The Path to Mastering Drum Solos: A Journey with Matt Garstka and Other Drumming Greats

As a drummer reaches a certain level, the complexity of their solos can become almost unbelievable. Drummers like Matt Garstka are known for their insane chops and works of art created through rudiments and unusual subdivisions. How do they come up with these incredible drum solos, and do they tackle everything one by one, or does it happen naturally? Let's explore some insights and techniques shared by experienced drummers.

Developing a Storytelling Approach to Drum Solos

My Approach to Drum Solos

When I sat down behind my drum kit to craft a drum solo, I always approached it with a storytelling mindset. The process involved several key steps, each essential to creating a cohesive and engaging solo. I would start by setting up an introduction with some cute fills and rolls, gradually building up the intensity until it reached a crescendo. Here, I would showcase my advanced rudiments and complex subdivisions, ensuring the solo seemed fast and difficult for the audience but was smooth and fluid for me to execute.

As the solo progressed, I would mix in quick rolls, intricate fills, and a combination of fast and slow sections, involving all drums, including the bass drum and cymbals. After hitting the peak, I would slow down and incorporate slower rudiments and triplets, leading it to a satisfying end. Each section was meticulously recorded and refined to ensure the final solo was polished and well-coordinated.

Mastery and the Path to Advanced Drumming

In interviews, drummers like Matt Garstka often share the concept of mastery. This term refers to the level of proficiency where complex techniques come naturally. However, achieving this level requires intense dedication and practice. Intermediate-to-advanced players often feel like they are guessing when attempting these techniques, whereas masters can perform them flawlessly.

The Skateboard Trick Analogy

For instance, consider a skateboard trick. You might be able to perform it occasionally, but can you do it consistently under pressure and in front of an audience? This level of consistency and confidence is the hallmark of a true master. It takes a lifetime of focused and dedicated practice. Most drummers cannot maintain such intense practice due to lack of focus, motivation, or balancing other aspects of their lives. Thus, a select few, like Garstka, Lang, and other renowned drummers, have achieved this level through years of rigorous practice and a natural aptitude for the craft.

Unshakable Work Ethic and Natural Talent

These masters often began their journey by practicing extremely long hours during their formative years, sometimes for upwards of 7 hours per day, for over a year. During this time, they pushed through one barrier after another, took lessons, and rapidly absorbed complex concepts. Their high baseline intelligence allowed them to manage their lives while maintaining such an intense practice regimen. Additionally, they had a natural talent that was evident from an early age, enabling them to control their playing consciously and consistently.

Personal Reflection and Inspiration

As I reflect on my journey, I realize that I have made significant sacrifices and yet, I may not have pushed myself as far as I could or should have. The journey to mastery is not just about natural talent and hard work; it is also about self-reflection, motivation, and finding the balance between dedication and enjoyment.

Questions to Reflect On

Take some time to ask yourself these critical questions:

Are you willing to make the necessary sacrifices to improve your playing? Do you find genuine joy in drumming, or is it primarily a means to an end? Are you committed to dedicating significant time to practice, even when faced with obstacles?

For me, these questions have been a constant source of motivation and self-improvement. By understanding where I stand and being willing to push further, I can continue to grow as a drummer and reach new heights in my craft.

So, whether you are just starting your drumming journey or are already an advanced player, understand that the path to mastering drum solos is a combination of natural talent, hard work, and continuous self-improvement. Embrace the challenges and enjoy the journey.