I'm new to the forums and am considering taking up drums but wanted to ask for some info. I currently play guitar (just a bedroom player) but have developed really bad arthritis which is severely limiting my ability to play. It looks like I might have to quit playing altogether but would still like to make music so am considering taking up the drums.
But before I do that I wanted to ask - how hard is drumming on the hands? The arthritis is in my fingers and, just thinking about it, I think drumming might be OK because my fingers won't be required to move like they do playing guitar...I can basically just make fists to hold the sticks (I know that the grip isn't exactly a fist, but it is close enough for discussion purposes). Does this seem reasonable or am I out to lunch here? Is there any other advice anyone can give about playing drums with arthritic fingers? I don't want to give up music entirely and cannot think of another instrument to play.
Also, if I do take up drums how effective are the dampeners that can be put on drums and cymbals? Do they deaden the noise enough that you can practice when other people are home without disturbing them or do they just diminish the sound a bit?
Sorry if these questions are dumb, but I know nothing about drumming and want to get info before I sell off my guitars and buy a kit.