How do you know if you are an intermediate drummer?

I think every drummer asks themselves this question at some point, especially when you are a beginner. It can be hard to know how to self assess your level, but let me offer up some guidance. 

I want to start with a video from Drumeo (which got me thinking about this a lot). 

He lays out 9 things to consider... 

1. Confidently improvise with other musicians

2. Learn top 40 songs relatively easily

3. Solid understanding of basic drum technique

4. Accurate rim shots

5. Know the different strokes

6. Dynamic limb independence

7. Internal metronome

8. Serve the song

9. Maintain a beginner mindset

I certainly agree with all these points, but want to add a few more that I think are just as important.

10. Know the basics of a variety of music styles

11. Know how to tune and maintain a drum set

12. Play even sounding doubles

13. Count every subdivision

14. The ability to teach yourself

For me, these are the key tenets when I teach. Every exercise is meant to build on these skills and over time hopefully you will feel like an intermediate player. So if you are a beginner, or have played for years, it's a good idea to regularly check in on yourself. Go through this list, and if there are weaknesses, those are the important things to focus your practice on.