Drummer

Top 5 Of All Time Rock N Roll Drum Solos That You Must See

2012-01-30T14:09:00.001+07:00

by: Ian Fraser
The drums are often thought of as solely a back ground instrument in rock and pop music. How ever the five songs I list below have some of the greatest stand out drum solos of all time.

From John Bonham of Led Zeppelin to Neil Pear of Rush, these drummers know how to make the most of their instrument and have brought the drums from a background instrument sitting behind the other musicians on stage to the fore front where they should be.

Moby Dick – Led Zeppelin - John Bohnam

If you're a drummer and you haven't heard this outstanding drum solo by John Bonham go do it right now. Stop what you're doing and head over to YouTube and find a clip. There are different live versions of this solo lasting any where from a couple of minutes literally up to 10 minutes. It's absolutely amazing what he can do on the drums, actually dropping his sticks and using his bare hands at a certain point in some live performances.

Hot for Teacher - Van Halen - Alex Van Halen

From the very start of this song as Alex Van Halen is rolling away on the toms to when the guitar begins at about 30 seconds in the drums drive this song all the way through. It's fast, it's rhythmic, it's awesome. This has been a drum solo that many drummers have learned to play and pride themselves on showing it off to their friends.

YYZ (Live) - Rush - Neil Pear

This song is a drumming adventure. Neil Pear plays an amazing beat all the way through the song but his solo during live performances of this song was outstanding. Versions of this solo live could last two to six minutes depending on the performance starting with a rumble on the toms and working it's way into a snare and kick drum frenzy.

Wipe Out - The Ventures - Mel Taylor

This is classic instrumental song was covered by The Ventures, an instrumental surf band in 1965 on their live album. This song is quite literally a drum solo all the way through since the drums play such a huge part of tune. What's even more amazing about the drum solos in this song is size of the drum kit being used. In comparison to what some of the later rock drummers had to work with Mel Taylor had a very small drum kit to work with to make all that noise.

Heartbreaker - Led Zeppelin - John Bonham

We have John Bonham again on this list, this time in the classic blues rock tune Heartbreaker by Led Zeppelin. John was one of the most prolific drummers of the rock and blues genre and this solo is just another testament to his skill on the instrument.
Top 5 All Time Rock N Roll Drum Solos

Cool Drum Techniques - Heel Toe, Flat Foot and Slide Bass Drum

2011-12-31T13:06:00.002+07:00

In this video, Jared Falk, Dave Atkinson, and Sean Lang discuss bass drum technique. Techniques include, slide technique, flat foot technique, heel-toe technique and developing fast single stroke on the bass drum.
Enjoy this Drum lesson Video.

Cool Drum Techniques - Heel Toe, Slide, and Flat Foot Bass Drum

Cool Drum Techniques - Heel Toe, Slide, and Flat Foot Bass Drum

Drum Handling Equipment

2011-11-30T15:47:00.000+07:00

by Easylift
At present time most of the consumers depend upon Drum handling equipment on day-to-day basis to manufacture their products. They are among the securest equipments and also easiest and ergonomics to utilize by the manipulator. Carriers, dollies, cradles, dumpers and lifters are the basic categories for it. Moreover, it also renders to study the relation between workers and their environments with difficultnesses experienced while treating heavy materials from the cargo ships wharf door by yielding and packaging.

For the reposition of drums there are some outlines agenda for controlling the objects for example drums pallets, cradle systems and racks. Those manufacture that supervise and transfer the weighty magnitude of materials quickly and excusive of all the intricacy with the aid of these drums which can be further incredibly successful. It's a bemused chore to move such heavy materials for the employees from one place to another that too without proper equipments.
Some of the commonly and widely used drums handling equipments are:
Drum Positioners: BDRUM series of it can rotate drums, it allows the truck driver to capsize position drums into the straight position, and it is designed for the use of approximately 30 to 50 gallon of steel drums.
Drum Forklift Carrier: BHORIZ series of horizontal drum forklift carriers; it is designed to load up and drop off open or closed head drums. It is used to move the steel drums up to 55 gallon.
Pail crusher: It breaks down the steel pails rapidly and competently. It comprises of force release device, hydraulic ram, emergency button of stop.
It lowers the medical claim and loss of output. Drum Handling Equipment has some extraordinary device features which will reconcile any constructing requirements. The various forms are estimated to manage some of the unusual aim and are manufactured for any industry's requisites at a reasonable price. Portable drum dumpers, pail dispensers drum carrier, drum hand truck, Drum cart, drum hand cradle, drum caddies and many more are some of the extensively employed models of it.
Drum handling equipments are not simply the securest apparatus but also one of the easy and simple methods to transfer and it is a time saver as well. These instrumentalities, guard the worker's backbones from persistently painstaking lifting or movements as these drums are more risk-free to utilize, as well as lessens accidental falls. Strained backs pinched or severed finger and lacerations are some injuries associated with moving drums manually. But one can get rid off from all these injuries by drum handling equipment which eradicates the probable industrial injuries.
Drum Handling Equipment

Drum Lessons For Young Kids - Child Drummer Tips

2011-10-23T15:52:00.000+07:00

by John Kirby Ryan
Music is influential in every person's life. It can change your life. It is powerful, with just a few notes it can ignite ones spirit. You listen to a favorite song and you find yourself swaying to the beat or singing along. Making your own music intensifies the joy. Giving your child that power, that pleasure of making his or her own music is the best gift any parent could give to their child. Music is an influential tool that your child could use; it is one of the best ways for self-expression and an invaluable outlet for emotions.

You should ask your child what instrument he wants to play or whatever he or she is comfortable with, let your child try different instruments and see where her or his interest lies. The popular choice of musical instrument among kids today is drums. Drumming is a versatile and rewarding musical interest. I know what you are thinking, when you think of drums that usually means loud. Drums indeed can be very loud but with proper drum lessons and guidance from a music teacher, your child would learn how to play properly. They would discover that one could play faster and more accurately by playing softly.

Playing the drums does not mean needlessly banging sticks on a surface; it takes patience and skill to play one. A great advantage when your child starts taking drum lessons is that it builds good hand-eye coordination and gives your child a great sense of rhythm. Another great thing about learning how to play the drums is that your child can get a good workout while playing. When we look at drummers performing, we see him moving almost all his body parts while he plays. And the best thing about signing up your child for drums lessons? Seeing your child having fun playing the drums while gaining knowledge and developing new skills.

There are many benefits a child could get through music lessons. It would help them develop their memory. Music stimulates certain parts of the brain, which helps them improve academically. Music also helps your child develop good work ethic. Learning how to play an instrument is not easy. It requires hard work and practice but one that gives your child a healthy and positive self-esteem. Drum lessons is one of the best activity you could give to your child. And one that they would definitely enjoy.

Popular Brands of Drums

2011-09-28T16:37:00.000+07:00

by Victor Epand
Drums can be divided into many types. Some of the common types of drums which are most frequently used are bass drums, acoustic drums, electronic drums and many more. The basic drum kit consists of a bass drum, floor toms, cymbals, tambourines, woodblocks, cowbells, electronic drum pads that trigger sampled sounds, and other accessory instruments. Since there are many different drum manufacturers on the market, choosing a new drum set can be a little challenging. So, the best way to solve this problem is to get more and more information about the different kinds of drums and its components available in the market. It also helps a lot to get as much information about the various manufacturers and their respective brands of drums as well. Some of the well known brands of drums are being discussed in this article.

Different brands of drums Yamaha- Yamaha first manufactured drums in 1968. In 1993 Yamaha came out with the Yamaha Enhanced Sustain System, known as YESS, for mounting drums. Early Yamaha drum equipment borrowed concepts from Ludwig drum set models. But it soon acquired a place among the top drum manufacturers and led the industry with its unique and innovative shell construction and finished techniques. YESS hardware minimizes shell to mount contact, allowing maximum drum resonance. In addition to making acoustic drum kits and hardware, Yamaha is also a major manufacturer of best selling electronic drums in the world. Popular Yamaha electronic drums are the Yamaha DTXpress, Yamaha DTXpress Special, and Yamaha DTXreme. Tama- Tama made the first multi-clamp hardware, letting drummers easily extend their drum sets. Tama manufacture first focused on drum hardware, whose demand was increasing due to the rise of rock music, which required sturdy equipment for loud playing. Tama introduced the first boom cymbal stand in production and led the industry with rugged double braced 36 inch tripods. DW- Drum Workshop or DW in short, is the leading new American drum company that offers a large variety of snare drum shell materials including aluminum, copper, steel, brass, brass and maple combination, a great selection of lacquered finishes, and various types of rims. In 1980, DW patented the chain and sprocket bass drum pedal drive system, which is the industry standard today. 1980s Drum Workshop also led the industry in manufacturing of double bass pedals based on their 5000 series.

Today, DW is a leading custom drum manufacturer. Ludwig- The Ludwig Company was established in America by two German-born brothers, the older William F. and the younger Theobald Ludwig. William F. designed pedals capable of fast tempos and high power, and had them made out of wood by a cabinet maker.
The Ludwig & Ludwig Company started out by mass producing durable metal versions of pedals of William's. Ludwig drums were selling strong throughout the 1920s, but the invention of the talking movie, which decreased demand for live percussion, and the US market crash in 1929 severely curtailed Ludwig sales. Pearl- Pearl drums, manufactured by the Pearl Instrument Company, are the most widely used drum kits today. In 1966 Pearl introduced the first professional drums kit under the Pearl name, the Pearl President. Pearl then became the first Japanese drum brand to make it in the United States and UK.
Today pearl drums are manufactured in the United States, Taiwan, and Japan, with a corporate headquarters in Chiba, Japan.

Popular Brands of Drums

Drum Tuning & Changing Drum Head Tips Video Online

2011-09-04T09:26:00.002+07:00

Important! The Drummer must see How To Tune Your Drums & Change Drumheads
This is drum technique video very useful for Drummer. Many Drummer only know how to drumming but do not know some tips for tuning drumset.
If you want to know how to tune & change drum head just watch ! Jared Falk & Dave Atkinson talk about how to properly tune your drum-set and show how to choose & change drumheads.

How To Tune Your Drums & Change Drumheads Part1

How To Tune Your Drums & Change Drumheads Part2

Great Information Regarding The Beginner's Drum Kit | Free Drum Tip Online

2011-08-30T09:12:00.000+07:00

by Trude Heskestad

Perhaps you have always wished for being a fantastic drummer? Would you like to learn how to take part in the drums like rock legends, Travis Barker of Blink 182 and Lars Ulrich of Metallica? Should you replied indeed to those requests, it may be time to search for your individual drum kit or drum set.

It might appear very simple to buy a drum system but it's not. Additionally you have to keep in mind that the cheapest drum set can cost you some money. So anticipate to bring 400 to a single,1000 dollars when you're looking for a beginner's drum kit. In order to go for more cost effective drum sets, you'll be able to always attempt shopping for used drum equipments.
Therefore, here are some of that which you need to take into consideration before you purchase a drum kit. By continuing to keep these issues in your mind, it is possible to purchase the finest drum set that you should learn to take part in the drums on.

When just beginning drummer, you need to begin with an amateur drum kit. While mastering ways to take part in the drums, you don't have to purchase drum collections that specialists employ. The starter or basic drum kit might have everything you have to start learning how to play your drums. A further essential accessories comes after whenever you learn the fundamentals.
The standard beginner's drum kit features a snare drum, a bass drum, two mounted toms, along with a floor tom. The cymbals won't be contained in the set you'll also find to buy them separately. For that cymbals, you need a hi-hat, an accident, and also a ride. These items are sufficient that you should start playing drums in a beginner level.
This components consists of the holders, pedals, as well as the drum chair or also known as the throne.
If you're able to, try purchasing a medium or professional quality drum pedal and drum seat. A newcomer drum seat and pedals may break easily.
It's also advisable to research just a little in regards to the drum kits that are offered on the market. Compare the conventional for a review of reviews in addition to check out the prices. Obtain a set that you're confident with in addition to get a store having a knowledgeable staff to ensure that one to i believe information on which kind of drum kit you need to choose.
As you can tell, it's fairly simple to buy your first drum set or drum kit. Using a research session, you'll be able to find the correct drum set that you ought to learn how to take part in the drums on.
Remember that while you possess a professional drum kit, you will not have the ability to play such as the way the rock legends do. You have to go a stride at any given time and you will in addition try getting proper lessons in the professional drummer. They'll be capable of educate you on the basics and obtain you prepared to rock on jam sessions together with your friends.
Great Information Regarding The Beginner's Drum Kit| Free Drum Tip Online

Drum Tip - Learning How To Make A Drum Set Pays Off

2011-07-29T08:51:00.000+07:00

5 Key Reasons To Learn Drum Building.
by John Dutra

Learning how to make a drum set is easier than you think, and the pay-off is huge.
And yes.. I'm talking about professional grade custom drum sets, not a pots-and-pans kit that the children can play on.
It doesn't matter how old you are, how much drum building experience you have or how good of a drummer you are. One of my clients who bought the Guerrilla Drum Making DVD built an entire custom drum set in his apartment in Japan. Another one is about 10 years old and learnt how to make a snare drum.
I could go on forever, but here's my 5 key reasons why you should take the D.I.Y. drums route and learn how to make a drum set.

#1. Drum Building Saves You Money: You will save up to 70% of your money by buying drum supplies and making your own drums rather than ordering a customized drum set from a notable drum company. I've seen price quotes as high as $5,000 for a drum kit that would cost you $1,700 to make.
#2. Save a Ton of Time: The first customized drum set I bought was from major drum company Drum Workshop (DW) that took 8 months to get to me.
How long would it take you to make a drum set or custom snare drum? Honestly... tough question to answer. I've made a five piece custom drum set in one day after getting the products a week after ordering them. Not bad. 240 Days versus 8 days? I'll take the latter... it gets me behind my new drum set way faster.
#3. Create Your Own Drum Set: Fit the look of your drum set to your own personality, match the image of your band, replicate a drum set you've always wanted or once had.
And you have the ability to hunt down all the products you want for the drums of your dreams. Wood shells, metal shells, acrylic shells, hybrid drum shells... you name it. Whether your aiming for a studio kit, a set for the rehearsal room or a set that's going to get the beeating of life on tour, you can easily fit your drum kit to the drumming lifestyle you live.
#4. It's Fun: The entire drum making process from seeing your vision, to bringing it to life is a blast. And lets not forget the most rewarding part: getting behind that brand new drum kit.
#5. Learn Drum Making For Life: Once you find out how easy custom drum making is, you'll have the ability to add to your drum set whenever an extra drum needs to be used, build a snare drum for your upcoming studio recording, build drum sets for your colleagues, and more.
Learning how to make a drum set is like that ancient proverb: "Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime."

Drum Tip - Learning How To Make A Drum Set Pays Off

Phil Collins Live - Finally The First Farewell Tour | Watch Free Concert Videos Online

2011-07-07T08:56:00.002+07:00

Phil Collins' performance from Paris that formed part of the Final Farewell Tour. The 2-DVD set not only includes the live performances, but is also jam-packed with 22 promotional music video clips from the singles played during the concert. In fact-music videos from of his Billboard #1Singles are here:
"Against All Odds," "One More Night," "Separate Lives," "Sussudio," "A Groovy Kind of Love," Another Day in Paris," and "Two Hearts." And if that isn't enough, the DVD also features backstage and documentary footage plus a photo gallery.

Phil Collins Live - Finally The First Farewell Tour Part 1 | Watch Free Concert Videos Online
78.48 minutes

If this video is not showing up, You can also see this video here
Track Listing:
1. Drums, Drums & More Drums
2. Something Happened On the Way to Heaven
3. Against All Odds
4. Don't Lose My Number
5. Chat to Audience
6. You'll Be In My Heart
7. One More Night
8. Can't Stop Loving You
9. Hang in Long Enough
10. True Colors
11. Come With Me
12. Groovy Kind of Love
13. I Missed Again
14. Another Day in Paradise
15. No Way Out
16. Separate Lives

See Phil Collins Live - Finally The First Farewell Tour Part 2

Philip David Charles Collins, LVO (born 30 January 1951 Chiswick, London) is an English singer-songwriter, drummer and actor best known as the lead singer and drummer of English progressive rock group Genesis and as a Grammy and Academy Award-winning solo artist. He has also appeared in several films.

Collins sang the lead vocals on eight American chart-toppers between 1984 and 1989; seven as a solo artist and one with Genesis. His singles, often dealing with lost love, ranged from the drum-heavy "In the Air Tonight", to the dance pop of "Sussudio", to the political statements of his most successful song, "Another Day In Paradise". His international popularity transformed Genesis from a progressive rock group to a regular on the pop charts and an early MTV mainstay. Collins' professional career began as a drummer, first with obscure rock group Flaming Youth and then more famously with Genesis. In Genesis, Collins originally supplied backing vocals for front man Peter Gabriel, singing lead on only two songs: "For Absent Friends" from 1971's Nursery Cryme album and "More Fool Me" from Selling England by the Pound, which was released in 1973. On Gabriel's departure in 1975, Collins became the group's lead singer. As the decade closed, Genesis's first international hit, "Follow You, Follow Me", demonstrated a drastic change from the band's early years. His concurrent solo career, heavily influenced by his personal life, brought both him and Genesis commercial success. According to Atlantic Records, Collins' total worldwide sales as a solo artist, as of 2002, were 150 million.

Phil Collins website http://www.philcollins.co.uk
Phil Collins Live - Finally The First Farewell Tour | Watch Free Concert Videos Online

History of Drums

2011-06-26T07:48:00.000+07:00

by Victor Epand

History of drums began with the emergence of human civilization. Drum beating as it is popularly known has been associated with the birth of humankind. Drum and bass (commonly abbreviated to DnB, drum n bass and drum and bass) is a sort of electronic dance music also known as jungle. It is also called a membranophone, means an instrument that makes sound by striking a prolonged membrane with some type of object, typically a curved stick.

Drums consist of a hollowed out piece (called the body), a covering extended over the end of the drum, and tuning keys or pegs which stiffens or loosens the membrane to achieve different tones. It is a common notion that the body of the drum generates the sound; it is in fact the membrane and its vibration that creates the sound when struck.

Following the history of drums, it is presumed origination of drums to be as early as in 6000 BC. Mesopotamian excavations discovered small cylindrical drums dated 3000 BC. Inside caves in Peru several wall markings were found which show the use of drums in various aspects of communal life. The American Indians used gourd and wooden constructed drums for their rituals and ceremonies. Drums are not always used for creating music only. It has also been used for communication purpose.

In African tribal cultures (also in the regional culture), drums bore an important part in the use of rituals and religious ceremonies. The people of different African tribes relied on the use of drums to express themselves and important messaging was done through series of drum beats along the length of the jungle. African drums and drummers provided an addictive and unique sound that deeply influenced Western Rock and Roll music

When it was discovered in the history of drums that one player could play two or more drums at the same time, people started placing groups of drums together for one musician to play. The player not only played drums of similar types but also imported from other cultures and around the globe. The early 1930s discovered a newly found trick. Musicians found out with the proper drum placement and a lot of practice, a single player could handle a set of drums, and an entire group of drum players was not necessary anymore. This leads to the origin of the Drum kit.

