My Drum Exam - The Aftermath

I had my drum exam on Monday. It was kind of bad.
1) I was nervous and had a bad start to my first segment. (Exam consists of 4 segments in all)
I missed out the bass right at the beginning. This then caused me to be slightly off the tune even though I got it back quickly. This never was a problem during my usual practice sessions. Must be all the anxiety.

2) One of the other segment didn't go as well. Partly it's my drum instructor's fault. He told us specifically what would be tested, but in the end, that was not tested. A different rhythm was tested and it was a slightly tricky one. I wasn't well prepared and so couldn't execute the sticking coherently. My worst segment.

3) The other 2 went OK IMO. But I guess the first two was bad enough and these two can only help salvage the whole exam.

Overall, I am kind of disappointed. Even if I were to pass this exam (result out 2 weeks later), I know I didn't perform as well. My friend commented I was quite rigid in my playing, which I admit. Dunno the reason, I guess I am too focused on the technical part of drumming (ie. reading notes and making sure I execute all the right stickings) rather than grooving along to the music and enjoying myself drumming away.

I will carry on of course. Ultimately, I would want to be part of a worship band in my church. Just hope I learn to let go of my 'technical' self and learn to let my creativity take over in my drumming and learn from the mistakes along the way.

Jia U!