Tagged With: Mark Letalien
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
Another West African Rhythm for Drum Set Lesson
I finally got around to putting together a quick lesson looking at a drum set rhythm transcribed by Royal Hartigan, who has studied the rhythms of the the West African people for years. Great Stuff! Enjoy…
Another Free Drum Lesson Video for You!
Hello Guys and Gals, I finally had a chance to throw another drum lesson together for you. It is quick and raw, but hopefully it will give you some ideas when it comes to practice time. Enjoy!
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
It’s a Matter of Taste
One of the things I try to do (but don’t do often enough) is videotape myself when playing gigs. I think there are a few reasons I don’t do this more often; one, it is another thing to think of besides the gear and all the other stuff that comes along with a gig, and … Continue reading
Lessons and Direction
I have recently decided to restart piano lessons; it has been a long time since I studied with anyone and am looking forward to the process. I consider myself a pretty disciplined individual in terms of practice and am always (or almost always) enthusiastic about growing as a musician, buy in the case of the … 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 Book from a Great Drummer
If you haven’t had a chance to pick up drumming legend Bill Bruford’s autobiography, I highly recommend that you do. I have read several musician’s autobiographies and have to say this is one of, if not the best, I have read. It can be purchased through Amazon here. Great job, Bill!
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