Thoughts
Hey, Flatfoot!!
One of the things that I am constantly changing (i.e. struggling with) is my foot technique; specifically, the times when it is appropriate to use the heel down technique, and when to use the heel up technique. For me, I have been by-and-large a heel up player, but within slower tempo and certain feels I … Continue reading
The Importance of Consistant Practice
In my last post I mentioned that I was starting piano lessons (again). One of the things that I have tried to do no matter how tired I have been is to practice for at least 45 mins a night. I can tell you by doing so, I have noticed a difference in my playing … Continue reading
Taking the Time
I recently had a conversation with a student that told me over the last week or so they had had no time to practice because they had been to busy. When asked what he was so busy doing, my student gave me the typical responses; homework, sporting events, etc. I then asked my student if … Continue reading
The Importance of Being Musically Diverse
Yesterday I had a rehearsal which again reminded me the importance of being able to play a variety of styles convincingly. The rehearsal was for an upcoming gig where three different songwriters would be featured; each writer has a distinctly different style in their song choices. There were songs that leaned more towards the contemporary … Continue reading
A Great Article about Creativity
As musicians, we can often get in the rut of emulating vs creating. While it is important to emulate those that have come before, it is also important to gain our own unique voice. Here is a great article I found concerning the jazz greats and creativity. Enjoy!
So why Do YOU Do It?
I recently had a new student come to take a lesson at my home studio; she had traveled a long distance to take the lesson, so we scheduled several hours for the day. I always enjoy teaching students like that, b/c I know they are serious about drumming and want to learn as much as … Continue reading
Keeping it SIMPLE!
Hello and welcome to another post; it’s been a while since I have updated the site so thanks for checking in! One of the things that I have been working on lately is the concept of playing things as simply as possible and still making them work. In listening back to recordings of me while … Continue reading
Focusing on “The Essentials”
Hello and welcome to another post. I hope everyone had a relaxing Christmas and enjoyed themselves with the ones they love. I know anyone that has read any of my posts for any length of time knows I am a big fan of Tommy Igoe and his educational materials. I personally own both of the … Continue reading
Record Thyself!
In this post I wanted to discuss the importance of recording yourself, either by audio or video, and using that information to help adjust and improve your playing in any given situation. I learned this first hand over last weekend’s gigs. The shows were both identical in that we were going to be performing the … Continue reading
Purchasing a Drumset for the Beginning Student: A Buyer’s Guide (Part Two)
There have been many occasions throughout my years of teaching where students and parents of students have asked for advice when it comes to purchasing a new drum set. Fortunately, the quality of entry-level drums have increased tremendously since I began playing, and for a somewhat reasonable amount a quality kit can be purchased. Because … Continue reading