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.
Drumming And Burnout
A number of years ago, I had a student who was determined to become the world's greatest drummer.
Careers In Drumming
Virtually every young drummer dreams of being a star at one time or another. We would all like to see ourselves on stage whipping out a dazzling drum solo for thousands of adoring and screaming fans. We can imagine what…
Drumming And Experience
One of the most frustrating things for a young drummer to hear is, “Kid, you have talent. Get some experience, and come back and see me,” or the equally discouraging, “You play well, but you lack experience.” I have seen…
Drumming And Electronic Drums
Drummers have different ideas and attitudes toward electronic drums. For example, I have heard drummers say, “The electronic drums are great; I don’t need acoustic drums any longer.” I have also heard the comment, “Those things sound awful. I refuse…
Drumming And Self-Discipline
To some people, self-discipline is a term that carries unpleasant connotations. It may mean “forcing” yourself to do something you hate to do. It may also mean suppressing feelings or ideas, because they are not acceptable to someone else. To…
Drumming And The Big Move
Every now and then, I receive a letter from a frustrated young drummer. Many of the letters say something like: “I have been playing for X amount of years. I’ve taken some lessons, but my reading needs improvement. I play…
Dueling Drumsets
Back in the ’50s, Jazz At The Philharmonic presented a “drum battle” featuring Gene Krupa and Buddy Rich. To my knowledge, it was the first time they had appeared together. It was an exciting event, and it generated great interest…
Drumming And The Big Break
Young drummers often ask the question, “How did you get your big break?” In my own case, it started when I met Louie Bellson in Kansas City. Louie was visiting the drum studio where I was taking lessons. He played…
Drumming And Recording
A red light means “go,” but only in the music business. In every recording studio, the red light means “musicians at work.” The red light means it is time to be serious. The red light means this is a “take.”…
International Drummers’ Meeting
For the third year in a row, Drumland (a division of the Pro Sound music chain in Germany) recently presented their International Drummers’ Meeting in Koblenz. The director of Drumland—and host for this event—is Jurge Mader. Each year, Jurge brings…
Drumming And Sitting In
A young friend of mine from Massachusetts recently told me the following story. He was working in a club with the group he usually plays with. A man came up to him and asked if he could sit in. My…
