Top Drumming Competitions Around the World: What You Need to Know

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Several drumming enthusiasts are not satisfied with just, you know, recording themselves online playing the drums and livestreaming themselves over on TikTok. Of course, who would be happy to play the drums alone inside your room while your mom waits for you for dinner? 

Kidding aside, others would enroll in drum schools that have recitals after the whole class ends, like graduation. But what’s interesting is that others would go the extra mile and join drumming competitions, to what else? Brush up their skills! So, if you have the guts to hurt others without hurting them, well, competition, then get to know the best drumming competitions today in this conversation.

Top Drumming Competitions Around the World

1. Hit Like a Girl – Global

Not too confident to compete in person? There are online drumming competitions, such as Hit Like a Girl, that are also global, but the pressure isn’t bad because they are conducted virtually. However, this competition is only for females and GNC (gender non-conforming) drummers and beatmakers who want to celebrate, elevate, and cultivate their talent, and maybe make friends with their competitors, too. All ages from around the world can join.

2. Guitar Center Drum-Off – United States

This may be the name of the competition, but it is a drum contest as well. This event is a world-renowned drum competition that offers prizes that can catapult you to fame or allow you to start your professional drumming career. 

The entire grand package is worth over $45,000, but comprises a $25,000 cash prize, plus a branded electronic drum kit, a high-end drum kit of a brand of your choice, a full setup of drumsticks with cymbals and drumheads, endorsement deals from brands, and so much more.

Winners have been given the opportunity to play with none other than international talents, such as Jay-Z and Beyoncé!

3. World Drum Contest – Spain

If you don’t mind traveling to Europe, then you should be part of the World Drum Contest in Spain. 

Hosted as part of the annual Tam-Tam Drumfest in Seville, the World Drum Contest is a high-energy competition that welcomes drummers of all genres and styles. The entry process begins online with performance video submissions, and finalists are flown to Spain to battle it out live.

4. Big Bang Drum Contest – Brazil

South America is not just a soccer continent, but it also brings serious flair to the drumming world, and Brazil’s Big Bang Drum Contest is proof of that. Open to drummers of all ages and backgrounds, this online-based competition has become a global phenomenon thanks to its engaging format and world-class judging panel. You just need a submit a performance video and wait for the judges to stand up and take notice of your superb drumming skills. 

5. World’s Fastest Drummer – Global

Now, here’s the drumming talent that wants to be different. The World’s Fastest Drummer competition is also global, but is actually a Guinness World Records-supported contest to determine not only the most talented, but also the fastest drum player in the world. If you are willing to be featured on Guinness, of course. 

Tips Before You Join a Drumming Competition

But, before you fly to the country that hosts a drumming competition and show, or before you submit your performance video, here are some things to remember:

It’s alright to start small. You cannot win a big competition if you don’t lose your battles at first. Whether what you have are budget cymbal packs for practice kits or those drum sets from popular brands, there are frustrating moments, but treat them as challenges. 

Second, know the rules and judging criteria. The mechanics of one contest can be different from those of another. You may bring in raw talent to the table, but if you miss the rules, like missing the terms and conditions of an online game, you’ll put your efforts to waste.

Practice under pressure. Like when a valedictorian and salutatorian practice their speech in front of the mirror, you must rehearse your performance piece just like rehearsing an audition piece for a show.

Polish your setup plus your transitions. Make sure your drum kit is properly tuned, and double-check hardware stability. Smooth transitions between sections or solos show professionalism and can make a big impact on judges.

Drumming competitions offer more than bragging rights—they open doors to new connections, global exposure, and personal growth. Whether you’re in it to win or just looking to get feedback from the pros, there’s real value in putting yourself out there. Be the drummer you want to be on stage.