Junior drum sets, also often known as starter drum sets or kids drum sets, are small sized drum kits that serve a useful purpose as learning instruments suitable for young children and good deal for parents. As opposed to drum sets that you buy in a toy store (that really are ‘toys’), a junior drum set is an actual instrument that plays quality sound and are durable enough to take the beating of a young drummer. Buying a junior drum set for a child player will help them play drums using a real instrument, which in turn will help them develop a passion for drums while at the same time learn drumming techniques and have fun.
What is also great about junior or starter drum sets is that even though they are high quality instruments, they are usually affordable. There are enough on the market now that you can generally find one for between $100 and $150. This is far less than the many hundred dollars you would pay for a real drum kit. Plus, child drum kits usually come with all the accessories needed to start drumming right away, like drum sticks, bass pedal, throne (drumming seat), and drum key. This means young drummers can usually start drumming right away once they purchase their kit.
There are junior drum kits in a variety of style, but generally choosing one is relatively easy. Kids drum sets are normally first categorized by how many ‘drums’ are in the kit. You’ll find 3-piece, 4-piece, and 5-piece junior drum sets, which really defines how many tom-tom drums come with the set in addition to the bass drum and snare drum. Any of these configurations are great for a young drummer to start drumming, its just a matter of personal preference and budget. Junior drum sets also come with cymbals and a high-hat to complete the drum set components.
There are also different size child drum sets, and most will indicate the age appropriateness for each set. You’ll find small sets made for children ages 3-7, then sets for ages 7-10. Some of the larger junior drum sets are suitable for children all the way into their teenage years, which they will use as long as they are fond of drumming and until they are ready to upgrade to a full set. These junior drum sets will also last many years as well, as the main parts that wear down are the drum heads which are easily replaced.
Finding a great drum set for kids is relatively simple as well. Many major musical instruments manufacturers who offer drums will also make junior drum kits as part of their product offerings, and as mentioned they are generally affordable. You will find some upscale junior sets with more features that cost more. However another option is buying a used junior drum set. Since young drummers are always upgrading to full kits, and because their junior drum kits are usually still playable, there are always plenty of used drum kits on the market. Looking on eBay for used junior drum sets is a smart place for parents to find their child’s first drum set.
So if you can stand the noise of your child enjoying his new drum kit, but are willing to introducing him to the new world of drumming, then choose a junior drum set and get them started off in the right direction.