"I can think of a lot better things to do with my hands than to cut them up on the rim of a drum"

This quote by Buddy Rich is a metaphor for the effort and dedication that goes into mastering a musical instrument. He is saying that it takes a great deal of practice and ability to be able to play an instrument well, and that it is not something that can be done quickly. He is stressing the importance of putting in the effort and time to discover an instrument, rather than just attempting to manage with very little effort. He is also recommending that it is better to utilize your hands to develop something gorgeous, instead of to waste them on something that is not worth the effort. This quote is a pointer that hard work and commitment are vital to becoming an excellent artist.