Double drumming is an important development in the history of drums. Double drumming is one drummer playing more than one drums. Cymbals and tom toms, invented in China were added to drum kits of the drummer, which was fast to accommodate different set of drums. Cowbells, wooden blocks, and chimes which were the percussion additions were incorporated as well. In the flow of the history of drums, by the 1930s the typical drum kit had taken shape with the various instruments in its armory. The kit consisted of a foot pedal and bass drum, snare, hi hat cymbal, tom toms, and large hanging cymbals.

1960s saw the rise of rock drummers, who began the development of drum kits that are the standard today. More toms and cymbals, as well as the accumulation of another bass drum to boost speed were added. Electronic drums then came into being with the intention of creating sounds that traditional drums were unable to generate. The history of drums thus echoed the variable sounds and rhythms of human development.
History of Drums

The importance of a snare drum in the drum set

2011-05-30T16:23:00.001+07:00

by Jerribevington

A snare drum is a common drum in orchestral, bands, and jazz music, it has got two heads. The name snare comes from the rawhide strings that are stretched across the lower head. It was originally called the side drum because the musician would hold it on his waist and play it off to the side. The shape of a is cylindrical. The drum can be played by the drum stick or by any other form of beater like brushes or rutes; they produce a soft vibrating sound from the wires. If the drummer is using a stick he can strike on the head of the drum, the rim or shell. The snares can also be shut off in case the drummer wants to produce a different sound.

Snare drums may be made of wood, metal or acrylic materials. Typically the diameter of a is 14 inches. For any drummer the is the most important in his drum kit. This drum is not just played the most number of times but it also helps the audience and other group members to clearly listen to the beats in all the noise in the auditorium.

Before buying a it is important to look at three things the material, the depth and the diameter. The standard drum is 14 inches. The diameter is the most important of pitch of the drum. Drums with smaller diameter sound higher than drum having larger diameters. A standard is 5 to 5.5" deep .the depth of a simply refers to its height when it is placed on the ground.

Drums which are deeper will have lower pitch. The shell material of the drum can be wood or metal. It can be made of woods like maple, birch and mahogany. African bubinga, walnut and bamboo are also being considered for making drums. It can be made of metal like steel, brass, aluminum and copper. Metals produce harsher tones while woods produce a much warmer tones.
The importance of a snare drum in the drum set

Beat Making - Drums For Beginners

2011-05-22T12:50:00.000+07:00

by Rhapsodist

There is one thing that just about every single beat has: drums. Drums are the first thing enter your sound library; It was the first thing I added to my sound library. There are many drum kits out there, which most are named after big name producers, like Kanye West, Dr. Dre, ect. The nice thing about having these kits is that your beats might start to sound similar to these producers. The obvious con is that it will not sound original. Also, you'll realize that these kits have old sounds. Drum kits are a great place to begin, but as you continue on your journey as a beat maker, you'll want to stay away from these, or use them as little as possible in your beats.

The best way to go here is get a drummer. Record your own drum sounds and use them in your instrumentals. Most don't have access to a drum set, or don't have the cash to hire a drummer, so the next best thing to do is sample your sounds. Find some drums in songs and chop these up and add it to your sound library. Drums are everywhere so keep an eye out for them and add them to your own library as you find them. You'll find these will feel much more live and crisp than the big name producer drum libraries. Some producers just loop a break drum and place their other sounds on top of it; A very simple approach, but most of the time these drums sound better than anything you build from a regular drum kit.

Stay away from those big name drum libraries. There are some excellent drum kits out there and I encourage you to use them, but do not depend on these. Chances are you won't find many great libraries. The great ones you do come across, other people have got to them before you. So build your own drum library; this way you'll have a whole library of drums you like, and your beats will sound alot better. Remember that drums are the most significant part of your beat, so you want your drums to sound excellent.
Beat Making - Drums For Beginners

Simon Phillips Gig Drum Technique Video

2011-04-16T08:29:00.000+07:00

Simon Phillips (born February 6, 1957, in London, England) is a prolific English jazz and rock drummer.
See Simon Phillips Show Drumming Technique Video
Musicians :
Anthony Jackson - Bass
Ray Russell - Guitar
Simon Phillips - Drums, Keyboards

Simon Phillips Gig Drum Technique Video

If this video is not showing up, You can also see this video here

Track list
1. Outback
2. Cosmos
3. Force Majeure
4. V8
5. Red Rocks

Simon Phillips Gig Drum Technique Video

Sound X SMI-1458 Electronic Drum Set | Discount Drum Kits

2011-04-11T08:41:00.000+07:00

From Sound X

A great set of electronic drums for beginners, the 7-pad Sound X SMI-1458 drum set offers a rich sound, and it comes with two drumsticks, headphones, and a DVD instruction disc to get you pounding right. You can play up to 215 tones and it comes with 50 preset songs, and you can also hook it up to your computer for recording thanks to the MIDI in/out port.
Discount Drum Kits

Product Details : Sound X SMI-1458 Electronic Drum Set

More : Electronic Drums
Sound X SMI-1458 Electronic Drum Set | Discount Drum Kits

Billy Cobham Live - Jazz Legends Live | Great Jazz Drummer DVD Concert Videos Watch Free

2011-03-16T09:06:00.000+07:00

Billy Cobham Live - Jazz Legends Live | Great Jazz Drummer DVD Concert Videos Watch Free
Billy Cobham is one of those few artists. For over 30 years, he has received international acclaim as the total consummate drummer. Billy Cobhams explosive technique powered some of the fusion genres most important early recordings including groundbreaking efforts by Miles Davis and the Mahavishnu Orchestra before he became an accomplished bandleader in his own right.
Band Billy Cobham Drums, Nippy Noya Percussion, Wolgang Scmidt Bass, Peter Wolpl Guitar, Rita Marcotulli Keyboards, Wayne Cobham Keyboards.

Billy Cobham Live - Jazz Legends Live | Great Jazz Drummer DVD Concert Videos Watch Free

Billy Cobham Live - Jazz Legends Live | Great Jazz Drummer DVD Concert Videos Watch Free

The 53rd annual Grammy Awards 2011

2011-02-18T15:50:00.000+07:00

The 53rd Annual Grammy Awards on February 13, 2011 at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.
Eminem topped the nominations with ten, including Record of The Year, Song of the Year and Album of The Year followed by Bruno Mars who received seven nominations; Jay-Z, Lady Antebellum, and Lady Gaga each earned six nominations; Jeff Beck, B.o.B, David Frost, Philip Lawrence, John Legend and The Roots received five each; Alex Da Kid, The Black Keys, Drake, Cee Lo Green, Ari Levine, Katy Perry, Rihanna, Dirk Sobotka, and Zac Brown each earned four nods; Arcade Fire, Chris Brown, Muse, Miranda Lambert, John Mayer, Beyoncé and Alicia Keys each earned three nods; and Robert Plant, Pink, Justin Bieber, Mumford & Sons, Monica, La Roux, Goldfrapp, Janelle Monáe, Sade, Michael Bublé, Fantasia, Hayley Williams and The White Stripes all received two nominations.

The Winner are :
Record of the Year

Lady Antebellum - Need You Now

B.o.B feat. Bruno Mars - Nothin' on You
Eminem feat. Rihanna - Love the Way You Lie
Cee Lo Green - Forget You
Jay-Z feat. Alicia Keys - Empire State of Mind

Song of the Year

Lady Antebellum - Need You Now

Ray LaMontagne And The Pariah Dogs - Beg Steal or Borrow
Cee Lo Green - Forget You
Miranda Lambert - The House That Built Me
Eminem Featuring Rihanna - Love The Way You Lie

Best New Artist

Esperanza Spalding

Justin Bieber
Drake
Florence & Machine
Mumford & Sons

Album of the Year

The Suburbs - Arcade Fire

Recovery - Eminem
Need You Now - Lady Antebellum
The Fame Monster - Lady GaGa
Teenage Dream - Katy Perry

Read more all the Grammy Awards at Grammy.com
Source : Wikipedia

See Esperanza Spalding Live at Austin City Limits 2009
The 53rd annual Grammy Awards 2011

How To Tune Drums Like The Pros - Drum Tuning Guide

2011-02-10T16:30:00.000+07:00

by Jason
Easy Step-By-Step Drum Tuning
Tuning a drum set can be very, very easy if you know how to and understand the simple concepts in tuning drums. Drums come in all shapes, sizes and construction and really what is the point in spending $100s if not $1,000's of dollars on a drum set if you they don't sound good. This article will give you the insight on how to tune your drums quickly and easily.

STEP 1 - Buy All New Drum Heads
Depending on the condition of your drum heads, you will most likely have to replace the top and probably the bottom heads. There is a separate section on purchasing drums heads that will work best with the type of drum set you have. Different drum heads will produce a different sound and a selection of drum heads can be found here.

STEP 2 - Start with the Snare Drum
Remove both snare drum heads (assuming you are replacing both). Put the top snare drum head on first. I recommend "cracking" the head by pushing your fist into the middle of the head but not too hard. This will stretch the head out and make it harder to go out of tune with any potential temperature changes. Hand tighten each lug around the snare drum. Then with a drum tuner, tune one lug at a time by turning the key 2 full rotations. Next tune the lug on the opposite side (180 degrees away) of the drum doing the same. Repeat until you reach the original lug you 1st started with. I recommend for a tight sounding snare that you do this one more time either turning the lug 1 or 2 full rotations. Next, put on the bottom head and do the exact same. To get the final sound perfect you want to make sure the pitch of each lug is even. You do this by pushing your index finger into the drum head in the middle of the drum. Then go around each lug 1 inch from the rim and hit once with a stick. Listen to the tone and make sure all the lugs are the same.

STEP 3 - Tuning the Bass Drum
Again, remove both drum heads from the bass drum and place the new head onto the beater side. Lightly tighten all the sides so the head is on securely. Since you are going to want a low sound for this drum you want the lowest possible pitch. To do this, push your hand in the middle of the drum and look at your reflection in the drum head. Loosen each lug and you will notice your face getting distorted and the drum head wrinkles. Loosen and then tighten each lug to the point where your face is not distorted and the wrinkle does away. Do this all the way around the bass drum on each lug. When finished, go around the lugs one more time and do a quarter to a half turn on each. I do recommend some kind of dampening pad on the inside or outside of the head. Next you are going to want to put a pillow inside the drum which will absorb some of the sound and give it a deeper sound. So now onto the front head. Tuning the front is just like tuning the beater head side. Lightly tighten all the lugs to the point where there are no wrinkles. Then push your hand into the middle of the drum head, loosen each lug so you see wrinkles and then tighten to remove the wrinkles. That's the basics.

STEP - Tuning the Tom Toms
Tuning the toms can be a little tricky as they can be tuned to a particular pitch. The key is too not focus so much on getting your toms to a particular pitch but instead trying to find the true tone of the drum. You want the sound to be crisp and resonant. If the sound produces a thud sound the heads are too loose. If the toms lose their tone too quickly they might be too tight. You want both heads to be tuned to the same tone in order to get the most resonant sound. The same principles apply to tuning your toms as tuning your snare drum and bass drum. Replace both heads and then hand tighten each tension rod. Once that is complete go around one more time and make sure there are no wrinkles in the head. Once this is done, go around the tension rods once more time and tighten with a ½ turn. Do this on all the tension rods and listen to the sound it produces. Again if it's a thud sound they are too loose. If the sound dies off to quickly they are too tight. Once you find the perfect balance push your finger lightly into the middle of the drum and tap your stick right by each tension rod. The sound around the entire drum should be all the same. Make sure both the top and bottom heads are tuned to the same tone.
How To Tune Drums Like The Pros - Drum Tuning Guide

Tips How to Have the Best Drum Instructor

2011-01-22T08:17:00.000+07:00

by: Jack Tan
How can you make sure that you are employing a certified drum instructor? How do you know you are becoming a professional?? Here are some tips on what to look out for when you employ a drum teacher.
The truth is, there are professed drum instructors and amateur. To find out if your teacher is a professed, a personal interview would be considered. A perfect drum teacher would be one who has a diploma in Music Education with an emphasis on Percussions.

But it is still good to be cynical. Experience matters so make sure you find a teacher who is expert in instructing a student. For instance, there are teachers who have no experience teaching young children or a particular genre.

In the drum world, there are those teachers who are termed as “cowboys”. These types of drum teachers are commonly unqualified to be drum teachers. Always keep in mind that playing and teaching are two very various things.

Amateur drum teachers are also inert in some basic drum knowledge. A very good way of spotting the cowboys from the pros would be to observe some of their drumming techniques. Bad teachers also do not know how to teach proper coordination, wrist movement, thumb and finger grips and pedal work.

A basic knowledge of the drums is essential to drummers. So a certified drum teacher must be able to answer casual questions such as "What drum set is right for my 12 year old daughter?”. Aside from basic beats, a very good drum instructor does not only focus on one musical genre but can teach a multitude of other music modes such as jazz, funk, reggae, odd time (unusual time signatures), Latin, fusion, marching and others.

Other drum teachers like to name drop, such as the drummer of a well-known band. While this may be true as drum teachers can tour with bands, it would still be nice to find out as much the drum instructor in question. Nonsense drum teachers are not only a rot of your time and money.

Tips How to Have the Best Drum Instructor

GP55 Child Size Junior Drum Set with Seat, Sticks & Cymbals - Wine Red | Youth Drum Set

2011-01-01T08:43:00.003+07:00

From GP

Your aspiring little drummer will be keeping the beat in no time with this complete kids size drum set! The GP-55 Junior drum set has fully tunable top and bottom heads, metal hardware and real wood shells accented by black finished rims. Its durable quality will hold up to your child's playing! Drum sizes: 16" bass drum, 10"' snare drum, 8" & 10" fixed angle small toms and 12" floor tom. Includes: snare drum stand, hi-hat stand and drum stool.
Youth Drum Set

Product Details : GP55 Child Size Junior Drum Set with Seat, Sticks & Cymbals - Wine Red

More : Kids Drum Sets | Youth Drum Set

GLEE The Best 35 CHRISTMAS TIME SONGS | Free Music Online

2010-12-24T09:27:00.000+07:00

GLEE The Best 35 CHRISTMAS TIME SONGS | Free Music Online
Merry christmas and happy holidays
Some of the best Christmas time songs with the best Christmas picture
Christmas Greetings Wishing you a prosperous New Year! Christmas Greetings
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

GLEE The Best 35 CHRISTMAS TIME SONGS | Free Music Online

Christmas Greetings Wishing you a prosperous New Year! Christmas Greetings
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

GLEE The Best 35 CHRISTMAS TIME SONGS | Free Music Online

Yamaha DTXplorer 5-piece Electronic Drum Kit | Famous Drum Kits

2010-12-21T09:22:00.001+07:00

From Yamaha

The Yamaha DTXplorer Electronic Drum Set is the latest from the legendary Yamaha electronic drum family. For over a decade, Yamaha DTX electronic drums have set new standards. From the DTXpress to the DTXtremeIIS, Yamaha has continually raised the bar. The Yamaha DTXplorer is the lowest priced full-featured 5-piece configured set on the market. This drum set includes high-impact rubber pads with natural feel and rebound, mounted on a sturdy folding ribbed rack.
Famous Drum Kits

Product Details : Yamaha DTXplorer 5-piece Electronic Drum Kit
More : High Quality Drum Kits | Cheap Drum Sets
Yamaha DTXplorer 5-piece Electronic Drum Kit | Famous Drum Kits

Free Heavy Metal Drum Lesson & Blast Beats Drum Lesson Video

2010-12-20T08:12:00.000+07:00

Free Heavy Metal Drum Lesson & Blast Beats Drum Lesson Video
In this lesson, Sean Lang of the band First Reign joins Jared & Dave to teach some heavy metal drumming and blast beats.
The sheet music for this lesson can be downloaded here:
http://www.freedrumlessons.com/drum-forums/index.php?showtopic=8364

Free Heavy Metal Drum Lesson & Blast Beats Drum Lesson Video

Free Heavy Metal Drum Lesson & Blast Beats Drum Lesson Video

Drum Kit Buying Tips

2010-12-10T08:45:00.000+07:00

by Victor Epand
Drum is the most rocking musical instrument among all. It is something that has the capability to make the listeners tap their feet to every beat of the music. Drums are quite popular with the youngsters and are considered to be the trendiest musical instrument. But the drums are quite costly as compared to other musical instruments. Thus it is necessary to have a clear knowledge about the whole drum kit and the factors relating to it, not only before learning but also before buying. Here are a few drum kit buying tips that can be helpful to the drum buyers.

Before talking about the drum kit buying tips, it is necessary to know what constitutes a drum kit. A drum kit usually includes:

- Snare Drum
- Bass Drum
- Drum Head
- Kick Pedal
- Cymbals
- Toms
- Sticks
- Accessories

Here we go with the tips now:

Drum kit buying tips - I
First task is to set up the budget: Then go for choosing one according to the price set. The advantage of buying a drum kit is that you can avail it in parts. That is you can add components to your kit one by one depending on the availability of money. But of course you should know what is necessary and can't go without it. In this case, one thing should be remembered that beginner's kits are different from professional kits. And thus the price is also different. But it is better not to keep the budget too low, as you may not find the right kit then.

Drum kit buying tips - II
Choice between a brand new and a used one: Your next task is to decide whether you would prefer a new drum kit or a second hand. It basically depends on the amount you can spend. While buying a used drum kit it is better if you buy the drum kits from someone who cares for the kits and treats them well or a reliable dealer.

Drum kit buying tips - III
Next comes the sound: Decide what kind of sound you want and then check it out because drums are all about sound. Basically there are two types of drum kits - Acoustic drum kits and Electric drum kits. Acoustic drum kits generally produce best sound but are not compact, whereas Electric drum kits are quite smaller and sound light as compared to Acoustic. But they have adjustable volume and headphone sockets. And moreover, you can create your own drum kit by transferring different sounds to different drums. However, it is on your decision that should be taken after proper research.

