Many drummers are familiar with Tommy Igoe these days. (If not, please google him.) Tommy’s father was Sonny Igoe — maybe not a household name, but very influential back in the day. Tommy has credited his father’s method of teaching as the basis...
Read moreNational Jazz Appreciation Month
Well, I’m a little late on this one — April is National Jazz Appreciation Month (a/k/a “JAM”). Please search out jazz in your area, and support live music. I was “late” to jazz — I didn’t hear it growing up, and found John Coltrane and Miles...
Read moreDrumming Influences and More
I have had many drummers whom have influenced me over the years. One, in particular, is Tony Williams. I’ve talked about Tony before, however, today I want to specifically talk about his recording entitled, “Believe It,” and the guitarist on that...
Read moreGregory Tech Drum Center: How Did It Start?
Over the years, I have been asked how I came up with the idea of having this high-tech drum teaching studio — microphones on the drums, video cameras, flat screen monitors and professional drum sets. Here is a brief synopsis of what occurred...
Read moreKeep Playing
I just listened to a radio interview in which Branford Marsalis was telling a story where Buddy Tate heard Branford play a jazz ballad, and then asked him who he was listening to. Branford responded that he was listening to Ben Webster, but that...
Read moreThe Jazz Ride Cymbal Pattern
I don’t seem to tire of working on my jazz ride cymbal pattern. One really fun thing about it — there are so many phrasing variations. E.g., Tony Williams’ ride cymbal sounds so unique, and very different than so many other great players, such as...
Read moreYardley Drum Lessons and My LLC
Gregory Tech Drum Center LLC is now a reality in Yardley, PA — legal and everything! Please give me a shout if you’re looking for drum lessons in Yardley. I really love what I do. The temporary studio is working out nicely. However, I really am...
Read moreClyde Stubblefield – THE Funky Drummer
To say that my approach to the drums changed when I heard Clyde Stubblefield with James Brown would be an understatement. Most likely, I Got You (I Feel Good) was the first tune I heard (like many of us). Later, Get Up (Sex Machine) and Cold...
Read moreDrum Stick Selection
Over the years, I have used many different makes and models of drum sticks. It’s been a fun process, and I now enjoy looking back at this. At one point, I used round tipped sticks with nylon tips for heavier rock gigs that I was doing. Then, I...
Read moreStay Active
It’s been my experience that if I stay active, then I have a much healthier attitude and outlook. This can take on many different forms from being physically active (working out at a gym, getting out in nature, etc.), being socially active (going...
Read moreOpen For Business
Gregory Tech Drum Center has officially opened for business in Yardley, PA. We are offering drum instruction in our temporary studio while the main studio space is undergoing construction. You will still play on real drums, have fun while...
Read moreHappy Holidays
Happy Holidays to everyone! It’s not always an easy time of year for many of us, however, my hope is that we can all spend some time around people we love and feel that connection. Peace and Love to all.
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