DEAR DANA
DEAR DANA
Dear Dana is a regular, interactive feature in Vancouver Family Magazine. Each month, professional mediator Dana Greyson tackles tough questions with insightful advice and suggestions.
Dear Dana: Ever since seeing Rush play in Ridgefield my about-tobe-sixth-grade son’s been driving me crazy with his desire to drum, to be the next Neil Peart. I’m all for it, figuring it’s good for him to try a few things out to find out what he likes. But his dad says the very idea gives him headache and it will hit our family finances even worse. What does it really cost and how do I win over my husband? – Trying to Drum Up Dad’s Support
Dear TTDUDS: While drums aren’t the most affordable instrument, they, along with bass guitars, are in high demand by most rock groups. But don’t beat yourself up over this by getting in the middle. The best way for “Neil” to win over his Dad and show he’s serious is to do his own homework. Encourage him to find out for himself specifically what his dad’s concerns are, then make his case, and ideally offer to put some skin in the game. To find out what it takes to become a successful professional drummer, he might want to peruse professional Portland drummer Todd Bishop’s website (www.pdxdrummer. com). Bishop emphasizes, 8
“Every student should try to play at least 30 minutes per day. Serious middleand high- school students should practice 1-2 hours per day. Most great drummers practiced a minimum of 3-5 hours every day, for a period of at least several years at some point in their lives.” Cost varies. Local music stores offer rentals, rentto-buy as well as regular purchase for new and used equipment. River City Music’s Josh Schardt suggests starting simply, with relatively quiet practice pads and a set of sticks, and strongly advises lessons, saying, “Self taught is a misnomer.” Beyond that, starter kits and electronic drum sets (silent when plugged into headphones!) run more in the $400 range. Craigslist (www.portland. craigslist.org) is another easily accessible source for buying used equipment and can give you an upfront idea of what resale might look like down the road. What would “Neil” be willing to offer to give this a go? Promise to practice daily? Pay a quarter of the cost in chores, or pitch in with his own hardearned cash? If “Neil” wants to try before buying, consider using the drums in Camas’s Boys and Girls Club, called Jack, Will
Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • August 2011
and Rob Club. The music rooms are free after paying a $20 membership. After it’s clear your son’s done due diligence, your husband might be swayed if convinced drumming delivers some valuable side benefits, according to Brad Boynton of Portland ‘s Rhythm Traders: 1. It’s physically a great way to work out aggression 2. Reading music is a practical way of learning math fractions 3. Playing in a group grows social skills, listening and incorporating what each person brings to the group As Steve Howe of the rock group Yes quips, “Although one can get very clever at home, progress comes a lot quicker if you step into a room with other people and start playing.” Even if it’s simply learning how to better approach his dad for support in finding his way in the world, we wish your son an upbeat experience pursuing his passions. A monthly VFM columnist since July 2007, Dana Greyson’s purpose is to embrace life fully, inspire others and change the world. Curious? Check www. danagreyson.com.