Drum kit buying tips - IV
Next is to check out each component of the kit: Before settling down to buy each and every kit must be checked and examined properly to ensure that you are getting the right one. Particularly the beginners have to be more cautious. Checking the kit includes checking for any defects mainly in the parts like Cymbals, Hardware, and Drum Shells.
Drum Kit Buying Tips

Drum Festival 2003 - Louis Santiago Jr. & The Drumbassadors perform on their drums | Top Performing Drum Video

2010-11-23T07:31:00.000+07:00

Drum Festival 2003 - Louis Santiago Jr. & The Drumbassadors perform on their drums | Top Performing Drum Video
33.06 minutes
Louis Santiago Jr. & The Drumbassadors (formed out of the best european drummers Wim de Vries and Rene Creemers) at the Modern Drummer Festival 2003 (Sunday)

Drum Festival 2003 - Louis Santiago Jr. & The Drumbassadors perform on their drums | Top Performing Drum Video

New Pink Junior Children's 5-Piece Drum Set with Cymbals Stands Stool Sticks Hardware Complete | Kids Drum Sets For Sale

2010-11-08T07:43:00.000+07:00

From Gammon Percussion

Brand New Pink 5-Piece Junior Drum Set - Absolutely everything you need to start playing! # Look at these AMAZING features: 16"x10" 12 Lug Bass Drum # 5 1/2" x 12 Wood Snare drum # 10"x7 and 8"x6 Hang Toms # 13"x9" Floor tom # 2-8" Hi-Hat Cymbals # 1-10" Crash/Ride Cymbal # Snare Stand # Hi-Hat Stand # Bass drum pedal # Drummer's Throne/Stool # Pair drum sticks # Drummers Key # HIGH GLOSS Finish...Assembly is required. Top seller ships fast! Kids Drum Sets For Sale

Product Details : New Pink Junior Children's 5-Piece Drum Set with Cymbals Stands Stool Sticks Hardware Complete

More : Kids Drum Sets | Youth Drum Set

Creating and Using Hip Hop Loops and Samples | Beat Maker Essentials

2010-11-07T08:14:00.003+07:00

by Dwight Noah
When it comes to music production, music beat is very important. Hip hop loops and samples are popular in creating hip hop beats. Many producers thought that if they will use loops and samples, they are not considered unique. This is because hip hop sampling is a method used to make a combined pattern of music commonly known as loops through mixing derivative pieces of different songs.

Using hip hop loops and samples is actually a good way of improving music production. This is also a way of testing the producer's creativity. In fact, a lot of famous and top producers are using hip hop loops to have a good production of their music. These are not only helpful for musicians, but loops are also used in audio production of films, multimedia, and videos.

Well, there are so many things you should consider in order to create loops. Some of the main ones are:

1. Sound: Quality of sound is very essential. Always begin with good and clean sounds. You may edit and filter them later based on your desire.

2. Program of drumming: Knowing an excellent program of drumming is also very essential. This will greatly contribute in the production of rhythm that is stable and of good quality, so that it will be truly enjoyed by the audience.

3. Controlling the bottom: A beat maker should become skilled in controlling the bottom. Learning how to make good basslines is the reason for an excellent hip hop.

4. Creativity: Having a touch of inventiveness will make a difference. Audience will always seek out new things. Being creative with beats and loops will attract a lot of listeners.

Why are loops important?

* They give essential features of environment In order to attain the desired groove, music producers have the rhythm on drums programmed. In addition to that, contexts, atmosphere, and interests can be added by the MC with no possibility of recreating others' record.

* They supply something funky for the MC to rap over There are some instances that the band can't achieve the desired beat or sound. The use of Loops is a lot of help for this situation. Moreover, listeners don't wan to experience a situation wherein vocals are drowned out.

* They can create tracks that are enjoyable As mentioned, using loops can test the creativity of the producer. He can put in conversation or stories that can uplift the audience's spirit and will truly make them enjoy.

Hip hop loops and samples are your key to make your sounds and beats stronger. There is nothing to be worried of if you prefer using loops or samples. Besides, it would be great if a lot of music producers will use them to have entertaining beats that will surely rock the audience. Hip hop is not merely about beats but they are being used in the creation of video games and commercials as well.

These are just some tips that would be useful especially for music producers that are just starting their journey on this field. For some producers who are having hard times thinking how they can make their big hit, these tips and information will open your mind on new ideas that will certainly trigger your creativity to soar up high.
Creating and Using Hip Hop Loops and Samples | Beat Maker Essentials

Kick Drum Tips

2010-10-22T08:11:00.001+07:00

by Anthony Caldwell
Mic Choice: To get a solid kick sound, you want to use a large diaphragm mic. An example of a good kick drum mic are the AKG D112, the Sennheiser MD 421 and an Electro-Voice RE20. There are many mic's made for recording the kick drum and each mic will have its own feel and will help different frequencies over others. For example, if you want that "tick" sound of the kick drum petal beater striking the head, you would chose a mic that favors the lower mid range and the upper frequencies as well.

Mic Position: For a Tight Drum: (There are many way to mic a kick drum) This does not use 2 heads. Blot out the outer head and pace the mic inside the kick drum and slant it at the batter head. The gap from the batter head depends on the sound you are going for. The closer you are to the batter head, the more impact and less resonance sound you get form that mic. Inserting a blanket or a foam pad inside the base of the kick drum will help weaken unwanted reflections. A good starting point for mic placement is about 5 inches inside the kick drum, slightly tilted towards the floor tom.

For a Large & Live Kick Drum: To get large and live kick drum sounds, you should use 2 kick drum heads.The sound will sound more full with rich overtones. you may want to put a strip of cloth across both heads. This helps undermine overtones without destroying the boominess of the kick drum. Try placing your mic about 2 feet in front of the kick drum and have it point to the center of the head. You'll need to turn the pad setting on for the mic, or you may overload your signal. Various drummers have a the front head with a hole that they cut out or bought. If this is the case, you can posture the mic somewhat inside the hole or aimed into the hole. Note, that having a hole in the outer head can cause an annoying ring to it. To fix this aggravating issue, you can lay a foam pad or blanket against a section of the front head to remove the annoying ring without effecting the overall sound.

Signal Processing Tips: You can compress the kick drum during the recording phase. But you do not have to. You can do all this after its recorded into your program of elect. When I process the signal when recording, I will primarily use a compressor, EQ, and a noise gate. I'll compress with a threshold set to around -10dB below the highest peak with a moderate to fast attack and moderate release with a ratio set to 2:1. Then I'll boost at 100Hz to taste and then I'll run it through a noise gate, with the gate set up to close after a few milliseconds after the kick sound. This will make the kick drum very defined and very thrilling.
Kick Drum Tips

Remo Pretuned Diane Doumbek, Ceramic | Percussion Instruments For Sale

2010-10-17T08:41:00.003+07:00

Remo Pretuned Diane Doumbek, Ceramic | Percussion Instruments For Sale
From Remo

The Doumbek plays a central role in both popular and classical Middle-Eastern music, and is often heard in ensembles with the Riq and Tar. 15"H x 8" diameter. Traditional doumbek shells are made from metal, clay, or fired ceramic. Remo's Pretuned doumbek uses an Acousticon drum shell material which is lightweight, durable and is covered in an attractive cloth finish. Overall, this doumbek is a super light weight drum that produces a professional quality sound with the Remo Renaissance Pre-tuned weather resistant drumhead. Percussion Instruments For Sale.

Product Details : Remo Pretuned Diane Doumbek, Ceramic

More : World Percussion Instruments

Joe Morello Drum Method 2 - Around the Kit | Watch Free Drum Techniques, Drum Lessons VDO Online

2010-10-15T16:18:00.000+07:00

Joe Morello Drum Method 2 - Around the Kit | Watch Free Drum Techniques, Drum Lessons VDO Online
73.07 minutes
Part 2 of Joe Morello's classic drum method series explores single vs. double bass drum techniques, special bass drum exercises, heel-toe techniques, hi-hat "ride style" & "fanning", making hi-hat & cymbals "breathe" & blend, swinging and keeping time, dynamics, punctuating & accents, thinking musically, and soloing. This wealth of practical teaching is accompanied, as ever, by Joe Morello's legendary wit and wisdom!

Joe Morello Drum Method 2 - Around the Kit | Watch Free Drum Techniques, Lessons Online

See Joe Morello Drum Method 1 - The Natural Approach to Drum Technique
Joe Morello Drum Method 2 - Around the Kit | Watch Free Drum Techniques, Drum Lessons VDO Online

Unique Doumbek Drums | Meinl Copper Doumbek, Hand Engraved

2010-10-14T16:17:00.000+07:00

Unique Doumbek Drums | Meinl Copper Doumbek, Hand Engraved
by Shirley Adams
Have you ever heard of doumbek drums? These are unique sets of musical instruments popularly used by those in ceremonies or rituals by some famous or indigenous tribes, such as the African tribes. There are a lot of styles for the said drums and you can even purchased one these days. Why is it called unique set of drums? Well, talking about musical instruments, such as drums, one thing that we could always associate is musical performances or singing and dancing. But, with this specific set of drums, we can also associate various traditions and cultures.

One of the famous usages of these drums when it comes to music genre is on reggae. Reggae is a kind of music genre that is once popularized in Jamaica and little by little being known into the world. Some individuals are being hook with this kind of genre for it is very suiting to the ear, relaxing to the feeling and if you happen to witness reggae music competition, you might feel that you are being draw closer to the music, as if you are being drawn to move and sway. And when it comes to reggae, doumbek drum is one very important instrument.

What do you think these doumbek drums are made of? If modern musical instruments are made mostly of wood and strings, these unique set of drums are made out of animal's skin and together with the animals skin, the body is made out of wood or ceramics. Indigenous tribes, such as the group of Africans can just make it out of their hands due to the simplicity of the materials used.

If you want to own doumbek instruments, you can actually have these instruments whenever you want but be sure that you are having from a reputable dealer. There might be lots of dealers out there but not all of them are selling quality instruments which can last for a lifetime. These instruments are not just ordinary, they somehow reflect the rich traditions of those different tribes at the same time, reflect how talented and creative they are. Now, have you already learned why is it referred to as unique instruments?
View Meinl Copper Doumbek, Hand Engraved : From Meinl

Zoom Drum Machine - The Only Comprehensive Review

2010-10-10T09:26:00.000+07:00

by Cool Bob
If you have used any zoom gear before you will know that they're the masters of packing in loads of great sounds for not very much money...and the RT223 zoom drum machine I have just got is not exception.

A few of my Favorite things...
1. It's really small and light so if you're a subway musician you will not break your back bone trying to carrying the thing.

2. There is a super massive range of kits for any style of music you could ever want to make. I'm talking 70 kits...acid jazz anyone?

3. I'm not sure if I will ever use it but the most fun thing about my new zoom drum machine is the human beat box. It gives you five different sounds and even let you record your own voice...amazing!

So what is it like to use?

You get 13 pads on which to play yours beats and you can also do it manually by entering your measures in with the manual edit feature.

But believe me you don't have to be some kind of crazy good drummer to make something really cool. You could just play one drum at a time and even slow your song right down to make some crazy fills.

Another thing that I found useful was to be able to EQ my beats on the fly because all different venues sound slightly different. Sometimes the pitch and high end needs tweaking a little and you can do all that right there on the little zoom drum machine.

Calling all lazy dudes!

If you can't be bothered to make your own beats there are also a lot of preset patterns that you can just cut together and have a tune up and running in about half an hour.

I use this for demos and I have even got to the stage where can jam with it live.

The rest of the band think I have spent hours working on the tunes.

Pretty sneak!

It's not all good though...

Although a drum machine is great for live work because they never crash, you would be mad to even think about using it for home recording. There are so many software programs out there that make the beat making process a lot easier and allow you to edit even after you have finished the tune.

This is impossible with a drum machine because you record the flat audio onto you track and it's a major hassle to change.
Zoom Drum Machine - The Only Comprehensive Review

Sonor Force 507 Combo 5 Piece Drum Set in Black | Cheap Drum Sets For Sale

2010-09-29T08:02:00.000+07:00

Sonor Force 507 Combo 5 Piece Drum Set in Black | Cheap Drum Sets For Sale
From Sonor

You may have your own definition but Combo Kit can mean "Jazz Gig", "Practice Kit" or even "fit me in your economy car and go to the gig" kit! These flexible, portable, great-sounding sets are right at home in so many situations.The 5 piece kit includes an 18" bass drum, 10" and 12" toms, a 14" floor tom, a 14" X 51/2" snare and the Sonor 100 series hardware set. So load up that little car and get to the gig! Cheap Drum Sets For Sale.

Product Details : Sonor Force 507 Combo 5 Piece Drum Set in Black

More : High Quality Drum Kits | Cheap Drum Sets | Sonor Drum Set

Drum Method 1 - The Natural Approach to Drum Technique | Free Drum Lesson Online

2010-09-22T09:10:00.000+07:00

Joe Morello - Drum Method 1 - The Natural Approach to Drum Technique | Free Drum Lesson Online
59:50 minutes
Joe Morello is one of the most important drummers in jazz-and here's your chance to learn directly from him! Joe demonstrates roll techniques, matched grip and traditional stick positions, sounds on the drumhead, cross sticking, tuning, and much more, all using natural body movement. Plus great vintage footage of Joe in action with the Dave Brubeck Quintet!

Joe Morello - Drum Method 1 - The Natural Approach to Drum Technique | Free Drum Lesson Online

Joe Morello - Drum Method 1 - The Natural Approach to Drum Technique | Free Drum Lesson Online

DeRosa by Bridgecraft Child Drum Set DRM 312 BLACK - For 3 to 5 years | Kids Drum Sets For Sale

2010-09-15T08:32:00.000+07:00

DeRosa by Bridgecraft Child Drum Set DRM 312 BLACK - For 3 to 5 years | Kids Drum Sets For Sale
From Bridgecraft

This sturdy BLACK Bridgecraft kids drum is sized just right for small children 2 to 5 year olds. And it's durable quality will hold up under your child's playing! It features real birch wood multi-ply shells, fully tunable top and bottom heads and black plated real metal hardware! The 12" bass drum (with 12 tuning rods and lugs) has attractive color-matched inlaid rims for a pro-like "look". Includes: tilting cymbal stand and drum stool (both adjustable height), spring-loaded bass drum pedal, brass cymbal, drum sticks and tuning key! This miniature drum set makes a wonderful music gift for kids! Replacement parts are also available. Some assembly is needed for this drum set. Additional colors available. One year warranty against any manufacturing defects. Warning: potential choking hazard. Not recommended for kids under 3 yrs. Contains small parts. Kids Drum Sets For Sale.

Product Details : DeRosa by Bridgecraft Child Drum Set DRM 312 BLACK - For 3 to 5 years

More : Child Drum Set

Make Drum Beats Come Alive Easily | Good Drum Tip

2010-09-08T08:17:00.000+07:00

by Jack Leavitt
In order to develop a great sound and provide others with great music you have to make drum beats before anything else. This will define the pace, the tone and the emotion behind any song out there today. It all starts with understanding the drum kit itself and getting a hold of the basic knowledge. It doesn't matter if you're using an online drum maker to make drum beats or a live drum kit.

Your core drums are the; bass drum, hi-hat, and snare. When you look at all the sounds out there 90% of them will be made with either of these options. The best thing you can do is play around with them and figure out what kind of sounds they make. Don't be afraid to figure out what the sounds make you feel, and how they punctuate a piece of music.

Today I want to tell you about how you can make drum beats with an online system. If you use a live kit you have to have it in front of you and learn about the rhythm. When you make drum beats online it's easy to get it right, even if you're just a beginner. So the information below is all about the basics of the online system.

Let's assume you already programmed your basic drum loop. This can be done by downloading one, taking advantage of samples, or grabbing some raw live audio from the computer or drum machine. One thing to understand is that some of these are easier than others. In the beginning though I recommend using a sample or a download.

One of your main goals is to inject style into your drum track and bring forth that texture and originality. When you have your first loop you can begin chopping and editing it. Here you will be looking for the sections you want to use, so be sure to have some blank tracks ready. It will give you the room you need to drag and drop great beats.

Then you will want to separate the percussion sounds. Keep in mind they don't have to be single hi-hat hits, because any percussion sound is great. I can tell you though that small samples are extremely beneficial when you make a new sound. Once you have your sound it will be time to create a loop. Make sure it's around 4 to 8 bars in length. After this step has been completed it's time to make drum beats all by yourself!

Okay, so now you have this loop and it's time to lay it over the original sounds. Congratulations, you have just learned the basics of making drum beats! Over time you will be able to create a loop from scratch by using software. The end result is you will own original drum beats and can release them to the world!

During this process it's possible that you need to weed out any errors in the final sequence when you make drum beats. The best suggestion I can give you here is doing a compression or try to cut some low frequencies. This can be done by using a high pass filter.
Make Drum Beats Come Alive Easily | Good Drum Tip

Pearl Forum FZH725/C21 Drum Kit, Smokey Chrome | Discount Drum Sets

2010-09-04T14:10:00.000+07:00

Pearl Forum FZH725/C21 Drum Kit, Smokey Chrome | Discount Drum Sets
From Pearl

Ready-Set-Go! Complete Package. The Forum Drumset package includes absolutely everything you will need to get started on your path drumming satisfaction, including a set of high-quality cymbals, a pair of 5A sticks and a sturdy drum throne. Every Pearl drum is made using Pearl's Superior Shell Technology for extreme strength, optimal resonance and superior tone. Forum is no exception, and it is Pearl's superior quality at every level that sets a Pearl drum apart from any other in the industry. Pearl believes so strongly in its product that it offers a Limited Lifetime Warranty on every wood drum it makes. It is this commitment to quality that makes Pearl a leader in today's percussion world.

Product Details : Pearl Forum FZH725/C21 Drum Kit, Smokey Chrome

More : Pearl Drum Sets
Pearl Forum FZH725/C21 Drum Kit, Smokey Chrome | Discount Drum Sets

DW Drums Eco-X Kit with 22-inch Kick Drum, Natural Bamboo Finish | Discount Drum Kits

2010-09-03T16:30:00.002+07:00

DW Drums Eco-X Kit with 22-inch Kick Drum, Natural Bamboo Finish (Cymbals Not Included) | Discount Drum Kits
From DW (Drum Workshop, Inc)
DW provides drummers with yet another sonic option, while at the same time utilizing renewable resources, that's ECO-X. They are big, full sounding drums with a huge fundamental, and all of the warmth, resonance, and attack that Collector's Series drums are known for. This DW Eco-X 5-piece drum shell pack not only satisfies drummer's needs with its huge sound, and full frequency range, but it also satisfies our need to be environmentally conscious. The unique hybrid bamboo/birch shells provide increased high-end attack, while DW's X Shell technology offers unprecedented low-end response. Plus, DW drummer-friendly features such as True Pitch Tuning, STM (Suspension Tom Mounts), Proportional Counter Hoops and DW Heads by Remo USA all come standard. It's a giant leap forward in shell technology and everyone wins! At DW, making drum shells sound better is what they do best. The X Shell technology all started with DW's foray into VLT, or Vertical Low Timbre Technology.

Product Details : DW Drums Eco-X Kit with 22-inch Kick Drum, Natural Bamboo Finish

More : dw Drum Sets

Drum Solo with Sam Heard - Drum Performing Clip Video

2010-08-18T13:32:00.000+07:00

Drum Solo with Sam Heard - Drum Performing Clip Video
Watch Sam Heard perform a drum solo! Learn how you can perform drum solos using these free drum lessons in this first part of the video.
FreeDrumLessons.com is revolutionizing the way thousands of people learn the drums. With over 120 FREE online video lessons for drummers of all skill levels. Check out http://www.freedrumlessons.com

Drum Solo with Sam Heard - Drum Performing Clip Video

Drum Solo with Sam Heard - Drum Performing Clip Video

Drum Loops Download, What To Do With It

2010-07-27T09:24:00.000+07:00

by: James Jackson
If you're online most of the time and you love music, you probably know some drum loops download archives.

