Can My Child Learn Drums in a Toronto Condo Without Bothering the Neighbours?
Short answer: yes. With the right setup, electronic drums are quiet enough for most Toronto condos and semis, and they are fantastic for beginners. Here is how to choose a kit, keep the volume down, and make real progress in lessons.
Electronic vs acoustic for beginners
Electronic kits are ideal for condos. Headphones keep volume low and built-in coaching tools make practice clear.
Acoustic kits feel amazing but are loud and need room treatment. Most families start electronic, then add an acoustic kit later if space allows.
What to look for in a beginner electronic kit
Mesh heads for a realistic stick feel and lower noise.
Responsive kick that accepts a standard pedal.
Closed and open hi-hat options for real musical skills.
USB or audio out for play-along tracks and simple recording.
Sturdy rack that fits easily in a bedroom or den.
Ask us for model suggestions in a range of budgets. We can recommend options commonly available in Toronto music stores.
How to make your kit condo friendly
Use headphones and keep the module master volume low.
Add a vibration mat or dense foam under the kick pedal and rack to reduce transfer through floors.
Choose lighter sticks and keep stick height compact during practice.
Set quiet hours for any pad-heavy work that still creates some thump.
Do students still learn real technique on an electronic kit?
Yes. We teach stick control, rebound, dynamics, reading, coordination, and musicality. Students who start on electronic kits transition to acoustic sets with confidence because the fundamentals are the same when taught properly.
What a beginner lesson looks like at Leaside
Warm-up on a practice pad for clean technique
Groove building on the kit at a comfortable tempo
Reading basics that translate to any style
Play-along track so practice feels like real music
Clear weekly plan that fits your schedule
Practice that works in small spaces
10–15 minutes a day is enough for new drummers.
Split time between pad for control and kit for coordination.
Use a metronome or built-in coach to keep timing solid.
Record a short clip once a week to track progress.
Buying vs renting Drums in Toronto
Renting helps you test commitment before buying.
Buying makes sense if your child is excited and you have a consistent practice plan.
We can point you to local rentals and entry-level kits that hold their value.
FAQ
Will neighbours hear it?
With headphones and a simple vibration mat, most neighbours hear little more than light tapping.
Can we start lessons before we buy a kit?
Yes. Start with a practice pad and a pair of sticks. We will teach basics and help you choose a kit after a few lessons.
Do you teach complete beginners and adults?
Absolutely. Many adult students start on electronic kits for convenience and quiet practice.
Ready to try a lesson?
Book a free trial at our studio, 214 Laird Dr., East York, open Mon–Fri 12–10 pm, Sat–Sun 10–6 pm. We will assess readiness, set a practice plan, and give kit recommendations that fit your home.
Start quiet, learn right. Book a free drum trial at Leaside Music School.