How to Practice Learning Songs on Drums – Step-by-Step Routine for Beginners

Learning how to play full songs is one of the most rewarding parts of being a drummer — but it can also be one of the most overwhelming for beginners.

At In-Home Drum Lessons by David Montoya, I help students across Gardena, Redondo Beach, Torrance, Manhattan Beach, and Palos Verdes break songs down into clear, learnable steps — whether it’s your first rock tune or a more complex piece with tempo shifts and fills.

This is Part 5 in our Drum Practice Routine Series. If you haven’t already, check out our earlier posts on beginner routines, coordination, speed, and dynamic control.

✅ Step-by-Step Song Practice Routine for Drummers

Time Required: ~30 minutes (can be shortened or stretched)

1. Listen First (5 minutes)

Listen to the full song 1–2 times before playing.

• Focus on the structure (intro, verse, chorus, bridge)

• Count the beats: Is it in 4/4? Are there tempo changes?

• Tap your foot or nod along to feel the groove

🎯 Goal: Understand the song before picking up sticks.

2. Chart It Out (5–10 minutes)

Write a simple roadmap of the song. You don’t need full sheet music — just structure.

Example:

• Intro – 2 bars

• Verse – 8 bars (simple groove)

• Chorus – 8 bars (louder snare, crash cymbals)

• Fill into bridge

• Bridge – 4 bars (half-time groove)

Use symbols or notes to track fill locations, groove changes, and important hits.

3. Practice Groove Sections (10 minutes)

Focus on each groove section separately.

• Start with the verse or main beat

• Loop each groove 8–12 times

• Use a metronome if needed to stay locked in

• Focus on timing, not flash

Then move to chorus or bridge grooves.

4. Add Fills and Transitions (5 minutes)

Practice any fills that connect sections.

• Use simple single stroke or paradiddle fills

• Play groove > fill > back to groove

• Keep fills in time, not rushed

If a fill feels tricky, simplify it until it feels natural.

5. Play Along (5 minutes or more)

Now, play the full song from start to finish with the original track.

• It’s okay to make mistakes — the goal is flow

• Try it a few times, improving one section at a time

• Record yourself to check your dynamics and timing

🧠 Why I Teach This Way

In my in-home lessons, I help students apply rudiments and technique to real songs — not just isolated exercises. Learning how to break down a song builds confidence, structure, and performance skills.

No matter your level, we’ll create a step-by-step plan to help you start playing full songs — and sounding great while doing it.

📍 Drum Lessons Available In:

• Gardena

• Redondo Beach

• Torrance

• Manhattan Beach

• Palos Verdes

Contact me today to start learning your favorite songs from home!

📞 Contact Info:

In-Home Drum Lessons by David Montoya
📞 310-502-4413
🌐 www.drumlessonsinhome.com