Meaningful Connections

Building a network isn’t about handing out dozens of business cards or spamming people online. It’s about creating genuine relationships. Here’s how:

1. Be Authentic

People can spot fake enthusiasm from a mile away. If you admire someone’s playing, compliment them sincerely. If you’re interested in working with someone, express it clearly without overloading them with messages.

2. Offer Value

Networking isn’t just about taking; it’s about giving. Can you offer to help set up at a gig? Are you skilled in recording or editing drum videos? Use your non-drumming skills to contribute.

3. Follow Up

After meeting someone, send a quick message or email to express gratitude and keep the connection alive. This simple step is often overlooked but can leave a lasting impression.

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When I’m not teaching, you can find me drumming for Winter Gardens & Coco & The Lost.

Follow my journey on Instagram.

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Common Networking Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

1. Overloading People

Spamming someone with messages or overwhelming them with your playing videos is a fast track to being ignored. Keep it professional and concise.

2. Neglecting Your Online Presence

If someone Googles you after meeting, will they find anything? Ensure your social media profiles and website are updated with relevant content.

Action Step: Create a simple website using platforms like Squarespace or Wix to showcase your work. Include a brief bio, videos, and contact details.

3. Not Following Through

Did someone offer you advice or suggest a gig? Make sure you follow up promptly. Failing to act on opportunities can damage your reputation.

Networking for Gigs: How to Stand Out as a Beginner Drummer

1. Play the Long Game

Don’t expect immediate results. Networking is about building trust and relationships over time. Even if someone doesn’t hire you right away, they may keep you in mind for future projects.

2. Showcase Your Professionalism

Being a reliable drummer is just as important as being skilled. Show up on time, be prepared, and maintain a positive attitude.

Related Read: 3 Simple Ways to Get Gigs as a Beginner Drummer

3. Diversify Your Skills

Can you play multiple genres, sing backing vocals, or program drum tracks? Versatility makes you a more appealing hire. 

Read my blog series on how to add electronics into your playing, a must for the modern drummer: How to Incorporate Electric Drums into Your Setup (Pt. 1/3)

How to Network Without Feeling Awkward

Networking can feel daunting, especially if you’re introverted or new to the drumming world. Here are some tips to ease into it:

1. Focus on Listening

Instead of worrying about what to say, concentrate on what others are sharing. People appreciate a good listener.

2. Find Common Ground

Are you both fans of a particular band or drummer? Shared interests are great icebreakers. It doesn't even have to be music related. Some of the best relationships I’ve made have come from talking about football!

3. Don’t Talk Business Straight Away

Don’t go head first into trying to get what you want from them. Just imagine you’re getting to know someone. No pressure. Once you feel more comfortable with that person you can start to bring up your work and ideas.

The Power of Saying Yes

When you’re starting out, saying “yes” to new opportunities (within reason) can lead to unexpected connections and growth. Play that unpaid gig if it’s likely to help you meet key people. Join that jam session even if you’re nervous. Every step builds momentum.

Conclusion: Start Building Your Network Today

Networking as a beginner drummer might seem intimidating, but it’s one of the most rewarding aspects of your journey. By showing up, engaging genuinely, and consistently improving your craft, you’ll build connections that help you thrive in the music world.

Ready to take the next step? Sign up for my drum lessons or follow me on Instagram for more tips and inspiration.

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