In the realm of percussion, the goal for every music educator is to create a percussionist who is a musician. As teachers, we dream of a highly disciplined group of students in the back of the band hall who are every bit as accomplished as… Read More...
With the old head still in place, mark the counterhoop and a corresponding spot on the bowl. Adjust the fine tuner so that it is midrange. Pedal the pitch of the head down to its lowest point. Read More...
Teaching cymbal technique is often a neglected topic in the course of study for many young percussionists. Due to time limitations and an overwhelming amount of information that is necessary to learn on snare drum, keyboards, and timpani,… Read More...
How do you play a basic crash? First, I think it’s important to have a pre-conceived idea about what sound should be produced when the cymbals are brought together. Read More...
This is the last part in a four part series examining the importance of proper auxiliary percussion in large ensemble performance. The instruments suggested are a basic inventory recommended for all band programs. Within the world of… Read More...
This is Part 3 in a four part series examining the importance of proper auxiliary percussion in large ensemble performance. The instruments suggested are a basic inventory recommended for all band programs. Within the world of percussion… Read More...
In this part of this series, we will take a look at another set of basic auxiliary instruments, that band director should have for their ensemble. The instruments we will look at now are: Wood Block, Temple Blocks, Vibra-Slap, Claves, and… Read More...
#1: Tips on Selecting an Indoor Show for your Winter Drum Line
This is the time of year when band directors find themselves with the daunting task of selecting an Indoor Show for their Winter Drum Line. Unfortunately those of us who play… Read More...
The old adage, “where the rubber meets the road,” refers to the tires on an automobile as they spin on the road. In other words, that is where it all happens. That is what counts. That is when the automobile proves its worth. Read More...
Drum Tuning
It's always a good idea to get the head seated before actually tuning the drum up. By seating the head you are actually breaking the glue away from the hoop, allowing the head to be stretched.
The easiest way to get the… Read More...
Avoid Air Pocket Crashes with Cymabls
Easy tip to avoid catching an air pocket when playing crashes!
Eddie Capps
Whether you are in an orchestral or marching setting, you are at risk of what we call “catching air” when you crash your… Read More...
