If at all possible you should take lessons. I don't know how many articles/interviews with world class drummers I've read that have this common thread...they have, and/or still are, taking lessons. Along with offering an expanded understanding of your instrument, lessons give a firm foundation to draw upon for the rest of your life.

Let's examine for a moment what a "lesson" is. My definition of a lesson is one person sharing their ideas, or concepts with another person. Also, to go one more step, it is one person, namely the student, being open to new ideas and remaining flexible enough to accept and incorporate those ideas into their playing style. I believe if you think your playing ability is such that you've already "risen" beyond the need for lessons then consequentially you've shut the door to broadening your horizons. DON'T LET YOUR EGO LIMIT YOU! I know guys who've been playing, and playing well, for 20, 30 years or more that will take a lesson from time to time. No man is an island unto himself, everyone needs other people to bounce new ideas, and concepts off of. Think of it as being coached. Their are no major sports, or sports figures today that do not have some form of coaching staff, people who are dedicated in doing nothing else but improving their team's, or an individual's performance. What if John McEnroe had never had a personal trainer? Do you think he'd be the household name he is today? Doubt it.

The key to having good results from taking lessons is finding someone who fits the direction you want to go. This is very subjective, and keep in mind there are different avenues to take that will still place you in the same destination at the end. Personally, I've taken lessons from a guy who specializes in big band music and although I enjoy that type of music have never had the occasion to play it. But, due to his excellent technique and knowledge I came away richer from the experience.

Also, when and if you do decide to take lessons begin by looking for the instructor right for you. You might start by asking some of the better local drummer's in your area. Good drummer's in most areas know each other and are usually in tight circles. Tell your instructor what you want to get out of the learning experience, both long and short term. Develop these goals together so you're in synch, and then work together for the end result. This may help both you and your instructor to focus your time together more efficiently, bringing your goals to fruition quicker.