Education
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Do Big Name Drummers Really Play Better?
I have heard people say, when speaking of another drummer, “He is as good as any big name drummer. He just never got a break.” I have also heard this comment, “The only difference between one drummer and another is…
Transferring African Rhythms
One of the most interesting drum lessons that I’ve ever had was when Kwaku Dadey showed me how to transfer African rhythms to the drumset. Kwaku plays traditional African music on his tuned conga drums in much the same manner…
Rick Allen: "Rock of Ages
This month we feature “Rock of Ages” from Def Leppard’s Pyromania album. Rick Allen keeps the beat solid and tight on this. TO READ THE FULL STORY: SUBSCRIBE TO ACCESS LOG IN
Foundation Studies for Big Band Fills
Before dealing with specifics, it is important to have some general ideas about what a fill should be and what a fill should do. The fill must be in time. It should not rush or drag. The fill should maintain…
Cubby O'Brien
The fact that show drummers receive comparatively little recognition is an enigma to me considering that they are some of the hardest working musicians. Their ability to play a variety of styles must be masterful; their sense of theatrics and…
A Beat Study
The following musical examples comprise what I term a “beat study.” It is by no means exhaustive (every possible variation), but simply presents related time feels. Bar 1 is the pattern on which all the others are based. The focus…
Drumming and Discouragement
Most of us get frustrated and discouraged at one time or another. It is difficult to keep your spirits up when there are no jobs in sight. Furthermore, it is difficult to keep practicing and rehearsing when your career is…
Alan Schwartzberg
BB: Where and when did you first hear drums? AS: I was ten years old and on my way home from school in the Bronx. I passed a house and heard a drummer playing a Gene Krupa/Cozy Cole-like solo. I…
Mel Lewis "Tiptoe"
From Consummation, by the Thad Jones & Mel Lewis Orchestra. TO READ THE FULL STORY: SUBSCRIBE TO ACCESS LOG IN
Practicing And Boredom
One problem that all drummers face sooner or later is being bored while practicing. In the early years there are several reasons for being bored. First of all, the exercises for beginning drummers require dedication because they are so elementary.…
Triplets With Buzz Rolls
Going from single strokes to buzz (multiple rebound) strokes requires a different pressure, which is controlled primarily with the fingers. The important thing to remember here is that “pressure” does not mean “rigidity” or “tension.” So these exercises, then, will…
"Lowdown In The Street"
“Lowdown In The Street” From the album Deguello (Warner Brothers HS-3361) Since the late ’60s, ZZ Top has amassed a huge following, with their Texas-style blend of blues, boogie, and heavy metal. This power trio is featured here with “Lowdown…
Trying Easy
Some years ago in New York, during my studies with RUDI (Swami Rudrananda), one of the students made the following comment: “I am really trying hard, but I am not improving.” RUDI replied, “You must learn to try easy.” We…
Steve Mitchell
Steve Mitchell is one of the San Francisco Bay Area's busiest studio drummers. TO READ THE FULL STORY: SUBSCRIBE TO ACCESS LOG IN
