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May 2018 Issue – Volume 42 • Number 5

The concept of tension and release is fundamental to any style of music. Creating moments of musical conflict followed by resolution, either through compositional or performance devices, can be satisfying and interesting both for the listener and the performer. Incorporating syncopated rhythms, dynamic changes, busier subdivisions, or dissonant harmonies are some of the many ways to create musical tension. In this lesson, we’ll explore methods to create tension and release by using five-note phrases.
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Articles in May 2018

Up-Tempo Studies

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How to Play Odd Time Signatures

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The 42nd Annual Percussive Arts Society International Convention and Cascio Music Drummerfest 2017

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Smashing Pumpkins’ Jimmy Chamberlin

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John McLaughlin’s Ranjit Barot

Drumming in the 4th Dimension

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Paramore’s Zac Farro

Spending your teenage years making records and touring the world on a rocket ship to stardom is every young musician’s fantasy. Choosing to jump off that rocket while it’s still on a steady ascent may seem like madness. For this…

Story by David Ciauro | Photos by Lindsey Byrnes
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Finding a Balance

Drummers often grapple with certain questions or problems that could be answered by simply finding the right balance between two choices. For example, a popular debate among drummers is the choice between using traditional or matched grip. Or some players…

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Lightweight and weather-resistant shell with a big, robust sound.

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Ray Lucas and Frank Capp Remembered

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by Ilya Stemkovsky
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Zildjian - K Sweet Series Cymbals

Larger, darker, and thinner cymbals with just enough transparency and brightness to sit comfortably in any mix.

by Michael Dawson
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