Classification of an Advanced Drummer

[zaragemca]

This is a subject which I brought to other forum and now to the brothers of this forum,this doesn't mean that musicians have to do it,if you are making money and happy with whatever you play(there is nothing wrong with that),I did create this for my percussion instruction to drummers,but general percussionists could find subjects of their interest...1.-Concept of Timing...2.-Absolute Control of Speed...3.-Grooving Fill-In and Solos...4.-Mastering of Dynamics...5.-Coordination between the upper limbs(arms)...6.- Coordination between the upper and lower limbs(arms and feet)...7.-Mastering of the structure of music which could be playing...8.-Interaction between the percussionist/drummer and the rest of the Band...9.-Level of Independency in the extremities(arms,feet,etc.)...10.-Coordination between percussionists...11.-Use of the Cymbals...12.-Playing on Combine Time Signature,like, 5/4-6/8-7/4,etc.If somebody want a clarification of a subject,or term, it is welcome.



Edited By zaragemca on 1081265547

[congastu]

Hi Zaragemca
I was just posting to say how pleased I was that you included interaction between drummer and other musicians, as this is something easily overlooked when we train in isolation. I think its really important to identify where you fit in so that you dont interfere with the parts of others and can moreover play in a way that actually enhances what others are doing.
I think this takes a certain humility that can also reflect in how you interact outside music. I find it really sad to see guys who are really good but cant get jobs because somehow the attitude isnt right. Learning how to be on the road and share a lot of personal space with others is an art in itself and theres not a lot of room for arrogance: we have to look out for each other. Personally, I make lots of cups of tea!!

[zaragemca]

Yes the right quemistry,and (team playing) approach,are the bases which save the group when going through difficulties(which are going to be there sooner or later).



Edited By zaragemca on 1081266001

[congastu]

My brother and mentor, Chris Preston, [check out Supernumeri on Ninja Tune Records] once told me that the one thing that always stuck with him from his music degree was being told that the hardest art was creating or adding to that "chemistry" in any project, so that you are not merely playing for the sake of playing.
In every project we work together on, Chris always brings that vibe- gentleness marked by quiet strength, a good ear, and the ability to be honest when its needed. That transposes into his playing, where he has the ability to find the one thing [even if its as simple as a shaker, bell or clave in the right place] to elevate the music to another level, and when he solos, its part of the song rather than feeling like the exposition of rudiments.
On a similar note, I saw Giovanni playing with Alex Acuna and Don Alias a few years ago and the one thing Don had to say about Hidalgo [apart from his obvious skill] was the force of personality he brought to the group- always happy, positive and a unifying presence rather than being destructive.
Anyway, thats enough rambling for now
peace and love, Stu

[Simon B]

Hi Stu;

You're based in Manchester aren't you? Two percussionists I have seen perform in Sheffield who I understand to be Manchester-based are Chris Crookes and Billy Booth - perhaps you know them? Billy in particular was really good on a whole range of Brazilian percussion instruments - his pandeiro technique put my own to shame!

Simon B

[congastu]

Chris Crooks should be coming over to Liverpool to guest for a Latin jazz outfit with me, Gafro and Chris shortly. Havent met yet, But Ive heard a lot about him! I dont know Billy Booth, but theres a guy called Andy Boothman in Manchester whos really up on his folklorico stuff- maybe the same guy under a different alias? Im actually in Liverpool, but theres lots of exchange now with some of the Manchester lads, which can only be good [just dont talk about football!]

[Simon B]

Hi Stu. Yeah Chris Crookes is a really nice player - like Billy his patterns and style seemed to me quite Brazilian in influence. Maybe Billy does use a pseudonym. He's one of the most complete Airto-style multi-percusionists I've seen from the UK. Actually - and I realise now that you're actually in Liverpool! - today I met and jammed with a Cuban percussionist called Javier today who lives in Manchester. He plays with the Cuban violinist Omar Puente and I learnt a lot from him.

Simon

[Johnny Conga]

To be a "complete" player one must find internal humility and patience when dealing with musicians/artists. I have been on the road going on 40 years now and I have had a ton of experiences with very talented cats but you couldn't share a room with them, for personal hygiene reasons or the cat was just outright an A-hole, but could play his ass off. I know guys who quit playing because of being on the road and living out of a suitcase which I have done most of my life. My wife even says to me" hey your not in a hotel room now, your at home , pick that up"!...even I forget at times that I am actually in my own home and think the maid is coming to clean it up. Though life on the road has become really better and so have the buses to travel in, you really have to LOVE what your doing to put up with all the "Bull-#$%^". I would hop on a bus in a conga second to go on tour, I still have the love for it, and look for my next opportunity to travel once again....... JC JOHNNY CONGA...

[congastu]

Ill go with that Johnny!!
In fact, I think I love the travelling and the stories almost as much as playing. Ive been lucky to tour across Europe a few times and really enjoyed it, but it was with bands whose music I wasnt really into and with musicians who although nice enough werent on the same wavelength. Now to go with an outfit I really loved and people on the same tip- youd have to pick me off the ceiling!!
Simon- Im not surprised Chris has a strong Brazilian influence, hes another one of those Inner Sensers!! Everyone says hes a really nice guy, too.
Peace and love
Stu