Drum loops download site helps musicians use one of the most important elements of making great beats.
One option is to create your own drum loops, but you can just download them and create music quickly. There are various ways to utilize your drum loops download.

Many musicians start by downloading drum loops, and it is nothing to be ashamed of. Use drum loops download sites to create your original music, that's what really matters. Doing this is a lot easier so you can really put your creativity into practice.

Browse drum loops download sites to get a feel of what's offered. Because of the many alternatives, you can be picky.

There are so many sites where drum loops download files are easily accessible, and the membership fees are not too high. Look into the features, not always the price! Various drum loops download online websites allow you to download only a limited number of tracks.

You can find drum loops download files that are royalty free but there are some that require a small fee. This is because some are done with a special beat making software using stretching algorithms.

The drum loops download beats are not always perfect, and so the premium ones will probably cost you a little something to download.

Tempos are important for invoking particular emotions from the audience. This means you need to be careful to choose the drum loop to download that really suits you and your style of music.

Spend more time using you creativity to develop your song by simply downloading the basic beat that you're going to use.

Drum Loops Download, What To Do With It

The Drum Loops Download Beats

2010-07-14T08:35:00.001+07:00

by: James Jackson
If you have been trawling online for tips on how to make great beats at home, on your own computer you have probably come across drum loops download files.

Drum loops download lets arrangers put in the fundamental drum loop that creates a foundation for the whole beat.

There's an option to create your own drum loops, but you can always download them from a drum loops download site. There are many many ways to creatively use your drum loops download.

Many musicians start by downloading drum loops, and there's absolutely nothing wrong in doing this. When you are starting out learning how to create your own beats, it’s often easier and takes some of the pressure off just to use a drum beat that sounds the way you want it too. Doing this is easier.

Go to various drum loops download websites to see which ones you like best. Because of the many alternatives, you can be picky.

There are so many sites offering drum loops download files, and there are lots of different options when it comes to your budget. Choose carefully and look at the features before joining! Some drum loops download websites share only the very best tracks.

Drum loops are produced by different artists and some are offered for free online, others you have to pay a small royalty. This is because they are produced in different ways.

The drum loops download beats that are free usually have glitches you have to fix yourself.

Your beat's tempo will invoke a certain feeling from a listener. This means your own individuality must be evident in the beat you are creating.

Drum beats that are downloaded can be a great tool to creating an excellent base from which you can really get creative.

The Drum Loops Download Beats

Advantage of Private Drum lesson

2010-06-29T08:33:00.003+07:00

by: Jack Tan
The drum being one of the one of the earliest famed percussion musical tools in the world, has a long and rich history. The drum was used as a communicating tool between villages and use to make out commands to troops in combat. The also have therapeutic effect to people who wish to beat off some stress and tension.

Going to go to a music institution where percussions is learned or you can find a master drum teacher and take private drum lessons from him are of ways of learning how to play the drums.

One of the rewards of one on one drum tuition is comfort. Private tutors ordinarily have much time than teachers who teach in music school meaning that they can be persuaded or are accessible to learn at your residence alternatively. And since they do not have to time off during a certain time, schedules of the lesson can be changed to accommodate the student and masters.

Since you are the master's sole concern during lessons, this would imply that you can ask many questions as possible. You can also ask to learn unique melodious manners which interest you more, like for instance, jazz or reggae rather of metal or pop.

Private drum lessons are ideal for students who would like to amend fast or have aspirations to play in rock bands or become professional performing artists. They are also very perfect for students who would like to learn for hobby as they have the proper direction and will rapidly appreciate the drums and attain their goals.

Advantage of Private Drum lesson

7 Buying Beginner Drum Set Tips

2010-06-22T09:18:00.001+07:00

by: Jason Miles
Tip 1: Does the drum set come with cymbals? Believe it or not but cymbals play a big role in the cost of the drum set.

Tip 2: Are the cymbals "cast" or "sheet" cymbals? Please don't let me hear another sheet metal cymbal or my ears will pop. I'm not kidding these things sound terrible and with the right research you can buy cast cymbals even on a budget. I guarantee you 100% that you've never seen a cymbal flip inside out when you were at a concert or watching a music video, so save yourself the embarrassment and get the real deal on the same budget.

Tip 3: If possible stick with a brand that has been out for awhile as they tend to be a lot better. Their hi-hat and snare hardware actually stay in place and don't fall over while playing.

Tip 4: Check out some cymbal kits that include 3-4 cymbals. They come with your standard cymbals hi-hat, crash, ride, but costs less than it would if you bought them all separately. Also make sure the kit you decide on has the right number of stands as your cymbal kit does or you'll be paying for something your unable to use.

Tip 5: What kind of tom mounting system does it use? Now you'd think this was obvious to some of the more experienced drummers but somehow it still seems to elude them today. We all know drum shells around round but why would we put a hole in the center of it just to mount them? To save a buck and prevent them drum from sounding any good that's why. It really doesn't require any extra money to get what you paid for but its keeping from getting ripped off as your new to the drum industry world.

Tip 6: A no brainer here but let me say it anyways. Does it come with a warranty? This will show you how reliable the manufacture thinks of their own set! Yes quiet brilliant of you to think that way.

Tip 7: Check to see what kind of stands come with the drum set if any at all! I highly recommend heavy duty stands as they are double jointed at the bottom and won't flex when you hit a cymbal and fall over. Silly to think they would make a stand that isn't really suppose to hold the cymbal! I hope you don't fall victim to this as its becoming quiet popular these days.

Conclusion: Not all beginner drum sets are made cheaply. Only some companies cut corners should you should keep your eye out on what you buy. Also its very possible to get a used set for a good price, so check your local paper and do a little research if your on a tight budget. You never know you may find a good deal on a classic set if they don't know what they have.

If your just beginning and your not really sure what to buy yet consider paying just a little bit more for an entry level drum set. When you get into entry level drum sets you can be more picky on what it comes with. For instance what type of wood and how many plies? Does it come with a wood snare? There are many factors in the drum set world and most of the companies compete for the entry to novice level set. I'd truly start there first if you can afford it.

7 Buying Beginner Drum Set Tips

The Police Reunion Live From Buenos Aires - Certifiable - Top Reggae Rock Gig

2010-05-28T08:41:00.005+07:00

Certifiable: Live in Buenos Aires is a live album by The Police. It was recorded in December, 2007 and was released in November, 2008. The album was released in the US exclusively through Best Buy. In the rest of the world, the album and DVD was released via all retail outlets on November 10. The album has a number of releases including a four disc version containing two CDs and two DVDs. The two CDs contain the live album from River Plate Stadium in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The first DVD contains the 109-minute wide-screen concert presented in Dolby Surround and Stereo.

THE POLICE - Wrapped Around Your Finger - The Police Reunion Live

See The Police Reunion Live From Buenos Aires - Certifiable (Full concert)
See Sting Live - Brand New Day Live At Universal Amphitheatre

The Police Reunion Live From Buenos Aires - Certifiable - Top Reggae Rock Gig

A trick for playing slightly behind the beat

2010-05-27T08:22:00.000+07:00

Drum Tricks - A trick for playing slightly behind the beat: With your dominate hand on the hi-hat and other on the snare, play a flam on your backbeats (2 and 4) so that the snare falls slightly behind your hi-hat hand. It works! - Be sure to use a metronome to assist you with staying in time.

Check your form

2010-05-27T08:21:00.001+07:00

Check your form: Often times existing problems on drumset stem from the most unsuspecting origins. Are you hitting the drums straight up and down? Are you too far back on the stick? Are you too close to the bass drum? Do you lean in when you play drum fills?

Bass Drum Comping - Free Drum Lessons

2010-04-30T08:15:00.007+07:00

These bass drum comping exercises are designed to build independence within your bass drum foot. They work the same way the snare drum comping patterns do, but are focused around the bass drum. They are great for jazz drumming, but are sure to improve many other areas of your drumming at the same time.

Jazz Bass Drum Comping - Free Drum Lessons

Jazz Bass Drum Comping - Free Drum Lessons

Think twice before cleaning those cymbals

2010-04-22T08:03:00.000+07:00

Think twice before cleaning those cymbals! Many of the old pros swear by that crusty old dirt that's engraved in cymbals. They claim, more often than not, that it gives them a real warm sound that adds character and body to their overall sound.

Learn Bass Drum Independence

2010-03-21T07:16:00.004+07:00

Learn Bass Drum Independence
This video lesson includes six drum beats that are designed to build bass drum independence. They are musical patterns that can be used in a rock playing situation, but are here for the purpose of developing your bass drum foot. Work through them slowly at first, and eventually increase the speed as you gain more control.

Learn Bass Drum Independence

Learn Bass Drum Independence

Drum Tricks

2010-02-26T07:41:00.001+07:00

Drum Tricks
A trick for playing slightly behind the beat: With your dominate hand on the hi-hat and other on the snare, play a flam on your backbeats (2 and 4) so that the snare falls slightly behind your hi-hat hand. It works! - Be sure to use a metronome to assist you with staying in time.

Drum Tricks

Dave Weckl - A Natural Evolution - Drum techniques lessons video

2010-01-21T07:30:00.005+07:00

Dave Weckl - A Natural Evolution - Drum techniques lessons video
59.52 minutes
How to Develop Drum Technique
The DVD version of Dave Weckl's first Carl Fischer Video, concentrates on explaining his natural approach to the drums. In lucid language and with careful demonstrations, using drum pad and the drum set, Weckl explains his new concepts of stick grip, wrist technique, finger technique and the rebound approach for both hands and feet.

Dave Weckl - A Natural Evolution - Drum techniques lessons video

Live performances by All-Star Dave Weckl Band and a special appearance by Freddie Gruber enrich this educational product. Bonus features of the DVD include: Alternate camera angles, new live concert footage from the Drummer's Collective 25th Anniversary Concert in New York, an exclusive interview with Dave Weckl and information on his new Signature line of cymbals.

Dave Weckl - A Natural Evolution - Drum techniques lessons video

Setting Up And Tuning Your Drums Guide For The Youngest Drummers Out There Part Three

2010-01-10T07:20:00.004+07:00

By: Ronald Black

Tuning drums starts with a drum key. I actually have one on my keychain so I'll almost never be without one. Unless I lose my keys, but that will never happen, right? You need this little tool to turn the rods that tighten or loosen the drumhead on the drum. This is called tuning the drum, which you will learn to do shortly. The second use for a key is to tighten various things on the hardware or stands. If you go to tighten something that's too small to grab with your fingers, you'll probably need your trusty key. If you don't have one handy, just find me. I have one on my keychain. Hey, wait. Where are my keys?! - Anyway lets go on and check out the drumheads!

There are two heads on each drum, top and bottom. Drumheads differ in various ways, such as color, single ply or double ply, or sound characteristics, but the most important difference is weight or thickness. The bottom head on the toms is usually of a lighter type than the top because it's to add tone to the drum, not to be hit like the top or batter head. On snare drum, we find the greatest difference between top and bottom heads. The bottom snare head, usually called the snare side head, is very thin. Drumheads come in not only many varieties of type and color, but also several degrees of quality.

The best sounding and most durable heads are the most expensive, and, in order to keep the cost of the full kit down, the heads that you get with your drum set might not be the best quality, depending on the line of drums that you get. These heads are fine when you're starting out, but when they break, replace them with a quality name brand head, such as Remo or Evans. You should immediately hear the difference in sound. Once the drumheads are placed on the drum, they need to be tuned. I don't fully tune the drums until after the kit is completely set up. For the purposes of the article, however, I've explained the process of putting on the heads and tuning the drums in my previous article.

How many pieces in your kit? What does that mean, anyway? Here's a bonus tip about how drummers talk about their kits. You'll often hear them talk about a four piece kit, a five piece kit, or a seventeen piece kit. What they are referring to is the number of actual drums they have in their kit. They are not including the number of cymbals they have in their number count. This can be a good thing to know if you happen to be looking in the paper for a used kit. For example, if it says "five piece drum set," that means it has five drums. If it doesn't say how many cymbals the kit comes with, that will be a question for you to ask whoever is selling it. Tuning the Bass Drum and the Toms Place the drumhead on the drum shell first, and then place the rim over the head.

Setting Up And Tuning Your Drums Guide For The Youngest Drummers Out There Part One
Setting Up And Tuning Your Drums Guide For The Youngest Drummers Out There Part Two

Setting Up And Tuning Your Drums Guide For The Youngest Drummers Out There Part Two

2010-01-05T07:16:00.002+07:00

By: Ronald Black

Lets examine a drum, if you look closely at the rim, you'll notice that the rim has holes in it. The rods, long pieces of metal with threads on one end and another end that your drum key fits onto, fit through the hole and down the outside of the drum and into the threaded hole at the top of the lug. The lugs are the pieces attached to the outside of the shell of each drum. The drum key is used to tighten or loosen the rods on the drum to change the pitch. It's best to get a general pitch that'somewhere in the middle of the range of pitches that the particular drum you're working on is capable of. To do this, use your drum key to loosen all the rods on both the top and bottom heads until they are as loose as they can be.

This will give you a starting point from which to tune the drum.If your drums came with the heads not on them, put the heads on the drums and tighten the rods into the lugs just enough so that they are threaded into the lug, but not so tight that there's any pressure. Then pick any rod and begin to tighten it just enough so that you start to feel some resistance. Then, go to the rod across the drumhead from the one that you've just tightened, and tighten that one as close as you can to the same amount of pressure as the first one. Pick another rod and do the same thing that you did to the first two. Then go to the rod opposite of that one, and do the same. It's very important that you always go to the rod that's across from the one you're working on when tuning up your drums.

If you tightened up all the rods on one side of the drum first, before going to the opposite side, your head will end up sitting on the drum like a seesaw, with one side of the head tightened down and the other side up too far away from the lugs to be tuned properly. If you follow this procedure with all the rods on both the bottom and top heads of the drum, you're ready to begin tuning. Choose any rod and tighten it up just enough so that any wrinkles that you might see near the area of the drumhead that you're working on smooth out.

Once those wrinkles smooth out, repeat the procedure with the opposite rod. As you continue this procedure for all the rods on the drum, try to pay attention to how much you're tightening down on each lug. ideally, you want to apply as close to the same amount of pressure to each and every rod as you can. If you do this to all the rods on both the top and bottom of the drum, your drum will then have a pitch or note that you can work with. It takes a little bit of experimentation to get the perfect pitch for each drum. If you have three toms in your kit, you'll notice that they are all different sizes. if you tune each tom to its ideal note, they will all naturally fall in a descending order of pitch. In other words, they'll go from higher to lower pitch according to their sizes.

Setting Up And Tuning Your Drums Guide For The Youngest Drummers Out There Part One
Setting Up And Tuning Your Drums Guide For The Youngest Drummers Out There Part Three
Setting Up And Tuning Your Drums Guide For The Youngest Drummers Out There Part Two

Simon Phillips - Drum Techniques - Drum lessons video

2009-12-30T07:39:00.002+07:00

Simon Phillips - Drum Techniques - Drum lessons video
63.15 minutes
Musicians
Anthony Jackson - Bass
Ray Russell - Guitar
Simon Phillips - Drums, Keyboards

Simon Phillips - Drum Techniques - Drum lessons video

If this video is not showing up, You can also see this video here
Track list
1. Outback
2. Cosmos
3. Force Majeure
4. V8
5. Red Rocks

Simon Phillips - Drum Techniques - Drum lessons video

Setting Up And Tuning Your Drums Guide For The Youngest Drummers Out There Part One

2009-12-25T07:49:00.003+07:00

By: Ronald Black

Once you find the spot in your house or garage where you're going to set up your kit, take some time to locate or go out and buy a rug to put down on that spot where your kit is going to be. The best kind of rug to use will have rubber on the bottom and rug on the top. Next time you walk into a restaurant, check out the rug that you're supposed to wipe your feet on when you walk in. You do wipe your feet, don't you? Of course you do. Not the welcome mat that's outside, but the rug that's just inside. That's the kind of rug I'm talking about, Unless you walk into the only restaurant in the world that doesn't have the kind of rug I'm talking about and you think I'm crazy.

What's he talking about now? You can find these rugs at Home Depot or a similar store. They shouldn't be too expensive. Get the size that looks as if it will be big enough to set up your drums, obviously. You use a rug for two reasons. The first reason is because if you set up drums on a wood floor with no rug under them, they will slide all over the place when you play them, driving you crazy. If you ever take your drums out of the house to set them up somewhere else, always and I mean always take your rug with you. Treat it as the most important part of your kit. I guarantee you, the first time you don't bring your rug will end up being the one time that you definitely need it. Bring it every single time, or else you'll be frantically searching around for a nearby restaurant from which you can "borrow" one.

There might already be a rug or carpeting on the floor where you're going to set up your kit, which might make you wonder whether you still need a special drum rug. You do, and here's why. Drumming can be messy. Oil might drip from your pedal onto the rug; those little wood chips that I talked about before might be flying around and landing on the rug; and blood, sweat, and tears might even fly if you're really rocking out. Or you just might spill your drink. Your mom or significant other will not be happy when he or she sees what rocking out has done to their carpet or rug. Your days of rocking might come to a sudden halt, and your days of vacuuming the rug will begin. Be a considerate drummer and use your own rug.

Before you start to set up your kit, locate the drum key among the pile of shiny metal stuff. You'll need this small tool for a couple of things. You never want to be without one of these around, and you probably shouldn't have just one. if you lose the one that you have, you'll absolutely have to go out to the music store and get another one, so I would suggest that the next time you're near the music store, you go in and get an extra one or two, whether you need one or not.

Setting Up And Tuning Your Drums Guide For The Youngest Drummers Out There Part Three
Setting Up And Tuning Your Drums Guide For The Youngest Drummers Out There Part Two
Setting Up And Tuning Your Drums Guide For The Youngest Drummers Out There Part One

"Don't forget" list

2009-11-29T16:27:00.000+07:00

Have a "Don't forget" list for packing up your drums before you head out the door. This works!! Type it out on your PC (O.K., your Mac) and maybe laminate it. You can keep this in your stick bag as well to make sure you have everything before you leave for your gig.

Warming up before a gig

2009-11-29T16:22:00.000+07:00

Warming up before a gig. This is terribly underestimated. Spend 20 to 30 minutes warming up with drum rudiments and related sticking exercises. Practice them with music playing through a Walkman. It's a great motivator and you'll be very loose when you get ready to play.

Non Standard Sizes Of Drum Sticks And Their Impact On Drumming

2009-11-22T07:36:00.001+07:00

By: Ronald Black

You'll sometimes see sticks made by one manufacturer or another that are named after a famous drummer. These are usually slight variations on a standard size, and they usually cost a little bit more because the person after whom they're named is just really, really cool. It's certainly not a bad idea to check out a pair named after a drum hero of yours, but don't expect to magically sound as good as your hero by merely using his sticks. I know you're smarter than that, and I don't even know you. However, if I ever come out with my own model of sticks, then you'll know that they are magical. You might also see sticks that are not named after someone, but also are not standard sizes.

