Learning the drums is a journey, and drumming lessons are thrilling as it is challenging. It’s not just about hitting things in rhythm (although that’s definitely part of the fun); it’s about unlocking a language, a physical art form that channels creativity and coordination into sound. But as with any journey, there’s a choice to make before you dive in: Should you learn drums online, or go with in-person lessons?

It’s not a simple one-size-fits-all answer. Both options have their upsides and drawbacks. Some drummers swear by the real-time feedback of face-to-face instruction, while others thrive with the flexibility and global access that comes with online platforms. Your schedule, your budget, your learning style: they all come into play.

This guide will walk you through the core differences between the two formats, helping you figure out which learning path suits your lifestyle and musical goals.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into the comparisons, it helps to get a solid picture of what online and in-person drum lessons involve.

Online Drum Lessons

These drumming lessons happen over the internet and can take a few different forms. You might join a live Zoom session with a teacher once a week, or you could subscribe to a drumming platform offering pre-recorded courses from well-known drummers. You’ll typically need a drum kit at home, some decent headphones, and a device with a stable internet connection.

In-Person Drum Lessons

This is the traditional route: You physically attend these drumming lessons with a teacher. These might take place in a local music school, a private studio, or even in the teacher’s home. Here, lessons are guided in real-time, with the instructor right there to watch your technique and adjust your progress as needed.

Why Go with Online Lessons?

1. They’re Flexible and Easy

Life can be busy. Between work, school, and family obligations, setting aside time for a weekly trip to a music studio can feel like a big ask. That’s where online learning shines, you can schedule lessons at times that actually work for you. Some platforms offer on-demand lessons, so you’re not even locked into a time. You can learn at 10 PM in your pajamas if you want to.

2. You’ve Got Access to Teachers Worldwide

One of the coolest things about online drumming lessons is the reach. You’re no longer limited to whoever’s teaching within driving distance. Whether you want to master Brazilian rhythms, deep-pocket funk, or jazz brushes, you can probably find a specialist who teaches online. That opens up a world of styles and techniques that just weren’t accessible for most people ten years ago.

3. Learn at Your Own Speed

Not everyone learns at the same pace, and that’s okay. Pre-recorded drumming lessons allow you to pause, rewind, and practice one section repeatedly until you get it right. This kind of self-paced learning is a big plus for folks who prefer to take their time or go back and reinforce concepts they might’ve glossed over the first time.

4. It Can Be Easier on the Budget

Compared to traditional private drumming lessons, online options are often more affordable. There are even free YouTube tutorials for absolute beginners (though quality can vary). Monthly subscriptions to professional platforms also tend to cost less than weekly private lessons, and let’s not forget, no commuting means no extra gas or public transit costs.

5. Comfort of Learning in Your Own Space

There’s something nice about practicing in your own home. You’re in familiar surroundings, you’re relaxed, and you’re not worrying about what someone else in the room thinks. For shy or introverted learners, this can make a big difference in building confidence early on.

Why In-Person Still Works Great

1. Instant, Personal Feedback

A good drum teacher doesn’t just show you how to play a beat, they’ll watch how you hold your sticks, how you sit, where your elbows are, how you move your wrists. In-person instruction means they can stop you mid-fill and say, “Wait, try it this way instead.” These real-time adjustments are invaluable, especially in the early stages.

2. A More Focused Environment

When you’re in a dedicated learning space, like a music room or studio, it’s easier to stay focused. You’re less likely to get distracted by text messages, pets, or chores. Just the act of leaving the house to attend a lesson can mentally prepare you to focus and treat the session with seriousness.

3. Studio-Quality Gear

Not everyone has access to a full drum kit at home, especially if they live in an apartment or share walls with neighbors. Studios usually provide high-quality acoustic kits, various cymbals, and sometimes even electronic kits. Playing on different setups also helps you get comfortable with gear variety early on.

4. You Build Real-Life Connections

Drumming might feel like a solo activity, but it’s rooted in community. Taking in-person lessons connects you with other musicians, instructors, and opportunities you might never have found otherwise. Whether it’s getting invited to a jam session or playing your first gig, these relationships can shape your growth as a player.

5. Accountability Through Routine

Knowing your teacher is expecting you at 4 PM every Thursday adds a level of commitment. That regularity helps form a practice habit and gives you consistent feedback loops, which can really move the needle in your progress.

Where It Might Get Tricky

Online Challenges

  • Hands-On Correction Isn’t Possible: Your teacher can’t reach through the screen to adjust your grip or your posture, which means subtle issues might go unnoticed.
  • Tech Glitches Happen: A bad connection or laggy video can throw off the timing of a lesson. Even the best virtual setups can’t fully replicate being in the same room.
  • Staying Motivated Is on You: Without the physical presence of a teacher, it’s easier to put off practicing or let weeks go by without logging in. Self-discipline is key.

In-Person Challenges

  • Schedules Can Be Inflexible: Missed a bus? Got held up at work? That might mean a lost lesson, depending on your teacher’s policy.
  • Travel Adds Time and Cost: Getting to your lesson every week eats up time and money, which adds up over the months.
  • Fewer Options Locally: In rural or smaller areas, the selection of instructors might be limited, especially for specialized styles or advanced techniques.

How to Figure Out What Suits You

Choosing between online and in-person lessons is a bit like choosing between going to the gym or working out at home, it depends on your personality and circumstances.

1. Your Learning Style

  • If you absorb information by watching and listening, online might work just fine.
  • If you benefit from physical demonstrations and adjustments, you’ll likely thrive in person.

2. Your Weekly Routine

  • Juggling work and other responsibilities? Online lessons offer unmatched flexibility.
  • Prefer structure and external accountability? In-person might keep you more consistent.

3. Your Budget

  • Tight on cash? Online tutorials or low-cost subscriptions are the most affordable route.
  • Willing to invest in tailored feedback? In-person instruction may give better results long-term.

4. Your Gear Setup

  • Got a solid kit at home? You’re ready for online lessons.
  • No gear yet? An in-person studio might be the best place to start.

Why Not Do Both?

Here’s the thing: learning doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Many drummers find that a mix of formats works best. Starting with a few in-person lessons to get the basics down can provide a solid foundation. After that, online lessons are a great way to keep progressing at your own pace.

Alternatively, some students continue with in-person lessons but use online tutorials and play-alongs as extra practice material. It’s not about choosing one format forever—it’s about staying flexible and using whatever helps you grow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I really learn drums well online?

Yes, absolutely. Thousands of drummers have started their journey online. The key is consistency, practice, and finding ways to get feedback, either through live sessions or submitting videos for critique.

Q2: How do I stay motivated with online learning?

Set specific goals (like mastering a song each month), follow a regular schedule, and connect with other drummers through forums or social media groups. Even a little encouragement can go a long way.

Q3: Are in-person lessons better if I’m brand new to drumming?

For beginners, in-person can make a big difference. Having someone physically correct your technique from day one helps prevent bad habits and builds confidence faster.

Q4: What gear do I need for online drum lessons?

At minimum, you’ll want a drum kit (acoustic or electronic), a computer or tablet, reliable internet, and a webcam. Good headphones help too, especially if you’re playing along with tracks or online videos.

Final Thoughts

There’s no perfect way to learn drums, only the way that works best for you. Whether you’re learning in person with a passionate teacher or picking up skills online at midnight after a long day, what matters most is that you’re showing up, sticking with it, and having fun. The drum set doesn’t care how you learn, just that you keep playing.

So find your rhythm, whichever path you take, and let it lead you where the music wants to go.