If you play the drums, you’ll need to figure out how to practice quietly, especially if you live with someone or in an apartment building. Ensuring you can play without disturbing others will help you get the practice you need outside your music lessons. If you haven’t found a method that works for you, here are a few tips you can implement to make your practice zone quieter.

How to Practice Drums in a Shared Living Environment

1. Use Towels

Although sound-proofing your home may seem like an easy solution, you may not be able to make this change if you’re renting. Fortunately, you can use thick towels instead—lay them on an acoustic drum set to effectively dampen the sound. Take it a step further by closing your practice room’s door and stuffing a towel under it. This will prevent sounds from traveling out of the room.

2. Change the Sticks

The thickness of your sticks is what produces the forceful sound when they strike the drums. Swapping them out for brushes will create a softer sound that shouldn’t be audible to other household members or apartment neighbors. You can also change out your normal sticks for a thinner, lighter pair until you develop stick control and produce a quieter sound.

3. Get a Practice Pad

These slim accessories are inexpensive and will dampen the sound of your drums. Practice pads let you rehearse the techniques you learned in your music lessons, as they don’t affect rebound. Pads come in several volumes and surface options, so you’ll easily find one that’s similar to your drum set.

If you want to let loose without the worry of disrupting others, take music lessons at Hawaii MusicWorks in Pearl City. Their instructors will teach you how to advance your skills and prepare you for the stage. Get more information about their classes online, or call (808) 486-8600 to find out how you can enroll.