Concepts
Modern Drummer is the world’s most widely read drum magazine, is dedicated entirely to the art of drumming and caters to the needs of amateur, semi-pro, and professional drummers.
The Importance of Writing Notation
We have all heard that it’s very beneficial for drummers to learn how to read music. I completely agree. For me, it was one of the many game changers for my drumming. Learning to understand basic notation gave me the…
Practice Like a Pro
How to Maximize Your Time Behind the Kit The purpose of the article is to share some helpful practice tips that I’ve picked up over the years. These ideas work amazingly well when you’re learning new material for a gig.…
Individuality
Part 1: Where Did It Go? Individuality is defined as the unique characteristics and traits that make someone or something one of a kind. I thought a discussion about being yourself was important to bring up, and I will be…
What Now?
As I write this, we are smack dab in the middle of the COVID crisis. This pandemic has affected us all now for many months. I mention this because it’s had a massive impact on musicians working in touring and…
On Preparation
In short, preparation is the mark of a true professional. TO READ THE FULL STORY: LOG IN Digital Access $4.99 /month or $49.99 /year SAVE 15% Digital Monthly Magazine 47 Years of Archives (500+ Issues) 40+ Drum Channel Subscribe Now…
Son Of The One-Handed Roll
What has happened is that semantics have created a communication problem. What these teachers refer to as a
Professionalism
Being a truly professional drummer involves more than just making all or part of your living playing the drums. It is an attitude that is developed through experience and self-discipline.
Drumming And The Practice Pad
Some drummers hate practice pads; others are never without them. Some teachers recommend practice pads; others say that you should practice on the drums.
Teaching By Intimidation
Imagine how you would feel if, on your first drum lesson with a new teacher, the teacher said,
More Questions And Some Answers
I find that there are young drummers today asking some of the same questions, as well as some new ones. So I thought it was about time to address a few of those questions. TO READ THE FULL STORY: LOG…
Perseverance
When successful people in all walks of life are asked how they achieved their success, they almost always attribute it to perseverance. TO READ THE FULL STORY: LOG IN Digital Access $4.99 /month or $49.99 /year SAVE 15% Digital Monthly…
Getting Unstuck
I have a few students who are accomplished, professional drummers. I always ask them, “Why are you here? You play well, and you’re working. How can I help you?” In almost every case, the response is, “I just feel stuck.…
Mousey Alexander — Drumming And Courage
In 1957, I was scheduled for an audition with Benny Goodman's band at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City.
