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.
Drum Design Knowledge, Part 1: Hoops
I get many emails about equipment issues. Some are related to what gear to choose for different gigs, some are about why I use certain pieces, and some concern tuning. I’ve been involved in the design of gear for more…
Building Confidence - The Right Kind, the Right Way
I recently performed a gig with the great comedian Bob Newhart where I was sight-reading big band charts with him and his opening act. I’ve done shows with Bob many times over the years. They don’t have a ton of…
Concepts - Developing Good Time
Many drummers are capable of playing good time even though they may not know exactly how they developed this ability.
Hone Your Human GPS - Setting Goals, Defining Problems, and Devising Solutions
I’ve researched how people define GPS as it relates to the human condition, and I think best-selling author Jim Samuels’ philosophy is the simplest and most effective take. Samuels’ formula involves goals, problems, and solutions. We set goals and then…
Concepts - Rudiments: For or Against?
Talking to drummers about the rudiments is much like talking to the average person about politics.
Concepts - The World's Greatest Drummer—And Other Hang-Ups
I've been asked many times, while presenting clinics,
Concepts - Drum Solos
Most people, including most drummers, like a good drum solo. By good, I mean a solo that is rhythmical, musical, well constructed, well executed, in tempo and relates to the musical context in which it is played. TO READ THE…
Do I Need an Attorney? Part 2: Navigating Contract Negotiations
In last month’s column, we discussed whether or not you should hire a lawyer for your business dealings. This time we dive a bit deeper into a few specific topics that you may have to deal with at some point…
Concepts - Heroes
All young musicians have heroes or people they admire. Musicians learn from and often emulate their heroes. This is an important part of the learning process, especially in the early stages. TO READ THE FULL STORY: SUBSCRIBE TO ACCESS LOG…
Concepts - Teachers, Studying and Learning
There are many opinions and points of view (pro and con) about studying with a private drum teacher. Drummers who have never taken a lesson frequently criticize drum teachers. Drum teachers criticize each other, sometimes privately, sometimes publicly. Young drummers…
Concepts - Are You Playing the Drums?
This month’s quote represents a classic sentiment that seasoned drummers often feel necessary to share with younger players. By this stage in my career, I’ve witnessed many occasions when it would have been useful to repeat—at a clinic, for instance,…
