Stage One Drumming

Drumming is about having fun. Having fun is about playing well. Playing well is about directed instruction. Playing music with others is about time and groove, period. The band wants to hear our pulse, good vibes, and steadiness. This happens when we work on our "stage one drumming"

In short:

1. Our posture at the kit
2. Knowing the appropriate grips: French, German, American, Traditional
3. Control and knowledge of drum strokes: Full, tap, whip, finger and more
4. Practicing our rudiments: cornerstone of every great drummer and determined aspirant.
5. Understanding pocket: laying down a groove that fills the dance floor or in the case of jazz, has fingers snapping.
6. Hand accents: a key to groove, feel and drumming finesse.
7. Our Time development: The great Terry Clarke and Greg Hutchison both said, no time, no gigs. Or in our cases, basement banishment.  It can be learned. 
8. Learning how and what to practice to make the most of our precious practice time. Learning to practice well will help us maintain the enthusiasm we initially brought to the project. Drummer Benny Greb believes, and so do I, that seeing and hearing progress is the key to staying motivated. 
9. Pick tunes or beats to play that we like that are also within our capabilities. 
   

Chat soon, 

David