Globally, we found ourselves under stay-at-home orders for extended periods in 2020. As a result, many of us turned to our hobbies and creative pursuits. These can provide a meaningful escape from the uncertainty of world events. For Simon Gottliffe, that escape was drumming. Simon was a newcomer to playing the drums as lockdown commenced. Armed with an electronic kit and ample time, Simon set out to develop his abilities.
Stress Relief
As musicians know, playing provides a perfect release from day-to-day stress and anxiety. Like mindfulness techniques, musical practice has repetitive structure and achievable challenges. When combined, these are an excellent way to maintain a sense of calm. Recognizing the need for a positive focus, Simon began busying himself. He made drumming a constant from one day to the next.
“I chose drums because I wanted to try something a bit different,” reveals Gottliffe. “For me, there’s something that’s a lot of fun about hitting drums. I knew we were going to be indoors for extended periods. There were days when I played for three to four hours at a time.”
More Drumming, Less Noise
Of course, there is a fundamental benefit to using an electronic kit in a home environment. Playing for long periods at a time is simply easier with less noise. Also, as a beginner, Simon found there was plenty to keep his attention. He explored online lessons as well as the simplicity of playing along to his favorite songs. All of these habits provided him with a sense of positive direction and encouragement.
Social Interaction and the Power of Practice
Learning to play an instrument is only half the recipe. The other ingredient is the interactive aspect of music. Social distancing presented limitations to playing with other musicians in-person. However, Simon embraced the digital features of electronic drums during periods of stay-at-home.
"I knew we were going to be indoors for extended periods. There were days when I played for three to four hours at a time."
Simon also pulled from his day job experience in the live-action games industry. Using his kit’s USB connection, he introduced social interaction into his hobby virtually.
He showcased his drumming progress online, making a vital connection with others. Simon received feedback on his playing from friends and family. In addition to building confidence, accountability helps during the early stages of musical development.
The Gift of Time
“It was always something I wanted to do,” he explains. “I couldn’t justify the expense or space. Right now, electronic drums are at a point where they’re both affordable and practical. It was a big thing for me—keeping busy and not going stir-crazy.”
"For me, drumming kind of saved me during lockdown.”
Making Connections
Simon is continuing on his stay-at-home drum journey on the Roland TD-07KV. His story demonstrates the possibilities that music unlocks. Taking up a musical instrument is about more than “making it” on a professional level. Fun, enjoyment, and tracking progress are equally rewarding—perhaps even more so.
In the end, the sense of well-being Simon receives from his stay-at-home musical practice is something he may not have found without 2020’s unusual challenges. As Simon puts it, “For me, drumming saved kind of saved me during lockdown.”