These are usually sizes that fall in between the standard sizes. If you want to check these out, it's important to ask "Oh, these are like 5As but a quarter-inch longer", or "These are in between a 5A and a 5B". If you've tried a standard size and it never feels quite right, some of these in between sizes are worth checking out. One of them might be the perfect stick for you. Ten Pairs of Sticks for a Dollar: just Say No! At some point very soon in your future, you might walk into a large music store and notice that there are some sticks named after the store that cost so little that it seems like the price must be a mistake. The mistake would be for you to buy them. I know it's tempting: Why would you want to pay up to $10 for one pair of sticks when you can get 10 pairs for the same $10? For one thing, drumsticks are made of wood, and wood can be very inconsistent.

What this means to a drummer is that you can have three pairs of sticks that are supposed to be the very same weight, but they don't feel the same when you compare them. One pair might feel much heavier or lighter than another pair. One thing that a name (or more expensive) brand offers you is greater consistency between pairs. In other words, higher quality brands go to the trouble of making sure that every stick of a certain size feels as close to the same as possible. That is why they get the big bucks. When you buy the cheap sticks, even though they are all supposed to be the same weight, they can vary wildly. There is nothing worse than dropping or breaking a stick during a show, reaching into your stick bag for a quick replacement, and having the new stick go flying out of your hand because it's lighter than a butterfly's antenna.

The straightness of a stick is also an important factor. The first class sticks are almost always as straight as they can possibly be. If sticks shaped like a banana (which the cheap sticks can often be) were easy to play with, we would just use really hard bananas instead of sticks. Try it if you don't believe me. You might think that the cheap sticks might last as long as the top-shelf ones, but they won't. You'll end up with a big pile of lousy broken sticks, while the good sticks will still be in one piece. Also, the cheap sticks can break while you're playing them, fly into your face, and kill you. I've never actually heard of this happening, but why take a chance with your life?

Non Standard Sizes Of Drum Sticks And Their Impact On Drumming

Drum Rack Or Stands

2009-10-28T07:20:00.002+07:00

Drum Racks And Drum Stands Discussed

Stands
Stands for drum kits were initially fairly light weight, because they were designed to hold one cymbal, or a snare drum, or later on two rack toms. However, it wasn't until the 1980's that drum companies beefed up the hardware making it possible to have a steady base of support for multiple cymbal arms, etc.

For a while stands keep getting heavier and bigger, finally adding counter-weight booms and getting big enough to jack up your car for a tire change. Nowadays, that "race" has backed off a bit and drum kit stands are available in a variety of sizes (and weights), with clamps and attachments for all sorts of gear. So you do not necessarily need a separate stand for each cymbal or other item with those options available nowadays.

Racks
Drum racks had been "home made" versions until recent years. I remember seeing one from the 1930's. They are now available from several major companies in a variety of shapes and materials (aluminum, steel, PVC, other composites) with all sorts of extensions, add ons, clamps, arms you name it. It can probably be configured now from commercially available parts.

Okay, So Why Choose One Over The Other
I have used both racks and traditional stands. I have even used a combination of by having spanner tubes connected to cymbals stands (which was the best of both worlds for me). It worked great for my touring needs because all of the cymbals, toms, microphones, etc. were on the spanner tubes and the supports were actually heavy duty cymbal stands. That made it easy to set up because I didn't have to juggle a one legged post while trying to clamp on a fairly heavy (because of all of the attachment clamps) spanner tube. As just the 28 clamps on the tubes made them very heavy.

About Using Racks
If you seen the photos of Pasha's drum kit, then you realize that without using rack system components that he would require an incredible number of specialty stands. There is no question to me that using the racks are a must for him.

Racks can eliminate a lot of floor clutter if you use a lot of gear that is now on (or else would be) on separate stands. It is now possible to have everything, including your snare drum, and hi-hat, attached to a rack set-up. If you don't use a rug to mark the floor positions of the components of your drum kit, then a rack might help you with positioning the components of your drum kit the same way each time. It might not happen to you, but I have experienced times when the tubes of the rack interfered with the spot I wanted to place a cymbal or a tom. So it takes a lot of time and trial & error to get it all "just right". That also means that a rack system might not be as easy to modify when you find yourself on a stage with less than desirable space.

About Using Stands
Stands can be adjusted and moved "on the spot" without a lot of hassle in situations like a small stage. It is also possible to significantly reduce the number of stands by using clamps and attachments. Stands are a more flexible option if you tend to change your drum kit configuration for different performances.

Transport
Whether you choose to use a rack or traditional stands, they must be transported to the next performance. So if you do a lot of one niters, either way could mean schlepping a lot of weight around if you have a large drum kit. I don't believe there is much of a weight or load volume difference.

I did not want 400 pounds of drum stands to transport so here are some of my personal set-up decisions that might give you some ideas.

I have reduced my hardware load considerably during the past five years. The attachments and clamps available now have made that possible.

I don't usually use a really big set, so this is what works for me. On my left side I have one single braced stand that holds a cymbal, a mounted tambourine, and a rack tom. On my bass drum, the mounts hold two rack toms and a cymbal. On my right side, a second single-braced stand holds three cymbals, a cowbell and a jam block. The other hardware left to pack is my throne, bass drum pedals, snare stand and hi-hat stand.

I purchased an SKB Hardware case (that looks much like a hard shell golf club flight case) that is 48" x 18" and has tilt-back wheels. I do not break down the tiers on my stands. I just remove the cymbals rods. I did not disassemble my hi-hat or snare stand. I simply collapse the legs. I can lay the still-assembled stands into the SKB case for transport. When I set up my kit, it is just a matter of placing the cymbals rods back into the ratchets and opening up the tripod legs.

I think racks look really cool with some kits, although when they get really bulky it kind of hides the beautiful finishes on some drum kits. But, I think too many floor stands can look just as cluttered also. Maybe that's just the reality of using a really large drum kit.

I have used racks, stands, and the combination of both. I had my logic and reasons for that. Nowadays my playing involves using various components, depending on the performances requirements. Since I change things quite often I'm back to using stands. If I had a larger kit and was playing the exact same set-up each performance, I'd probably get my rack gear back out.

So, like so many aspects of drumming, it comes down to your personal preference of comfort, stability, convenience, portability, and even the desired "look". hey, it's all about you.

Ken Sanders
Drum Rack Or Stands

Steve Gadd - In Session - Watch free drum lessons & techniques video

2009-10-18T07:49:00.003+07:00

82.39 minutes
Steve Gadd and friends live, in session, featuring Richard Tee, Will Lee, Forge Calto and Eddie Gomez.
Steve Gadd demonstrating several explosive Latin feels - and then explaining how he did them - topped off by some of the most exciting solos Steve has ever recorded. This video comes with its own accompanying instructional booklet, contains a wealth of teaching by simply showing Gadd playing his relentlessly impeccable licks in loose improvisatory jams, and fleshing them out with illustrative voiceover comments. Watch him jam out with amazing musicians in such styles as funk, Latin, reggae, shuffles and ballads.

Steve Gadd - In Session - Watch free drum lessons & techniques video

If this video is not showing up, You can also see this video here
Track list
1. R&B Reggae
2. My Little Brother
3. Suffle Reggae
4. Slow Blues
And more tracks

Steve Gadd - In Session - Watch free drum lessons & techniques video

Heavy Metal Music, Double Bass - History And Development Drummers Guide

2009-09-28T07:19:00.002+07:00

By: Eric Starr
Heavy Metal music has been a driving force in Rock for over 30 years. The style developed in the late 1960s and early 1970s through classic Hard Rock and the louder Blues Rock bands. Since then, it has evolved into music featuring exceptionally fast, technically challenging rhythms and heavy drumming, frequently accompanied by growling vocals and heavy, blistering guitar tones. The style usually requires an exceptional amount of endurance from the musicians playing it.
Terms associated with contemporary Heavy Metal are "Death Metal," "Goth Metal," "Black Metal," "Speed Metal," and "Thrash," which all suggest its sound. Bands such as Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, Black Sabbath and solo artist Alice Cooper are among the originators of the Heavy Metal style, which even at its inception featured louder, harsher guitar, more active bass and drum parts, and darker lyrics than in standard Rock. Another feature of Heavy Metal is that many of its artists put on live concerts involving elaborate stage sets, intricate light shows, pyrotechnics, and outrageous costumes (Kiss).

The Heavy Metal sound initially relied on high pitched singers (Robert Plant of Led Zeppelin), but has since evolved to embrace lower range, roaring vocals. Over the past two decades, metal bands such as Venom, Napalm Death, Carcass, Cannibal Corpse, and Slayer set a new standard for the intensity this music can achieve, paving the way for current Heavy Metal acts such as Meshuggah, Emperor, and Slipknot. Heavy Metal drummers need to develop the considerable speed, coordination, and dexterity necessary to play the intricate patterns, most notably double bass drum patterns, inherent to this style. Typically, Heavy Metal drummers utilize two bass drums in their set up, though a similar double bass effect can be achieved with a double pedal playing one bass drum.

Variations move from simple to more complex patterns, and are only an introduction to authentic Heavy Metal drumming. The most advanced Heavy Metal drumming grooves can also incorporate ideas and patterns from Fusion and Linear Funk. One of the signatures of the genre is the guitar power chord. In technical terms, the power chord is relatively simple: it involves just one main interval, generally the perfect fifth, though an octave may be added as a doubling of the root. Although the perfect fifth interval is the most common basis for the power chord, power chords are also based on different intervals such as the minor third, major third, perfect fourth, diminished fifth, or minor sixth. Tempos range from quarter note = sixty beats per minute to speeds exceeding quarter note = three hundred and fifty beats per minute.

Double bass playing is a strong characteristic of Heavy Metal. Skilled double bass drummers can perform anything from extremely fast alternating 16th note rhythms to polyrhythms to syncopated rhythms to rudimental style drumming with their feet (double stroke rolls, flamed rudiments, etc.). Be aware that it's necessary to have patience developing the dexterity, control, and strength required for double bass drumming. Unlike the majority of musical styles covered, double bass drumming is primarily based on muscular development, and it takes ample time to become a well versed double bass drummer. The grooves include some essential patterns of this style of drumming. Quarter note = one hundred all the way to two hundred beats per minute.

Heavy Metal Music, Double Bass - History And Development Drummers Guide

Play "heel up" on the bass drum for more power and speed

2009-09-22T07:29:00.000+07:00

Play "heel up" on the bass drum for more power and speed.
The heel down bass drum technique will work but requires a bit more effort. Also, it's easier to play heel up technique with quick drum fills.

Mike Portnoy - Progressive Drum Concepts - Video drum technique

2009-08-30T07:31:00.003+07:00

Mike Portnoy - Progressive Drum Concepts - Video drum technique
59.54 minutes
Intended for intermediate to advanced-level drummers, PROGRESSIVE DRUM CONCEPTS. Mike Portnoy, the drummer for the progressive heavy metal band Dream Theater, presents a fantastic instructional video for intermediate to advanced players.

Mike Portnoy - Progressive Drum Concepts - Video drum technique

If this video is not showing up, You can also see this video here
Topics include:
Full Descriptionone's drum set, drum set assembly, double-bass techniques, odd time signatures, grooves and phrasing, and more.
Mike Portnoy, with John Myung on bass and Derek Sherinian on keyboard, plays various examples from Dream Theater songs:"Pull Me Under" "Voices" "Metropolis" "A Change of Seasons" "Surround" "Take the Time" "Erotomania".

Mike Portnoy - Progressive Drum Concepts - Video drum technique

Drum Mic Techniques

2009-08-28T07:24:00.002+07:00

by Bob Idakaar

Snare
Mic placement should be 1-3 inches above the head, outside the outer rim but aimed at the center of the head. If there's too much of a pitched sound (like toms or timbales) and not enough snap, the mic may be too close. Experiment with the distance and position of the mic until you get closer to the desired sound. Some prefer the sound of a snare with an additional mic underneath the drum aimed at the snare wire (no closer than 2 inches). This under-snare mic should be compressed and switched out of phase. Some like this sound and some hate it, but it definately accentuates the snare sound of the snare drum.
A lot of engineers will make sure to bounce the two snare sounds together once recorded, or sometimes while recording. You could also try taping wadded paper towels or adhesive foam weather stripping to the head to get rid of any ringing. Tuning tricks: for a fat snare sound try tuning the bottom head to a lower pitch (really low) than the top head. For a cutting snare sound try tuning the bottom head up in pitch and keep the top head tuned lower.

Toms
The rack toms can be miked individually or as a pair, with a single mic placed between and above the two drums at a short distance. Usually, the toms are miked 1-2 inches in from the rim at a distance of 1-3 inches. Closer mic placement yields more of a dead sound, while more distant miking yeilds more of a live sound. For a more isolated sound between the toms, with less of an attack, you can remove the bottom head and position the mic 1-5 inches away from the top head inside the drum. The floor tom is usually miked using the same techniques. A good economy of mics is to use one placed inbetween the two rack toms, and one on the floor tom.

Bass Drum
Getting a good bass drum sound can be the most difficult and most rewarding part of recording drums. Because of the low frequencies as well as the proximity effect involved with using dynamic mics, a lot of different sounds can be achieved just by playing with the mic placement on the head. Often, drummers who have recorded a lot will have a precise spot they like to have miked. Large diaphragm dynamic mics designed for low frequencies are usually used to mike the bass drum. The drum head can be miked anywhere from the outside rim all the way to the center of the head, producing different sounds. Generally miking near the rim of the head produces more of the head sound, while miking toward the center produces more of the thud from the bass drum beater. Placing the mic closer to the head produces a warm sound, while miking farther away produces more of the high frequency click from the beater. Different bass drums will sound different, as well. You want to make certain that the tuning of the drum is producing as much of the desired sound, as well. A bass drum that sounds bad acoustically is doomed from the start. No amount of microphone placement can make a bad sounding bass drum sound great.

Hi-Hat Cymbals
You can pick up the hi-hats by bleed through from the snare drum mic, if the placement of the snare mic is pointed in the direction of the hi-hats. Or you can pick up more of the hi-hats by placing one of the two overhead mics used for the crash and ride cymbals over the hi-hats. But if a stronger hi-hat sound is desired you can also mike the hi-hats seperately. You want to avoid placing the mic in between the top and bottom hi-hat cymbals, as the sharp burst of air when the cymbals meet will be captured through the mic.

Overhead Cymbal Miking
Overhead cymbal mics are used to get more of the high frequency sound of the cymbals, as well as get an overall blended sound of the snare, toms, and hi-hat. There are three main techniques used. One is using an evenly spaced pair of microphones, above the cymbals pointing down towards the cymbals, or drums. You can also use a single figure-eight pattern mic, with the dead spot of the figure eight pointed down towards the middle of the kit, and the two sides of the figure eight pointing left and right.

Drum Mic Techniques

Steve Gadd - Up Close - Free drum technique video

2009-07-31T08:57:00.002+07:00

Steve Gadd - Up Close - Free drum technique video
59.50 minutes
The format of this "instructional" DVD is an interview, with Steve Gadd not only answering the questions, but demonstrating in response. While this is not as warm and personal as, say, Tommy Igoe's approach that is epitomized in his instructional "Groove Essentials" (ASIN B00064YTKM), it nonetheless gives you keen insights into Steve Gadd's techniques and underlying philosophies.

Steve Gadd - Up Close - Free drum technique video

Material is wide ranging, covering every topic from how to apply basic drum rudiments into live playing, to bass drum technique, to time keeping and how to approach practicing. A highlight is Steve's deconstruction of his drumwork on Paul Simon's "Fifty Ways to Leave Your Lover", and the amazing discussion/demonstration of his four stick technique on Paul Simon's "Late in the Evening". The segment on Samba patterns is another part I especially liked on this video.

Other material includes how to approach recording sessions, breathing techniques, and how to quickly get the essence of a piece from charts - and Steve does strongly emphasize the importance of reading music.

Steve Gadd - Up Close - Free drum technique video

Customising your Drum Kit

2009-07-11T07:14:00.002+07:00

Customising your Drum Kit
by Martin Algra
Customising your drum kit is a very personal thing and includes the way it looks, sounds, set-up and accessories. When I was not actually playing I would take every opportunity to watch and listen to other drummers and have seen some very weird and wonderful customisations. A particular favourite of mine was a very good band where the drum kit was actually attached to a scaffolding frame and included a 6 feet diameter J Arthur Rank Gong, which he only used for one particular number, but very effective.
It is quite common now to see a drum kit of gigantic proportions containing as many as 8 to 10 drums including two base drums and a multitude of cymbals, although I am of the opinion that a basic 4 or 5 piece drum set is quite adequate for most of us mere mortals.

Whatever your preference it is very important that you get the essentials right and they include the base drum pedal, the high-hat pedal and stand, the snare drum and cymbals.

Base drum pedals are a mechanical mechanism and should be as smooth, comfortable and as silent as possible (no squeaks) to allow you the greatest flexibility to eventually achieve those complicated bass drum rhythms. The same applies to the high-hat pedal and stand and I would recommend spending as much as you can afford on these two items, you won't regret it.

The snare drum will be the most used piece of your drum kit which can be made of wood or metal and should incorporate at least a 14 strand snare with adequate damping and adjustment. It is also a good idea to have a rough top skin which works well if you use brushes, ideal for jazz drums. A good solid and adjustable stand will add to your enjoyment.

The cymbals are also an essential, but often overlooked part of your drum kit and should wherever possible be of the best quality cast bronze such as Zildjian or Sabian . I would recommend at the very least 14" high-hat cymbals a 20" ride cymbal with bell top and 16" to 18" crash cymbal. Good solid adjustable stands with boom will help make the placement of your cymbals easier.

Finally don't forget the throne (stool) as you will be spending a great deal of time sitting down and you will want to be as comfortable as possible, so make sure it has adequate adjustment and is well padded.

The next step is think about accessories, but perhaps I will feature these in my next article.

If you want to see a truly great classical style drummer in action take a look at Buddy Rich at the Hague on YouTube.

Mike Portnoy - Drums Across Forever -Free Progressive metal drum video

2009-05-17T07:52:00.002+07:00

Mike Portnoy - Drums Across Forever -Free Progressive metal drum video
70.46 minutes
Mike Portnoy's Drum-cam footage from Transatlantic's Bridge Across Forever recording sessions.
Audio Options include: Full Band, Studio and an Audio Commentary with Mike.
Dream Theater
Track list
1. Duel With The Devil
2. Suite Charlotte Pike
3. Stranger In Your Soul
4. Shine On You Crazy Diamond

Mike Portnoy - Drums Across Forever

If this video is not showing up, You can also see this video here

Mike Portnoy - Drums Across Forever - Free Progressive metal drum video

Non Standard Sizes Of Drum Sticks And Their Impact On Drumming

2009-05-17T07:50:00.001+07:00

Check out Niche Cymbal Brands from Cymbalism Music

2009-04-10T07:49:00.001+07:00

Check out Niche Cymbal Brands from Cymbalism Music
By: sh

Today more so than at any other time drums of all levels have more choices as to which cymbal brands they buy. Gone are the days when all that was available were the big three brands Zildjian, Sabian and Paiste. Today drums can choose from many small very high end cymbal brands such as Meinl, Alchemy, Istanbul Agop, Bosphorus and TRX to name a few. These new lines give the drummer the chance to finally break away from the boring and generic offerings from the big three that have been shoved upon them for so many years and truly be different and unique. These smaller brands offer other advantages that the big boys do not. One they are for the most part completely hand made and of a much higher quality, second they generally have a richer and more satisfying tone then most cymbals and thirdly they are made in much smaller quantities and are more exclusive. For these reasons I believe every drummer should look at their cymbal options and see how much their cymbal set up can improve.

