Before any performance, or even practice session for that matter, one of the most important tasks that every musician should undertake is the act of warming up. Warm-ups are critical. Not only do they get blood flowing to the fingers and limbs to improve dexterity and stimulate muscle memory, but they also assist in preventing physical injury. Considering the high level of physical movement required to play the drums, drummers should likely focus on properly warming up more than players of nearly any other instrument.

In this online drum lesson, two-time Grammy Award-winning drummer, member of iconic jazz-fusion groups Weather Report and Steps Ahead, and ArtistWorks master instructor, Peter Erskine, teaches a few of his favorite rudiment patterns with which to warm up on his practice pad. These patterns are not only great tools to utilize as part of a warm-up routine, but they’re also important musical techniques that should be adopted into your playing and performances.

LEARN MORE: Want to learn how to play jazz drums from a master musician like Peter Erskine? Try some free online drum lessons now!

“One of my favorite warm-up rudiments is the flam accent,” Peter explains. “This warm-up will help improve your time and technique, and will also help make your flams more consistent as you alternate between the right and left hands.”

Practicing rudiments and getting them to a level where you can consistently and effectively implement them into your warm-up routine can feel tedious at first. Remember, don’t be afraid to use a metronome, and try to be patient with yourself. Like most things, these rudiments will feel like second nature in time, and will not only elevate your practice routine but will also expand your ability to be free and more fluent behind the kit.

“With enough practice on these rudiment patterns, you’ll be able to play anything,” explains Peter.

To learn more about these critical rudiment patterns and how to begin implementing them into your warm-up routine and playing, dive into this online drum lesson from Peter Erskine:

Rudiment Warm-Ups with Peter Erskine:

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Have you always wanted to learn how to play jazz drums? Through our comprehensive drum lessons online and Video Exchange Learning platform here at ArtistWorks, you can learn from internationally renowned drum master Peter Erskine, and get personal feedback on your playing.

Peter’s course starts with the basics and teaches everything from beginner drums to advanced performance techniques, improvisation methods, jazz standards, and beyond. So, whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced player, all levels are welcome and all students will grow and improve their skills as drummers and musicians.

Sample some free music lessons here and see what makes ArtistWorks courses some of the best online music lessons around!

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