Many drummers refer to themselves as a “groove drummer.” That’s fine. However, I recently heard Vinnie Colaiuta reply something along the lines of, “well, I hope so!” We all need to groove. I want to be dancing...
Read moreWayne Shorter
We lost Wayne Shorter today. If you are familiar with his music, then you know how important he was and will be to future generations. Seek him out and listen. Pure beauty.
Read more1908 Knabe Grand Piano
We now have an amazing grand piano in the studio. It has settled in after being moved, and will require just a bit more TLC. However, even right now it sounds great! I am very excited to start using it for the Jazz Workshops, and on recordings. I...
Read moreFall Jazz Workshop 2021
Man! It’s been a while since I have been able to run one of my jazz workshops. Well, as of last night that changed. I have a pianist, guitarist, bassist, female vocalist, with me on the drums for now. Last night we were able to get through...
Read moreMarcus Gilmore
From 1991-2000, I was fortunate to teach part-time at the Juilliard School in NYC with the Music Advancement Program. MAP is dedicated to bringing music to “intermediate and advanced music students from New York City’s five boroughs and the...
Read moreDesert Island Drum Book
Over the years, I have acquired quite a few drum books. The majority of them are very useful, well written, and I refer to them time and again. However, if I had to pick one book for my “Desert Island Drum Book” it would be John...
Read moreCongratulations to Steve Gadd!
My heartfelt congratulations to Steve Gadd and his band. The Steve Gadd Band just won the Grammy for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album for Way Back Home: Live From Rochester, NY. To many of us (me included), Gadd is the ultimate pro — he can...
Read moreMusical Ego and Being Humble
Earlier this week, I was humbled (once again) hearing some musicians at a jam session. Philadelphia is still relatively new to me, so I am still exploring the various places to hear music. I really enjoy hearing great music — regardless of the...
Read moreComfort Zone
The bass player in one of my jazz workshops was having some problems not too long ago. As I was coaching him on some ideas to help deal with some of these issues, he came up with a brilliant phrase: There is no growth in the comfort zone and no...
Read moreJazz Workshop!
I am pleased to announce that Gregory Tech Drum Center is now offering 10-week jazz workshops in Yardley, PA. Learn to play jazz while having fun. Guitar, Bass, Piano (keyboards), Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, Vocals — all instrumentalists and...
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