When I made the shift from a drum kit to marching percussion, one of the first things I noticed was the change in technique, especially with the grip and stroke. In marching percussion, you often use a traditional grip, especially with the snare, which is different from the matched grip on a drum kit. It can definitely take some getting used to.
Focusing on rudiments is a great way to ease into marching percussion. Rudiments are the foundation of playing in a marching band and practicing them regularly can improve your control and precision. Exercises like the paradiddle, flam, and double stroke roll are essential and can be practiced on a practice pad before transitioning to the drum.
For equipment, if you're starting out, brands like Ludwig and Pearl offer quality beginner-friendly options that have a balanced combination of affordability and sound. The Pearl Competitor series, for instance, is often recommended for those new to marching percussion.
Overall, dedicating time to practice with a metronome and focusing on those rudiments will really help you make the transition smooth. And you might want to consider joining a local community band or attending workshops to get some firsthand experience in a marching setting. It's a different world from playing in a rock band, but incredibly rewarding!