Resources for drummers

This is a collection of books, gear, and other tools that I use in my own drumming practice. I only recommend things I personally work with and believe can help other drummers grow.

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Books

These are the books I keep coming back to in my own practice. Some are more approachable, some are more challenging, but each has something valuable no matter where you are on your drumming journey. I dip into different sections depending on what I’m working on, and that’s part of what makes these books so useful.

  • Master Studies by Joe Morello (Amazon affiliate link)
    My go-to for technique and warm-ups. Simple, effective, and timeless.

  • Jazz Drummer’s Reading Workbook by Tom Morgan (Amazon affiliate link)
    Great for sight-reading practice that feels like real jazz charts and to learn figures. It comes with downloadable mp3s to practice along with.

  • Advanced Funk Studies by Rick Latham (Amazon affiliate link)
    A fun way to challenge yourself with grooves and fills that sit right in the pocket.

  • Modern Rudimental Swing Solos by Charles Wilcoxon (Amazon affiliate link)
    A classic for building phrasing, control, and connection to the roots of drumming.

  • Advanced Coordination for Drum Set and Hand Percussion by Rick Dior (available to purchase through Rick)
    The book I use to push my independence and coordination, blending drum set and hand percussion ideas.

  • The Art of Bop Drumming by John Riley (Amazon affiliate link)
    A foundational book for developing swing, phrasing, and the language of jazz drumming.

  • Ultimate Realistic Rock by Carmine Appice (Amazon affiliate link)
    One of the first books I worked through, it gave me a solid foundation in rock grooves and fills that I still come back to. Excellent if you are just starting out.

  • Stick Control by George Lawrence Stone (Amazon affiliate link)
    A timeless book I’ve used many times for warm-ups and to improve control and speed.

Gear

Over the years I’ve collected gear that makes practice and performance smoother — from headphones and pedals to cymbals, sticks and stands. I don’t believe you need the most expensive setup to play well, but finding the right tools can make a huge difference in how enjoyable the instrument feels. Here are the pieces I rely on most in my own setup.