Most of these brands such as Bosphorus and Istanbul Agop hail from Istanbul, Turkey. Meinl is from Germany but has a plant in Turkey for their Byzance line. These companies are mostly family run and passed down threw generations. The art of cymbal making is a centuries old process and is learned by working in these factories. Most new cymbal companies in Istanbul are started by former employees of other cymbal companies and follow very similar production methods. All Turkish hand made cymbals start with the molten metal alloy, from various metals, being cast into round ingots. Once the ingot is set the process of rolling the metal flat and round begins using large metal rollers. Once the round shape if achieved, workers begin the process of hand hammering and lathing the cymbal to achieve the final sound and appearance characteristics. Depending on the style of the cymbal lathing and hammering can vary greatly which gives customers many great styles and sounds to choose from.

Cymbalism Music is one of the few cymbal retailers to offer exclusively smaller and niche brand cymbals. We believe that the big three brands have dominated the market too long and have been offering mass produced and very generic products. These companies are far more concerned about quantity than quality and unfortunately most drummers will be stuck playing these cymbals unless they take the step to explore what’s now available to them. Regretfully the smaller cymbal companies don’t have the marketing budget of the big boys and don’t have the exposure that they need. We can only hope that as popularity grows for their products so will their availability. As for now check out Cymbalismmusic.com for a full selection of all the top niche brands.

Mike Portnoy Drumavarium - Progressive metal drum technique

2009-03-11T07:18:00.001+07:00

Mike Portnoy Drumavarium - Progressive metal drum technique
66.53 min
Mike's Drum-cam footage from Dream Theaters Octavarium recording sessions.
Audio Options include: Full Band, and Isolated Drums.
Bonus Feature include over 3 minutes of Studio Outtakes.

Mike Portnoy Drumavarium - Progressive metal drum technique

Track list
1. The Root Of All Evil
2. The Answer Lies Within
3. These Walls
4. I Walk Beside You
5. Panic Attack
6. Never Enough
7. Sacrificed Sons
8. Octavarium

Mike Portnoy Drumavarium - Progressive metal drum technique

Taking Care Of Drums, Cymbals, And Other Equipment On Gigs.

2009-03-11T07:15:00.002+07:00

By: Eric Starr

Taking care of drums, cymbals and hardware, comes down to common sense. For the most part, if you treat your equipment right, it should last you a lifetime. Buying expensive new gear should only be the result of a desire to upgrade, not the result of poor instrument management.

If you're like most people, you've done something absent-minded. Maybe you lost your car keys or left your bank card in the ATM. Who hasn't left their brown-bag lunch on the kitchen counter at home?

There is probably no working musician who hasn't had something break during a performance or left something behind after a gig. As a drummer, you are usually one of the last to leave after a show. It's not uncommon to see sheet music, a stray stand light, or some other small article left behind by the other musicians, who are in a rush to get home or to another gig. Don't let this be you. It is ordained by life that you will make some mistakes and unwise decisions. But with regard to your drumming career, minimize distressful and forgetful moments by following some basic commonsense guidelines. First of all, if you take your equipment outside of your home, keep a close eye on it. Second, if you decide to store your drums where you're not, make sure they're in good hands.

Let's look at this common scenario: Let's say you're performing at a rock club. Do you feel safe leaving equipment at the club while you go and eat dinner with the rest of the band? Is it safe to even leave your equipment in the back room while you chat with friends at the bar? Rock clubs, indeed all clubs, are potential hazards. Most rock clubs book a lineup of bands each night and time slots are given to each group. Band X plays for forty-five minutes, the stage is quickly struck, and then the next band comes up followed by yet another band, and so on. The evening's bill may include as many as ten bands, especially if it's some sort of festival or benefit concert. Musicians will be carting equipment in and out of the club often in assembly line fashion. Usually, the backstage area of a rock club is a whirlwind of activity. To make things more complicated, there is usually only one spot in the club where musicians pile up gear. Often, drum cases and cymbals bags are jumbled together, along with guitars, speaker cabinets, personal wardrobe, and so on. Of course, you need to know the look of your gear from afar. Drum cases tend to make everybody's equipment look identical. It's a good idea to place brightly colored stickers on your cases so that your gear doesn't get mixed in with that loud metal drummer who played before you. Also, include a tag on all of your cases indicating your name, address, and telephone number.

You don't need to be a rocket scientist to calculate that this environment equals trouble. The good news is that rarely do musicians purposely steal equipment from other bands, but mistakes do happen. In a situation like the one just described, watch your gear with an eagle eye. If you have other responsibilities such as greeting friends, first make sure that your equipment is safe and secure. If you absolutely must leave your drums' side, don't go too far and check back about every five minutes. When you're at a club, survey the scene. Always ask yourself, "Are there back exits to the club?" If so, be extra-careful since, as mentioned, equipment will be going in and out. If there is no back exit, but you need to say hello to Uncle Gary, who is sitting in the corner, keep one eye on the front door to watch what comes in and what goes out. Again, this is just common sense.

Jan Wolfkamp - Percussion Improvisation

2009-02-10T08:03:00.002+07:00

Jan Wolfkamp is a Dutch drummer/percussionist/loopist who studied classical percussion and jazz at the conservatorium in Holland.
After finishing his studies in 1986 he performed in various theater music productions, including Jenny Arean, Robert Paul, Robert Long, Macbeth, Hessel v/d Wal, Big Band Bodycheck, Sido Martens, Alleen op de Wereld and Purper.
With his solo project Pads Alloud! he released two CD albums.
As a soloist he performed at several percussion festivals.
As a member of the Greg Howard Band with Stick-player Greg Howard (USA), he combines acoustic and electronic drums into live looping.

Jan Wolfkamp - Percussion Improvisation
6.42 min
Solo impro on accoustic/electronic drums with realtime looping.

Double Basses Or Double Beater Pedals

2009-01-24T07:15:00.002+07:00

Drum Hardware Discussion
By: Eric Starr

First, let me state that I am not implying that double bass playing is a "must" for all drum solo artists. I'm only saying that if you do want to use double bass drum effects, that today there are two basic directions to consider. Second, I'm limiting my discussion to acoustic drums, since I believe electronics is a separate category to discuss at at another time.

Okay, let's discuss both acoustic bass drum options.

For many years I used two bass drums and there are at least two distinct advantages with that option.
To the audience, it has a distinctive visual appeal.
You can use different pitches and/or different sized bass drums for unique tonal patterns.

But, there are also some possible concerns about using two bass drums.
They (perhaps) take up a larger area for your drum kit on stage.
There is an extra bass drum to transport (which certainly may not bother everyone).
The positioning of other components of the drum kit may be more difficult. Depending on your reach and the "spread" of the other components, this can impact your comfort and dexterity.

The Zalmer Twin pedal was in production when I started using double bass drums. If you've never heard of it, you may want to Google that one. I tried the Zalmer Twin pedal but the secondary pedal was not smooth at all and it certainly was not responsive (quick) enough to consider for my playing purposes. Although it was a very cool concept for it's day, it just wasn't my "cup of tea".

I initially used an 18" bass drum and a 22" bass drum (obviously with different pitches)which opened up some pretty cool possibilities for jazzy improvisations. However, after evaluating the possibilities of using them in my hired gun work, I realized that two 22" bass drums with the same pitch was probably better.

Using two bass drums meant getting my hi hat stand footboard in a comfortable and playable position. After all, I would play it more than I would the secondary bass drum pedal. I took a hi hat stand, from which I removed the legs, and then attached it to the secondary bass drum counter hoop with a Rogers brand hoop clamp. That didn't prove to be sturdy enough, so I added a second clamp to lock the stand into position solidly. That worked.

So far, so good, but now there was another "gear" problem I had with my cymbals. When I first started playing double bass drums, boom cymbal stands were not around (yeah, I guess I'm really getting old now). So I also had to rig something up for the cymbals on the left side of my kit that was dependable and solid.

Here's what I did. I used the Ludwig double tom mount on the second bass drum and placed two of the the old shell mount style sliding cymbal holders onto the L rods. Later, I saw a picture of Ginger Baker in Cream, and guess what? He was doing the same thing. I then mounted the two rack toms on a stand between my right and left bass drums. Everything on the right side of kit fell into place without special modifications.

Anyway, if you look at pictures of double bass drum kits in the mid sixties, you'll see that a lot of drummers were rigging up comfortable ways to position the hi hat and other cymbals on their kits.

Well let's go back to the double beater bass drum pedal. Since 1986, I've been using a double bass pedal on one bass drum. Basically, when they finally produced one that was smooth, durable, and responcive enough to suit me, I bought it!
And for me that has worked out fine.

The other double bass pedals I've used since 1986 have constantly improved and the ones I have today are indeed, as responsive as anyone could desire. The double beater bass drum pedals on one bass drum provide me with a comfortable set-up and the "feel" is great.

Additionally, the rotating leg hi hat stands made today and highly adjustable boom cymbal stands are so well thought out that it makes my old rigs look like Frankenstein engineering. I had some other rigged up hardware too, but we'll discuss another time.

So today, in my opinion, at least the factors involved in making a decision of whether you want to use double bass drums or double pedals comes down to simply your own personal preference.

If you prefer the attention-getting cool look and the ability to use different pitches, then use two bass drums. All the hardware you need to get a comfortable set-up is available nowadays.

If you want "less to transport" andif you like both bass drum beaters generating the exact same pitch, then use a double pedal. You'll find several drummers today, who like me, switched to double beater pedals for those reasons.

Either way, I encourage those who are interested, to enjoy the creative possibilities of double bass drum figures in their performances. Also be glad that the old drummers, that were out there before you, pushed drum designers to improve double bass drum equipment. Today you have great choices!

Mike Portnoy - Liquid Drum Theater - The best drummer

2009-01-09T08:13:00.012+07:00

This DVD documents Mike Portnoy's innovative drumming in the highly acclaimed fusion/progressive metal music of Dream Theater and Liquid Tension Experiment.

This 2-disc DVD set features Mike Portnoy of Dream Theater. Volume One features music of Dream Theater and Liquid Tension Experiment, with Mike performing eight songs & segments, breaking down parts of each.Featured throughout is exclusive ... Full Descriptionfootage of the making of the first LTE album, as well as rare live footage of the band. Volume Two focuses on the muic of Dream Theater. Mike performs eleven songs/segments from "Falling Into Infinity" and "Scenes From a Memory;" there is also exclusive live footage of Dream Theater's 1998 World Tour.

Mike Portnoy - Liquid Drum Theater part 1
90 min

Two video set documenting the music of Dream Theater and Liquid Tension Experiment. Video One takes you into the studio with LTE where Mike Portnoy plays eight songs, breaking down his technique and explains patterns and fills. Video Two: Mike performs eleven songs from Dream Theater, with detailed explanations of double bass technique, and odd-timing. Live footage of both bands included as well as a website containing musical transcriptions of songs included.

See Mike Portnoy - Liquid Drum Theater part 2

See Mike Portnoy - Liquid Drum Theater part 3,4

Time To Replace Drum Heads

2008-12-16T07:30:00.002+07:00

By: Eric Starr

While there are different types of drum heads, and some of them are specifically made to last longer, the general idea as to "when exactly is the time to replace drum heads" stays the same. Drum heads lifetime depends mostly, but not entirely on the drummer himself, - the level of attack the drummer is giving while stroking drum heads.
- "Ken, my drums were sounding fantastic just a few weeks ago and now they just sound bad. Any idea what has happened to that great sound I had?"

Well, first I will assume that you do tune your drums as needed and that all of the tension rods didn’t suddenly strip out. So, I’d suspect some drum heads now need replacement.

Drum heads, like guitar strings, don’t have to break in order to need replacing. Like guitar strings, they need to be replaced when they won’t hold tunings and the resonance in gone. Your ears should tell you "hey this doesn’t sound good anymore". Plus, many times, drum heads won’t feel good anymore either. Hey you rock and roll animal, they just wear out.

The most common variables for when to replace your drum heads include:
How often you play ?
How hard you play ?
What kind of heads you use ?

The first head to go on my set is always the snare drum batter. It just gets a lot of hard strokes and because I like the sound of a single ply coated batter on my snare drums, that kind of head isn’t going to last as long as some other heads might. Now, I could buy other types of heads with more durability but they don't have the sound and feel I prefer. Just like the guitar player could use heavier gauge strings, but they would feel and play like steel cables to his fingers. The point is that is a "feel vs. durability" decision that only you can make for your drum kit heads.

There is a simple test to see just how much wear your snare drum batter head gets after just one gig. At the end of the show, just take it the previously "new" head off and look at it. Does it have lots of dents in it? Is the middle “caved in” pretty deep? If it is really dented up or if it has a big “crater” spot in the middle, then it’s had it. Some drummers can get through several performances without changing snare batter heads. Some change them are every gig. I typically get about three shows out of one.

I usually change the snare bottom heads about every fifth batter head. You may experience a different replacement cycle. However, the bottom heads do wear out from the constant snare vibrations and you would be amazed at just how much a dead snare bottom head absolutely kills your snare drum’s sound.

So how do I remember whether I’m on the second batter head or the fifth? Man, I really can't. I play different snare drums for different performances so I really don’t remember. I have to write the number on the head. What I do is write the “change” number (1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 AND the date) on the head’s counter hoop with a Sharpie pen. When I get to new batter head number “4”, I know that the next drum head purchase needs to include a bottom snare head too. I write the date on the snare bottom head for future reference also.

Now, depending upon the same variables mentioned above, the tom tom batter heads, and the bass drum batter heads will, at some point, start to feel weird and sound less than desirable. That should signal possible replacement.

Resonant heads on toms last much longer than the snare drum bottom heads because they don’t have the wire snares on them, but they do will fatigue at some point. They too, will need to be included in your own unique replacement cycle scheme.

The snare wires also get worn out and “stretched out” after lots of playing time. There’s no discernible time table, but you should be able to hear the problem of dead or stretched out snares. If you can’t, then just do this. Flip your snare strainer off to the “released” position. Now look at the snare wires. Are they hanging even and all of the strands seem to be properly aligned? Or are they uneven and maybe some of the snare wire are pulled out and rattling? If so, it’s time for some new ones.

The various brands and models of drum heads have their own sound and tuning characteristics, and different durability factors. There are more choices today than ever before. You, and only you, can decide what drum heads perform best for your needs.

I will share this last observation with you. I used to constantly experiment with various drum heads, and ended up with stacks of new drum heads that I did not like. Now that I have identified the kinds of heads that I do like, I stay with those models when I purchase replacement heads. After all, the factor that most concerns me is consistently getting the the sound that I want.

Time To Replace Drum Heads

Jeff Porcaro - Drum Lesson

2008-11-17T15:36:00.003+07:00

30 min
One of the greatest drummers of all time Jeff Porcaro showing some drum tricks.
Favourite part of an instructional video Jeff released shortly before his death. Grooving at it's best.

Jeff Porcaro - Drum Lesson

Track list
Pedal technique
Hi-hat technique
Stick technique
Samba Example 1
Samba Example 2
Mushanga Example 1
Mushanga Example 2
Eigth Noth Triplet Groove
Shuffle Example 1
Shuffle Example 2
Shuffle Example 3
Jazz Shuffle Example 1
Jazz Shuffle Example 2

When learning to play double bass pedal take a metrinome

2008-11-07T15:59:00.001+07:00

When learning to play double bass pedal take a metrinome and set it to a speed that is comforatable and keep that tempo for 5 minutes then take the tempo up 10-20 BPM. repeat as neccisary.
By Slex

Basic Drum Kit Tuning

2008-11-07T15:55:00.002+07:00

by Clint Strait

Regularly and accurately tuning your drum kit should be a religious maintenance routine. Nothing amplifies the sound of good drummer better than a tightly tuned set of drums, and it can even make the average drummer shine a little brighter. Before you play your first note, taking the time to tune your kit immediately increases your level of performance and commitment to excellence.

As you should already know, a basic drum kit includes a bass drum, cymbal, snare, hi-hats and toms, and it is fairly customary to start by tuning your snare drum. This can be the most precarious drum to tune because the heads are known to bust easily. First, tune the top head. Turn each lug with your drum key clockwise to increase the tension or counter clockwise to release tensions, or lower the pitch. After adjusting one lug, moved to a lug on the opposite side, at 180 degrees from the first one. Then you can move back to the first lug and adjust the lug next to it, continuing on in similar way for the rest of the head. As you adjust ach lug, lightly tapping approximately one inch away from each lug with a drumstick. By making sure each lug is holding the same pitch, your drum will soon be tuned.

Many drummers tackle the toms next. Toms have the most noticeable rendering of pitch, so it is important to do a good job. Start tuning the bottom head of your toms first, using the same time of lug alternating technique. Once the bottom head has equal tension, you can move on to tuning the head, which is how you will adjust the pitch of the overall drum sound. To do this, you will need to know what pitch you are trying to match. You can use a piano, a pitch pipe, or you can even match to your guitarist. Once you know the pitch you want, proceed with adjusting the lugs on the top head until that pitch is obtained. Once you have found the right pitch, you will need to recheck the pitch near each lug, just like the snare drum.

Now you are ready to move on to the bass drum and start by tuning the head. You should not spend too long trying to tune the head, because the head of a bass drum is less of a factor in the sound of the drum. Once the head feels right to you and all the lugs are even, you can tune the back head so to your taste. Tunings for bass drums vary greatly depending on the style of music and the other instruments in your ensemble. So before you begin any of this process, you need to have an idea of the sound you would like to produce and the relative pitches that will help you create that sound. As you increase in skill and taste, you will continue to become more particular about the tuning of your drums.

Modern Drummer Festival 2003 part 3

2008-10-08T15:57:00.002+07:00

59.55 min
Modern Drummer Festival 2003 featured an almost unprecedented cross section of great drummers and percussionists.
Features Louis Santiago, Jr., winner of the Undiscovered Drummer Contest in the over 18 category, The Hip Pickles, The Nathaniel Townsley Trio, Matt Wilson and His Band, Steve Smith and Vital Information, Mike Portnoy and Yellow Matter Custard, and the Drumbassadors.

