Most times, I'm glad that no one forced me, but there are times when I wish I was better rudimentally. I have a feeling it's like language: the earlier you start, the easier it is.

With the prevalence of YouTube and other tools not available in 1977, it would be easy to sit the lad down with a video of his favorite drummer and say "y'know, it'd be easier to play this way if you knew how to do this." That argument wouldn't work if his favorite drummer is Patrick Carney or Meg White, but I think you get my drift (no disrespect meant, I love both of their bands). :)

Al

I approach it like I do my woodworking shop: I usually acquire the tools as I need them.

Recently, however, 4 years into playing drums, I've started practicing rudiments more because I've been watching Netflix more,

I set up a drum with a mesh head and wail away while I'm watching. It's the mesh head that did it. With most practice pads, it would still be too loud to hear dialog.

My first kit in the mid-70s was a pale blue marine pearl Premier kit, Louis Bellson set-up with two floor toms. God, how I wish I still had it!

We want to thank you for all the replies, one can never have too much information. We really appreciate it. I have already upgraded his cymbals, used Zildjian cymbals and the same with stands, DWs. I also picked up Ludwig vintage hi-hat stand. And already got him a new seat. You can check out his last open mic night last week. https://www.facebook.com/mich.polan/videos/10205165770862947/

hi let me know what you have, i guess through private message. thanks

Hi where is this set for $300 at? thanks

I'm sending you a private message.

I probably wouldn't give a vintage kit to a 12 year old unless he's a good player, appreciates the subtitles and history of a vintage kit and is looking for a vintage sound. Vintage kits under $1000 will likely need at least some or, a perhaps a lot, of restoration work. Are you and your son willing to spend the time and effort to restore it to good condition. Or, by vintage kit do you really mean used and inexpensive? They are not the same thing.

See here is the catch 22 on this I could go out and spend x amount of dollars for kit not made in the US or I could by a vintage kit. If I known now back a year ago I wouldn't of wasted my dollars as on a starter kit which cost around $350, my mistake. I could of taken that money and got something a lot better. The thing is on the vintage I can start on the low end and work our way up. Would we be able to restore, nope, would have a clue on where to start. But there is something out there, just need to find it. Thanks for your thoughts.

Good for you. My nephew at 9 wanted to play drums. I restored a Maxwin/Pearl kit that was extra from a Slingerland snare buy. It was his favorite color and looked new. Still playing 2 yrs. later. Taking lessons from two teachers. Things break on these so he has learned how to mend.

Since he has stuck with it and shows real skill gets a Pearl 70's wood/fiberglass kit I have that he can pick out the wrap. Original was toast.

Nothing is better than time spent with the next generation. Find a good kit that needs some work. They are out there.

Creighton