I have been asked what we do at Gregory Tech Drum Center. There are a few things going on over here: High-tech drum lessons — two pro drum sets side-by-side, video cameras, flat screen monitors, headphones — all recorded live into Final Cut Pro...
Read moreA Child’s Mind
Every so often I meet someone who reminds me of why I do what I do — play music and teach drum set! This happened recently while I was at a jam, listening to music and talking with someone who was so excited that it almost hurt. This guitarist...
Read moreKeep Listening to Music
I really love music, and I really love listening to music. Not only do I enjoy putting on a favorite recording (or discovering a new one), I particularly enjoy hearing a live band doing their thing. You don’t have to be famous or on some...
Read moreThe 10 Best Drummers and Other Useless Lists
I recently read an article about the ten most overrated drummers. The author and the link will not be published here for the following reasons: I prefer to look for traits in drummers, musicians, and people (in general) that draw me to them. What...
Read moreImportant Traits of a Good Drummer
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...
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...
Read moreTake Time to Breathe
As drummers, it can be far too easy to play without considering our breathing. Contrary to a saxophone or trumpet, e.g., the drum set does not require that we use our lungs to produce the sound. I have listened to many recordings and live...
Read moreBeing Thankful
I had a nice Thanksgiving with family this year and am reminded of how truly lucky I am to be surrounded by loving people. I am truly fortunate and I try not to forget that. On Black Friday, I was at The St. Julien Hotel and Spa in Boulder...
Read moreStay Humble
I saw Antonio Sanchez & Migration last weekend at Dazzle in Denver. Dazzle is a nice place and it was a fantastic setting in which to see this band. Daniel Feinberg of kuvo posted this on his Facebook page: Unforgettable, Mind-Expanding...
Read moreLive Radio Show
Here’s a quick blurb and a link to a radio show I did with The Anthony Russo Band on Denver’s kgnu radio station recently. Curtis Hawkins is on bass. Anthony and the band start around 2:05:22. Enjoy!
Read moreGetting Lost in the Music
Getting lost in the music has at least two connotations. The first one is pretty great and the second one is not as nice. There have been times when I have been so into the music, that I transcend that moment in time. It can seem as if the drums...
Read moreKeep It Swingin’
I’ve been listening to some great players and their take on the Brazilian Bossa Nova. Besides the Brazilian drummers, the cats I really like best are the players that keep it swingin’ while playing “straight” 8th notes...
Read more