Steve Smith (born on August 21, 1954 in Whitman, Massachusetts) is a famous American drummer who has worked with hundreds of artists in his career. Modern Drummer Magazine readers voted him the #1 All-Around Drummer five years in a row. In 2001, Modern Drummer named Steve as one of the Top 25 Drummers of All Time, and in 2002 he as voted into the Modern Drummer Hall of Fame.
Steve Smith website

Modern Drummer Festival 2003 part 3

Track Artist/Band Title
20. Steve Smith And Vital Information A Little Something
21. Steve Smith And Vital Information Over And Out!
22. Mike Portnoy With Yellow Matter Custard While My Guitar Gently Weeps
23. Mike Portnoy With Yellow Matter Custard I Am The Walrus
24. Mike Portnoy With Yellow Matter Custard A Day In The Life
25. Dream Theater Dream Theater Medley
26. Mike Portnoy Rehearsal

Michael Stephen "Mike" Portnoy (born April 20, 1967) American drummer primarily known for his work with the progressive metal band Dream Theater. Known for his drum prowess, Portnoy has won 23 awards from the Modern Drummer magazine. He has co-produced the last five Dream Theater albums with John Petrucci, starting from Metropolis Pt. 2: Scenes from a Memory. From A Change of Seasons onwards, Portnoy has been writing a substantial amount of Dream Theater's lyrics, filling the void left by Kevin Moore, who left the band after the release of Awake. He is the second youngest person (after Neil Peart) to be inducted into the Modern Drummer's Hall of Fame (at 37 years of age).

Mike Portnoy website

See Modern Drummer Festival 2003 part 1
See Modern Drummer Festival 2003 part 2

Modern Drummer Festival 2003 part 2

2008-10-08T15:54:00.002+07:00

52.43 min
Modern Drummer Festival 2003 featured an almost unprecedented cross section of great drummers and percussionists.
Features Louis Santiago, Jr., winner of the Undiscovered Drummer Contest in the over 18 category, The Hip Pickles, The Nathaniel Townsley Trio, Matt Wilson and His Band, Steve Smith and Vital Information, Mike Portnoy and Yellow Matter Custard, and the Drumbassadors.

Matt Wilson is a singer/songwriter who is best known as the not overly serious lead of the band Trip Shakespeare. While Matt was an English concentrator at Harvard he met John Munson and Elaine Harris and formed the band Trip Shakespeare. After the breakup he was a drummer for a Minneapolis band called Polara. He also produced for bands like Steel Shank, Magnet, The Wonsers, and Velma.

In 1998 he released an album called "Burnt, White and Blue" on his own label Planet Maker Records.

He had an online project called "Main Output" at MattWilson.com (which is now owned by a different Matt Wilson) where he posted songs in progress (like "The Follidaze of Highland Heights", "Raking Service" and "Troublemaker") and funny photo journals but eventually abandoned it.

From 2001 to 2005 Matt Wilson and John Munson performed as The Flops. He had promoted his new band with John Munson as the Dark Nights with theDarkNights.com but the domain has expired. Matt Wilson's brother Dan Wilson later led the band Semisonic.

Modern Drummer Festival 2003 part 2
Matt Wilson

Track Artist/Band Title
13. Matt Wilson & His Band - Andrew's Ditty
14. Matt Wilson & His Band Question & Answer
15. Matt Wilson & His Band July Hymn
16. Matt Wilson & His Band Nibble
17. Steve Smith And Vital Information Snare Drum Sounds Demo
18. Steve Smith And Vital Information Drumset Improvisation
19. Steve Smith And Vital Information Rattletrap

See Modern Drummer Festival 2003 part 1
See Modern Drummer Festival 2003 part 3

Modern Drummer Festival 2003 part 1

2008-10-08T15:52:00.002+07:00

53.49 min
Modern Drummer Festival 2003 featured an almost unprecedented cross section of great drummers and percussionists.
Features Louis Santiago, Jr., winner of the Undiscovered Drummer Contest in the over 18 category, The Hip Pickles, The Nathaniel Townsley Trio, Matt Wilson and His Band, Steve Smith and Vital Information, Mike Portnoy and Yellow Matter Custard, and the Drumbassadors.

Modern Drummer Festival 2003 part 1

Track Artist/Band Title
1. Introduction: Opening Day 1
2. Ron Spagnardi Interview
3. Mike Orris 'Undiscovered Drummer': Under 18 Category Winner
4. Hip Pickles - Dancer
5. Hip Pickles - Futzin
6. Hip Pickles - Babu/Jaju Groove 2000
7. Hip Pickles - Chop Sticks
8. Hip Pickles - Rackem' Up
9. Hip Pickles - Samba Famba
10. Nathaniel Townsley - The Hat Thang
11. Nathaniel Townsley - Awesome God
12. Nathaniel Townsley - Big Idea

Modern Drummer Festival 2003 part 2
Modern Drummer Festival 2003 part 3

The Great Drummers Performing

2008-09-05T15:27:00.004+07:00

55 min
Gadd, Williams,Colaiuta, Dennard,Phillips, Aldridge.
Unreleased commercially unavailable footage from Zildjian day 1985 (except for Gadd 83) featuring drum solos
Performance clips by Steve Gadd and Ralph Macdonald, Simon Phillips, Tommy Aldridge, Vinnie Colaiuta, Kenwood Dennard, Tony Williams.

The Great Drummers Performing

When coming up with new patterns

2008-08-05T15:26:00.000+07:00

When coming up with new patterns, pick up a cheap microphone from the dollar store, and record yourself just messing around for however long - then, go back and listen to what you came up with. Save the patterns you like, but be sure to come back to them later - what you like one day can sound really horrible the next. Also, if you are bored of drumming for any amount of time (and even if you're not) - try playing in odd time signatures! It's an entire world that can be passed by if you just play boring metal in 4/4. - Philip Gordon

Walk to the beat of a different drummer

2008-07-11T15:29:00.001+07:00

Walk to the beat of a different drummer.
Be your own player. Be an "individual" drummer. Strive to develop your own distinct style on the drums that will make you unique. Do something different. Have a niche. This could be from mastering one particular technique to standing on your head while you're drumming ... just be different in some way.

Vinnie Colaiuta

2008-06-12T15:23:00.006+07:00

Vincent Colaiuta (born February 5, 1956) is a highly regarded drummer based in Los Angeles. Originally from Brownsville, Pennsylvania, he began playing drums as a child and received his first full drum kit from his parents at the age of 14.

After attending the Berklee College of Music in Boston for a year, Colaiuta relocated to Los Angeles and made a mediocre living playing with lounge bands. His break came in April 1978 at the age of 22, when he auditioned for Frank Zappa, an audition that involved performing the notoriously difficult piece entitled "The Black Page". The audition was successful and Colaiuta went on to work with Zappa as his principal drummer for studio and live performances. Colaiuta's performances on Zappa's albums Tinsel Town Rebellion, Joe's Garage and Shut Up 'n Play Yer Guitar are considered by many drummers to be among the most astounding ever recorded. Joe's Garage was named one

Read more
Vinnie Colaiuta website

Dave Weckl, Vinnie Colaiuta, Steve Gadd - Great drums solo

Videotape yourself playing drums

2008-04-01T09:32:00.000+07:00

Videotape yourself playing drums. You will be amazed at what you can learn from this. Everything from that stupid look on your face while your playing the drums, to the snare drum that's tilted at a 45 degree angle.

How to Purchase Drum Sets, Cymbals, and Accessories

2008-03-24T15:54:00.002+07:00

Buying a new drum set can be a bit intimidating. Especially if you have not been playing very long. With so many different brands on the market and so many options and opinions, it makes choosing a new drum set a bit
challenging.

My advice is to go to severel different music stores or drum shops and get as many opinions as you can from as many different drum sales reps as possible. While you are in the drum shops beat around on the different brands of drum sets that are displayed and listen for which ones are most
appealing to your ears.

Since different drum sets and drum manufacturers make their shells out of different types of wood, sounds will vary. Most entry-level drum kits are made of basswood or mahogany, which is cheaper wood that does not produce a high quality sound . Higher-end drums use more expensive wood such as birch or maple, which produce a more rich, more resonant tone, but also require a higher price tag.

There is a minor difficulty to overcome about the drum sets on display, and that is, most display drum sets are not muted, or not muted properly. So, you will have to bring some felt or something with you to the drum shop along with some tape assuming the drum store doesn't have anything you
can use (it happens).

Also, ask the drum rep if you can remove the front bass drum head so you can insert a pillow, blanket, or your coat in as a mute if there isn't a mute already in there.

When your shopping for new cymbals be sure to bring your own sticks with you into the drum shop. When your crashing the crashes, riding the rides, and splashing the splashes, you want to get a good feel for them as you will be more comfortable with the sticks you are used to drumming with.

A quick tip... be sure to write your name on your sticks or mark them somehow before you take them into the drum store. Also, inform the drum reps at the store upon entering that you are bringing in your own sticks. You don't want them to think you stole them when you leave.

Obviously, one of the first things you need to consider when contemplating purchasing a new drum set is your budget. Drums are available in a wide range of prices, but unlike most other instruments, you can buy drums one at a time and build your kit as your budget allows.

You can start with as little as a new snare drum for your old kit, and then some new cymbals, then on to some new hardware or drum accessories. All of which can be purchased for less on eBay. I know you will not be able to test anything on eBay before you purchase it, but that's why you do your homework first. Go shop around at your local drum store and then zero in on your purchases.

Thank you to Dan Brown

To better understand time signatures

2008-03-11T12:16:00.000+07:00

To better understand time signatures, visually think of dividing a pie into halves, quarters, eighths, etc. When it's in quarters, imagine putting a cutout of a quarter note on each slice and then slice that piece in two. You will then need to use two eighth notes for each and soon this will provide a better understanding of rhythmic values. This is also a great teaching method for your students.

Drums Throughout Humanity

2008-02-19T15:47:00.003+07:00

From the time when man was a savage, he learnt that by hitting an object sound could be generated. Drums are among the oldest musical instruments known. They have entertained and helped people over the ages. You may ask how helped? Well, the American Indians used drums as a means for communication. So did the Africans. Today, drums are used in all kinds of music starting from classical to extreme rock. Groups like Beatles, and now Linkin' Park all use drum sets in their music. Drums are a part of the group of instruments known as percussions. Where you need to strike to create sound.

Examining the structure of the drum, we can see a membrane stretched over a shell. This is known as the drumhead. By striking the drumhead with a stick or part of a human body, sound is generated. Shapes of shell can be tubular or round. Other shapes have been used as well. In some drums, 2 membranes are used on either side of a tube with a small hole in between. The shell over which the skin or membrane is stretched, is the sound chamber. It is responsible for the noise emanating from the drum.

Musical groups today, use drum kits. These drum kits contain a base drum, cymbals, tom-toms and a snare drum on a stand. The base drum is often played with a foot pedal. Today, a wide range of accessories is available for drum sets starting out from simple cymbals to complex electronic pads. In the 1980's, people assembled huge drum sets with many accessories. Today however, the sizes of drums have been reduced.

Towards the late 1970's, Yamaha and Roland started producing electronic drum sets. These are operated by pads and are different from the normal drums. These drums were a direct effect of the development of the synthesizers.

Drums have been used not only for music but also for communication purposes in the passed. The Africans used this instrument to send out messages between villages or call the people to a war. These African drums were hollowed out trees that had a great power to cover distances.

While buying a drum, one has to be careful to make a right choice. The material of the membrane has to be selected carefully and the service and repair for the instrument has to be assured. When you purchase a drum set, you don't buy it for a few years. This is a long term investment and care is needed.

Drums are not only used in music and communication but also in the army and in schools. They are used to lead the cheer leading team and for marching during solemn occasions. In the army, the troops are thought to obey the signals given by drums.

Over all, drums have played a key and important role in our history. People have associated with this instrument from a long time, as it is one of the oldest instruments around. The drum has seen dances, blood shed and death. It has seen war and peace. Indeed, it is an instrument in its own class with its own status.

By: Sandra Stammberger

Bill Bruford

2008-01-27T08:59:00.001+07:00

William Scott Bruford (born May 17, 1949 in Sevenoaks, Kent, England), better known as Bill Bruford, is an influential British drummer who is recognised for his forceful, highly precise, polyrhythmic style. He was the original drummer for the highly successful progressive rock group Yes, and has been a prominent figure in the art rock movement since the early 1970s. He has been in many other bands and collaborated on numerous projects, most famously King Crimson and his own fusion band Bruford.

He began playing the drums when he was thirteen, and was influenced by jazz drumming, which would manifest itself on early Yes albums and would remain an influence on his style throughout his career. He had success in the early seventies during his time with Yes playing on their first five albums including the LPs The Yes Album, Fragile, and Close to the Edge. He left Yes at the height of their success in 1972, returning briefly for the Union album which was released in 1991.

Picture from wikipedia

Read more

Bill Bruford website

See Bill Bruford Drum Solo Drum Technique On VDO Bar Above

Bill Bruford and the Beat - Part 1

Bill Bruford and the Beat - Part 2

Bill Bruford and the Beat - Part 3

Getting Your Double Bass Chops Together

2008-01-24T08:09:00.001+07:00

Reality check first the reality is that professional drummers, known for their proficiency with double bass drum playing spent years practicing like obsessed maniacs to develop their speed, endurance, and muscles. Unless you are a one-in-a-billion exception then you are not going to get that good in a few weeks. It's gonna take a lot of work.

First get your feet in position a few drummers may disagree, but I contend that the speed and power you are going for, is best achieved using the heel up technique. Although I have seen some double bass drum players use their legs for making the strokes, the more typical technique for fast playing involves the ankles. That's the technique I use, and therefore the one I will discuss.

Volume and Power

Now depending on which drummers we might use as an examples, you need to know that many of them actually get the volume via the sound system. Therefore, for the time being, I suggest that you focus on the playing the patterns and keeping them steady. Volume can be addressed later.

Equipment factors you need to make sure you set the height of your drum throne and the position of it (in relation to your feet on the bass drum pedals) to where your feet just hang naturally over the pedals. The idea is to get your legs into a position where your ankles can move freely in order to generate speed and control. Spend some time getting this position established because it is the basis of the balance you'll need for playing double bass drums.

The length of your beater stroke, the tension on your bass drum pedals, and the amount of rebound the beaters get off of your bass drum heads (because of the tightness or looseness of your bass drum head) are all very significant factors. You will have to experiment to find the right combination of those variables for you. Perhaps you will even need to make some trade offs to come up with a combination that sounds good and yet still feels good to you.

The physics of bass drum pedal speed

Imagine trying to play fast bass drum patterns with very long beater stroke lengths (the travel distance) plus loose spring tension on the pedals (the way the beater comes back to ready position) plus a very loose bass drum batter head (which has little rebound). That would take some absolutely phenomenal foot work. There are some minor adjustments would make it so much easier.

These adjustments will improve the efficiency of your pedal strokes. The length of the beater stroke has to be long enough to generate solid beater impact, but not necessarily from a ninety degree angle or "all the way" back. I'd start with about a forty-five degree angle stroke and then adjust it to whatever feels best to you. Somewhere is that general range is most likely going to be a good "feel" for you.

Next the pedal spring tension has to be tight enough to return the beater back very quickly to make the next stroke. You need to let the pedal help you. That's why a loose spring tension is just going to feel sluggish and will slow you down rather than helping you. The beater also has to bounce off of the batter head. Not sink into it. So if you are a drummer with a normal bass drum stroke that sinks the beater into the bass drum head (and holds it there) rather than one that lets it rebound off the head (much like a snare drum stroke), then you're going to have to change that style for fast double bass drum patterns. You'll never play thirty-second notes on your bass drums by sinking the beater into the head.

Exercises when you are not at the drum kit Louie Bellson was the first drummer to really bring double bass drum playing to popularity. I had the fortune to meet him, when he was here in Nashville visiting my friend Larrie Londin. We talked about double bass drums and he shared something that, at first, really surprised me. I'll share that here. He told me that one of things that helped him master the feel of playing double bass drums was his ability as a tap dancer. He said that his bass drum playing had a feel similar like he was tap dancing on the pedals. Well, I'm not a tap dancer, but I watched him do it. And it made a lot of sense to me. It was all in his fast moving ankles! Now I point this out, not to suggest that you take tap dance lessons, but to suggest that even when you are not at your drum kit that you can do some exercises that will develop your ankle muscles.

Exercises

You can do this by sitting on a stool or chair (perhaps with something in the seat that helps raise your heels a bit off of the floor-if needed) and, with heels up, start tapping out an eighth note pattern. Focus on keeping the tempo even. If you can't do it at the tempo you first attempt, then just slow the tempo down. Stay with that slower tempo until you can keep the eighth note pattern steady and even. Then speed it up a bit and master that. After all of these years of playing double bass drums, I still do this exercise daily.

Review of my tips

Get your pedals and bass drum heads adjusted for your best overall sound and feel. Get your throne height and position for the best balance. The speed and control is going to be coming from your ankles not from your legs. Remember, for fast playing, - the beater has to bounce off of the bass drum head quickly in order to get ready for the next stroke. Practice slow eight note patterns first. Master the slower tempo, and then move up to a little faster tempo. You are working on the ability to keep the pattern even and steady. If the strokes sound choppy or uneven, then you are not ready for a faster tempo yet. This is a building block endeavor for you. There is no point in trying to pound out blazing thirty-second note patterns until you can play steady eight notes evenly and effortlessly.

Do your feet exercises whenever possible to build up endurance and feel. Practice. Practice. Practice. Then practice some more.

Many times, nothing of value comes to us easily. But if playing double bass drums was easy and everybody could do it, then it wouldn't be a big deal would it? Stay committed and have fun.

Ken Sanders

Think twice before cleaning those cymbals

2008-01-21T07:49:00.000+07:00

Snare Drum Buying Guide

2008-01-16T08:03:00.001+07:00

The snare drum is the central instrument within the drum set. There are essentially two types of snare drums on the market: wooden-shelled drums and chrome-shelled drums. In rare cases, you may come across plastic or composite-shelled drums, too. A common starter snare drum a chrome 5 1/2" x 14" eight-lug drum.

The snare drum contains:
A shell or circular body. A top "batter" head and a bottom ultra-thin clear head. Chrome hoops (rims) that fasten the heads to the shell. Tension rods that screw into lug casings, these are used to tighten the rim onto the shell. Snare wires. A throw-off apparatus.

Whatever drum you buy make certain that the snare (thin metal strings on the bottom of the drum) are intact and that the throw-off lever on the side of the drum works properly. The throw-off is a chrome apparatus found on the side or the shell of the snare drum. It contains a lever that snaps the snare wires up against the bottom drumhead or releases them so that they hang about 1/8" below the head. When the throw-off or strainer is in the up position, you will hear the buzz of the snare wires. When the throw-off is in the sideways position, the drum will sound similar to a high-pitched tom-tom.

Tom-toms are similar to snare drums in that they have two heads fastened to a shell. They do not contain snare wires though. They also differ from the snare drum in their function. When checking the snare strainer, make sure that you can turn the snares on and off without too much effort. Also, make sure that the snares tighten and release quietly. If you do not get this on-off effect at all, it may simply mean that the snare wires are too loose. All quality snare drums have an adjustment knob that is part of the throw-off apparatus. If the snare is not working properly, try tightening this knob. You should feel the tension increase depending on the direction you turn it. If you turn the knob and it has no effect on the sound of the drum, chances are the apparatus is faulty. Don't buy this drum.

