[For Students ＆ Beginners] Recommended Training Gear for Percussionists!

It’s been about six months since the new school year started. If you began playing a musical instrument in April, you’re probably still exploring different practice methods and gear that suit you.
As someone who played in the percussion section of a wind ensemble for nine years, I’d like to introduce the sticks, training pads, and electronic metronomes I personally used during practice.
The items I’ll introduce are affordable for students and perfect for beginners, so stick around until the end!

Sticks Section

PLAYWOOD / TR-BB Training Sticks

These sticks are thick and heavy, making them a bit tricky to handle, but they are ideal for building your foundation. You might struggle at first, but once you master these, you’ll be able to play even the most challenging rhythmic patterns! The key is to relax and play without exerting too much force. PLAYWOOD offers various other practice sticks, so check them out!

TECHRA / E-RHYTHM 7A

These sticks come with rubber tips, making them perfect for pad practice and warm-ups! They reduce volume, so they’re ideal for practicing in places where noise is a concern, like at home. They’re also handy for warming up backstage before concerts.

PLAYTECH / PHS5A

This 5A stick offers outstanding cost effectiveness, making it affordable enough for students to purchase in bulk!
It’s versatile and easy for beginners to use. The smooth surface makes it comfortable to hold as well.

For those interested in learning more about recommended drumsticks, check out this article!
⇒ [2024] 10 Recommended Drum Sticks

Pad Section

Yamaha / TS01S

This is a best-selling training pad known for its durability. I’ve been using mine for nearly 10 years without any loose screws! It can be detached from the stand and it’s portable, so I would bring it for band camps!

EVANS / RF12G RealFeel Speed Pad 12-inch Practice Pad

With a 12-inch playing surface, this training pad is perfect for beginners. Its non-slip backing allows you to place it on tables. The large surface is also convenient for group rhythm exercises!

REMO / PUTTY PAD RT-1001-52

This soft rubber training pad can be molded into any shape for practice.
Its small size makes it easy to carry!

Inside, there’s a semi-solid pad, as shown in the image, which can be stuck onto a desk or other surfaces for use. I found it especially useful during practice in classrooms or when traveling, where carrying a large pad wasn’t feasible. After practice, it can be cleanly removed, making it easy to practice anytime, anywhere. Of course, it won’t stick to your hands or drumsticks either!

Metronome Section

Finally, I’d like to introduce two electronic metronomes that are essential for practice!

BOSS / DB-90 Dr. Beat

This metronome is versatile and perfect for various uses! With features like a backlit large LCD display, pendulum-style motion, and multiple functions, this is a must-check item! I found it extremely useful for basic marching practice and performance rehearsals when connected to an amp.

BOSS / DB-30 Dr. Beat Metronome

If you’re looking for a portable metronome, this is the one for you! Like the DB-90, it comes with various features. Its compact, lightweight design allows it to be placed on a music stand or clipped onto one using the attached clip. It also has a headphone jack, making it ideal for individual practice sessions!

That concludes my recommendations for training gear!
Stick practice is not only important for drumming but also translates well to playing mallet instruments like the marimba, so keep at it every day.
There are also products that come with both sticks and pads as a set, so be sure to check those out too!