Finally-and this goes for any drum-check to see if the drum has any cracks in the shell and make sure that the rims or hoops that fasten the head to the shell are not bent or dented. Also, make sure that none of the tension rods (screws) are missing, and check that none of the lugs(tension rod casings) are stripped. Don't worry about heads, because these are dispensable. Often the head that comes with your purchase needs replacing anyway. Once upon a time, drumheads were made from calf hides (skin). However, the problem with skins was that they were very difficult to keep in tune due to fluctuations in the weather. They were also not very durable. Now days, we use plastic or Mylar heads on our drums and the most popular head manufacturer is Remo, although Evans and Aquarian make fine heads, too. On the bottom of your snare drum, you must use an ultra-thin clear head. Anything thicker will choke the snare wires and they will not vibrate. Also, you should use only a single-ply "batter" head on the top of your snare drum. The batter head is a rough, sand papery-surfaced head that is designed to give texture to brush strokes. If the head were smooth, brush-ing the head would have little effect. The batter head is also single-ply to allow for a crisper tone and more sustain.

The white Remo Ambassador Batter is the most common of its kind. You may use the Ambassador Batter heads on all of your drums. However, a heavier, double-ply pinstripe head is very popular with many drummers because of its durability and rounder tone on tom-toms. The pinstripe head rings less, and therefore has fewer overtones. Whatever you do, definitely use the pinstripe head for your bass drum, as this will give you the necessary punch and durability you need. You will need to change your top or "batter" snare head every three to six months depending on your degree of activity. In most cases, you don't need to replace the bottom tom-tom heads, front bass drumhead, and bottom snare head with high-quality heads since you will never strike these heads. Whatever heads come from the factory (or the person who had the drums before you) are probably good enough as long as there are no rips or holes in them.

By Eric Stark

Simon Phillips

2008-01-12T07:18:00.001+07:00

Simon Phillips (born February 6, 1957, in London, England) is a prolific English jazz and rock drummer.

Style

Phillips' trademark is his precise, creative and very dramatic style. His fills often begin earlier than is expected, often beginning on the "2-and" and continuing to build until "1" of the next bar. His use of metric modulation is notable, and he often uses it to build tension in sections of songs with repeated chord progressions. He often uses double bass drums in the context of a fill.

Phillips has been an endorser of Tama drums for many years. His carefully tuned and dynamic drum sound is highly identifiable, and he uses large drums and incorporates octobans and a gong drum in his kit.

Noted for his versatility, Phillips plays diverse styles, including rock, fusion, metal, prog, and jazz. He also plays open-handed, meaning that he plays the hi-hat with his left hand and the snare with the right, not crossing his hands. The ride cymbal is also played left instead of right. However, when playing jazz music, he switches to playing the traditional method with the hi-hat and ride.

Picture from drummerworld.com

Read more1

Read more2( see VDO drum solo & audio )

Simon Phillips website

See Simon Phillips drum solo drum technique on VDO bar above

Drum Lesson from Simon Phillips

Simon Phillips drum solo

Study a melodic instrument

2008-01-09T07:44:00.000+07:00

Study a melodic instrument (not just drumset). This will give you a valuable understanding of harmony, chord structure and overall music theory. You can then be more involved in the arranging of your band's songs. You can also write your own drum charts more efficiently.

Tuning Your Drums

2008-01-07T08:22:00.001+07:00

If you do not yet own a drum set, just keep practicing the way you have been. You will appreciate this lesson a little more when you finally get your drums. This lesson is for those students who wish to improve their drumset tones.

I contend that even the cheapest drums may be tuned to your personal satisfaction. The secret is in knowing how to pull the sounds that you've imagined, from each of your drums.

When tuning a drumset, you must initially imagine the tones you are wanting to hear, then you must discover how to tweak those exact tones from each drum.

I have assembled the following pointers to help you do just that.

TENSION SCREWS AND LUGS:

Look closely at your snare drum and try to decide exactly what factors most effect the tonal quality. Notice the 'square headed screws' around the top and bottom rims of the Drum. We call these ?tension rods' or 'tension screws'. They screw into the lugs, that are usually mounted permanently on the sides of the 'shell' of the drum. We may tighten or loosen these screws with a tool called a 'drum key. A drum key can be purchased at any music store for a dollar or two. Adjustments to the tension screws with a drum key will effect the tension on the Drumhead, which will raise or lower the pitch (tone) of the drum.

A tight Drumhead will produce more bounce for the Drumsticks and a higher pitch, whereas less tension on the head will produce the opposite. A little experimentation will help you decide which you personally prefer.

Your PERSONAL PREFERENCES are paramount, here, since you'll be the person actually playing the drum(s). No one should ever try to dictate to you, the tones YOU are preferring to hear. It's a discovery you'll need to make for yourself. The CORRECT tuning of your drums will only be correct, if YOU agree, and it is never correct until YOU approve of the tones coming from the drum(s).

It's virtually impossible to PURCHASE the tones you are wanting to hear. You'll need to learn to 'tweak' your preferred tones from even the most expensive drums. Price has very little to do with that.

Be cautious when adjusting the lug screws around any drumhead so as not to warp either the drumhead or the rim. Do not over-tighten one screw while leaving another very loose. It is best to tighten the lug screws in a diagonal crisscross pattern around the head. Cautiously turn each tension screw an equal number of turns until you have achieved the desired tension.

THE SNARES:

Now turn your snare drum over and look at the strands of wire underneath. We call these wires, ?snares'. The ?snares' produce the ?snap' sound and give the ?snare' drum its name. Without these ?snares' your drum will sound like a tom tom.

THE STRAINER:

The snare wires are usually connected on one side of the drum with a screw apparatus and a flip lever. The flip lever on most drums is usually designed to release the snares quickly, so that a 'tom effect' can be a tonal option.

The screw apparatus, called the ?STRAINER', may be tightened or loosened to place the desired amount of tension on the snares. The degree of tension on the snares will increase and decrease the amount of 'snap' or 'rattle' coming from the snare drum. Again, . . . You must decide just the right amount of 'snap' or 'rattle' you want to hear. This will require some experimentation before you will discover the exact tone you personally prefer.

MUFFLING AND MUFFLERS:

After tuning both heads and adjusting the Strainer you may find that your Snare Drum (or any drum) may still emit an undesirable 'ring' or 'overtone' when struck a glancing blow. Too much vibration in the heads can often cause this overtone. Some type of muffling device may be necessary, and this is often where most students experience problems with their tone. If your drum(s) seem to 'RING' too much, you'll probably need to muffle the drum heads . . . which can be done a number of ways.

There are MANY ways to muffle the heads of a drum. Some drummers use a strip of duct tape, and others may place a thin strip of felt or linen under the head(s), between the shell edge, and the head itself.

Those tips, (above) are the economical ways. The tips below may cost a few pennies.

In recent years a number of spinoff-companies have emerged to address this 'ringing' and 'muffling' dilemma. One of the best solutions to drum-muffling is a 'thin mylar oval', that lays flat and directly over the head of any drum. They are known by names such as, O-Rings or Sound Ovals.

If your drum(s) seem to emit too much 'ringing' and too many overtones, it might be wise to visit your local music store and ask a knowledgeable salesman to demonstrate the effectiveness of such a muffling device.

To 'hear' the dramatic differences in tone . . . may be enough to make you want to try them on your own drums. O-Rings are offered in a number of sizes, and varieties. Some are adhesive backed and will stick to your drumhead, while others simply lay on the drum. Still others, may be made of a felt-like material as well. Experiment with the many varieties until you find the type that works best for you, personally. You'll probably want to use them all the way around your drumset.

Muffling perfection is the KEY ingredient to achieving the exactness of tone your ear is wanting to hear.

Big bucks aren't the answer to tuning problems. Perfect tone is a matter of simple common-sense. The most expensive drum set in the World will sound terrible, as they come out of the box. They too will need to be 'tweaked' to your satisfaction, or you'll hate them!

OTHER MUFFLER TYPES:
A INTERNAL DRUM MUFFLER, is simply a screw device that places a felt pad against the batter head inside the drum. The muffler is usually equipped with a flip lever or turn screw that allows for easy external adjustment. In previous years, most snare drums came from the factory with a muffler installed, but that practice has recently stopped for some unknown reason. Almost any music store will install one for twenty or thirty dollars (per drum). Again it is up to you to decide whether you like your drum(s) with, or without a muffler.

The INTERNAL MUFFLER was the STANDARD muffling device for many years, and as far as I'm concerned . . . it was, and still is, the best method of muffling. I don't know why the major drum manufacturers have stopped installing these devices at the factory, but I assume it has a LOT to do with profit-margins . . . and greed.

DRUM HEADS:

If you are still dissatisfied with your tone at this point, you should look at the batter head (or top head.) Batter heads are manufactured at varied thicknesses or weights ranging from thin to thick.

Thin heads are designed for very light, snappy, crisp tonal qualities, but they have a tendency to break under heavy use.

Thick drumheads will withstand a great deal of punishment, but some tonal quality will be sacrificed. Thicker heads tend to 'contain' much of the tone 'inside the drum' in a way that keeps those tones from being released and perceived by our ears. Extremely thick heads have a tendency to sound flat and dead, in my opinion.

Again, a trip to your local music store may be wise, here. Familiarize yourself with all the various types, styles and brands of drumheads and experiment with many of them. Determine your own preferences. That's really the only way to be sure of what you personally prefer. The many choices are yours to make. We are all different. That's WHY there are so many varied choices.

Personally, I prefer Remo heads. I prefer a Coated-Ambassador on the snare, and Pinstripes (see below) around the toms, for 'live' gigs.

I like Hydraulic heads around the toms, if I'm doing work in the studios. Hydraulic heads produce a great tone when micked, but they don't seem to project as well as pinstripes, when played acoustically in large night clubs. (That's just my opinion.)

Tuning the Toms
Now that you have your snare drum tuned to perfection, it's time to focus on the remainder of the set.

Begin with the smallest tom . . . it will often be situated directly next to, and a little above, (or even flush with) the Snare. This should be your highest pitched tom since it is the smallest. The larger toms should be graduated in both tone and size in clockwise fashion, around you.

When tuning your toms, try first to imagine ALL the tones you'll want to hear from the entire set, then seek to achieve or pull those tones from each drum.

Remember that tight heads produce higher tones and loose heads produce lower tones.

You may wish to experiment with varied combinations of tight top heads, loose bottoms for one effect, or vice versa for the opposite.

Some drummers choose to eliminate the bottom tom heads completely. Search for the sound that you like, personally.

Drum mufflers, (O-Rings, etc.) will help eliminate any undesirable ?ring' or 'overtones' in your toms. Many high tech solutions to tom tone have appeared on the market in recent years. Experiment with some of the following options:

TOM TOM HEADS:
* 1. Black Dot: This is a tom head designed with a double thickness of head material in the center of the drum. The double thickness tends to eliminate some 'overtones' and enhance the life of the head.
* 2. Pinstripe: Pinstripe heads have a double thickness of head material around the outer perimeter of the drum where most overtones occur. I prefer this type of head.
* 3. Hydraulic: Hydraulic heads involve the sandwiching of an oily substance between two thicknesses of head material. Many drummers swear by them. The overtones are greatly reduced and the heads are very durable. My opinion is that they do not project very well in a large room. The tone tends to fall flat a short distance from the drum. Microphones can help solve that problem though.

BASS DRUM
If you like your bass drum loud and ringing, that is easy! Simply tighten both heads to maximum, and do not try to muffle them. YUK!!!!!

We may get a solid "thud" effect in the following ways:

* 1. Place a 6" x 26" piece of cloth (felt is suggested) between the drumhead and shell of your bass all the way across the drum.

You may even choose to cover the entire circular area with thin cloth.

Remove the drum rim and head, place the cloth over the hole, then replace the head and rim and pull them to the desired tension. Finally, trim away the ragged edges of cloth.

* 2. Many drummers prefer to eliminate the front head and rim entirely and place different articles of padding inside the Drum (pillows, foam rubber, roadkill, etc.) until the desired muffle has been achieved. (I'm just kidding about the roadkill.)

* 3. Pro-drummers may often cut a small (10" to 12") hole in the center of the outside bass drum head, (facing the crowd.) This is good, because it allows the drummer to adjust the padding inside the drums as needed, during the gig. Not all rooms are created 'acoustically' equal.

* 4. It's common to see ALL of the above muffling techniques used in various combinations, along with O-rings and other muffling devices. Muffling is a major factor towards achieving, personally preferred tone. So, don't be afraid to experiment!

Thank you to Bill Powelson

Joey Jordison

2008-01-04T07:15:00.001+07:00

Nathan Jonas "Joey" Jordison is an American rock/nu metal musician. He is best known for his role as the drummer for the band Slipknot. He is also well known as the guitarist for Murderdolls, a glam metal/horror punk band which he founded in the 2000s, that is currently on hiatus due to the Murderdolls' members' main projects. In 2006, he was the drummer for the industrial metal band Ministry. For the most of 2007, Jordison took over the drumming duties for the nu-metal band Korn (he is seen in their video for "Evolution") before going back to the studio to work on Slipknot's fourth studio album. He also did the drumming not only for Korn but as well as Metallica at the Download Festival in 2004.

Picture from drummerworld.com

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Joey Jordison website

Slipknot website

See Joey Jordison drum tip drum technique on VDO bar above

Slipknot - Joey Jordison Drum Solo

Singles and Doubles

2008-01-01T07:53:00.000+07:00

Singles and Doubles. Drum rudiments are made up of doubles and singles. Learn to play these as cleanly, evenly, and correctly as possible. Do the same with doubles. They make up all the rest! Master this on the drums and you'll find everything else comes a lot easier.

Drumming and Singing

2007-12-31T08:44:00.001+07:00

Isn't Easy at First, But It's Worth Working On Although I take it for granted now, I sing both lead and backing vocals regularly while playing the drum kit. I have a tenor range that enables me to sing many types of harmonies. This takes the strain off of the other singers in the band, and is appreciated. It also gives you a chance to shine, by occasionally lead singing original or cover tunes. There are a variety of methods that I have seen drummers use to become proficient at backing and/or lead vocals. But no matter what, you must have been endowed with the ability to, at least, hold a tune. If you do, then you CAN learn to sing and play drums - even while playing odd times and polyrhythms (I really hate that word "odd" for 5, 7, 9 beat per measure music - but that's common western terminology).
My approach to develop my lead singing and playing ability:

1. I went to a classical vocal instructor and had her evaluate my voice.
2. I took classical vocal lessons to learn proper posture, breathing, etc. This helped me learn proper sitting posture, while improving my vocal range and projection (I actually brought my drum throne to each lesson).
3. After absorbing a good deal of vocal training, I began to applying my voice in real situations. In doing this, I found out right away that it was best to get the drum part down first so you don't have to "think" too much when you begin layering the vocal part.
4. After learning both parts separately, I began to practice both the drumming and singing parts together. I started by concentrating on backing vocals first, and I also worked on a song in sections. I repeated a section until I felt comfortable. Then I would move on to the next section... and so on.

Eventually, I found that my mind became more and more used to doing these two things at once. As the years went by, I also found that it got easier and easier to pick up harmony parts and sing them "on the fly". It was much like the process of developing your chops on the kit. Putting it simply; if you have a decent voice, and you haven't bothered to learn to play and sing, then you're really limiting your playing opportunities, and wasting some of your talent. Singing drummers are NOT the norm. And having this skill could the difference between landing a gig and not! I strongly recommend that you take some time to try and learn this skill, so you can use it to your advantage (and for the fun of it). You CAN do it!
Thank you to Steve Dow

Your Drumming is Your Voice

2007-12-28T07:18:00.001+07:00

By: Daniel N Brown
After having played music with many different musicians on many different skill levels I have noticed something interesting among most of them. Each one will usually play his or her instrument according to his or her respective personality.

When this concept comes to drumming it is really noticeable.

I've noticed that drummers who are a relaxed type often play relaxed. A drummer who is a more bold person usually plays the same way... bold. A drummer who lives his or her life a little sloppy and wreckless will often play the same way. Likewise, a drummer who is a very organized individual will fairly play rather consistantly. All this is okay to an extent. But, we just can't let our drumming be subject to our personality, feelings, or mood at any given moment.

Our instrument, the drums, are our expression in the band. It's our voice. And, many times, we must drum in a manner that does not line up with our personality, feelings, or mood.

Being an outstanding drummer requires becomming a bit of an actor. What I mean by that is, sometimes we have to play drums a certain way despite our true personality, or how we may feel at any given moment. That's what a good actor does, he temporarliy forgets who he is and becomes someone else for a time so that he can pull off what he needs to pull off in order to get the job done.

As you know, sometimes we have to drum a little harder than we may feel like drumming. And then at other times we may have to drum a bit softer when what we really want to do is rock out.

In order to be an outstanding drummer we have to be able to put out what is required of us at any given moment. For example, sometimes a certain song needs to convey a certain message, feeling, or mood. But, your particular mood at the time does not jive with it at all.

If we want the song do what it's supposed to do, we can't expect the song to submit to how we feel right then. We have to submit to the song and forget about ourselves by becoming a part of the song.

The bottom line is this... don't play your drums according to your personality. Play your drums according to each individual song's personality. Only then will your songs truly come to life.

Bill Stewart

2007-12-24T08:52:00.001+07:00

William Harris "Bill" Stewart (born October 18, 1966, Des Moines, Iowa) is an American jazz drummer. Stewart is a versatile player who has performed with a broad array of musicians, from Maceo Parker to Jim Hall. He is also an active composer, whose distinctive tunes, which might be categorized as "postmodern" jazz tunes, appear on his, and others', records.

Musical style

As a drummer, Bill Stewart's playing is distinguished by its melodic focus, and its polyrhythmic, or layered, character. To say his playing is "melodic" means there is a sense in which one can "hum along" to his solos, as there is a clear sense of melodic construction. His improvisations favor the development and layering of motivic ideas over the raw generation of excitement or display of technical prowess. Stewart has great touch, or dynamic precision, so that his ideas are articulated with a pleasing exactness and clarity. He has also achieved a very high degree of independence of his limbs, so that not only the ride and the snare/toms, but also the bass drum and hi-hat, are free to participate as melodic "first-class citizens." His drumming bears the influence of various melodic drummers who preceded him, including Max Roach, Art Blakey, Roy Haynes, Tony Williams, Jack DeJohnette and Al Foster.

As a composer, Bill Stewart is forward-looking, and seems not to want to repeat what others have already accomplished. In other words, his tunes have a bit of an avant-garde flavor. The melodies, harmonies, phrase lengths, and measure lengths are often altered so as not to conform too closely to traditional jazz language. Some of his tunes (such as "Mayberry") also feature a built-in "free blowing" section, surrounded by a composed "head" (in the case of "Mayberry", a parody of the theme song of the Andy Griffith Show.) The concept of "Mayberry" may have been borrowed from Stewart's long-time collaborator John Scofield, who has written many tunes of the same general shape.

Picture from drummerworld.com

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Bill Stewart - Awesone Drum