Practice with the playalong audio files!

Triple Stroke Roll (Slow-Fast-Slow)
Bronze	Silver	Gold	Platinum	Diamond

Rudiment Application:

John Wooton’s Vic Firth products for this video:

MS2 Like the MS1‚ but with extra length for more leverage and power. L = 17" | Dia. = .695"  [enlarge photo]

New to the rudiments? Here’s a quick suggestion!

In order to facilitate learning the rudiments in a systematic way, Dr. Wooton suggests that you approach them in this sequence (rather than how they are listed on various rudiment charts or posters). This “tier system” approaches the most fundamental rudiments first, providing you with a base on which to build. Each successive tier adds on the basic skills learned in the previous tier.

Flam Paradiddle
Pataflafla
Double Drag
Flam Paradiddlediddle
Single Ratamacue
Double Ratamacue
Triple Ratamacue
Inverted Flam Tap
Flam Drag

Dr. John Wooton is the director of percussion studies at The University of Southern Mississippi. He is well versed in many percussion instruments but has specialized in rudimental snare drum, drum set, marimba, vibraphone and steel pans. Dr. Wooton directs the Percussion Ensemble, Steel Pan Orchestra, Graduate Percussion Ensemble and the Samba Band. He also performs regularly on steel pans as a soloist or with his band, KAISO!, and plays vibes for the USM Jazz Quintet.  From 1988 to 1992, he served as percussion coordinator/pep band director for the University of Iowa bands. As an instructor and performer, Dr. Wooton has been associated with five P.A.S.I.C. Marching Percussion Forum champions. He marched snare drum for four years with the Phantom Regiment Drum and Bugle Corps of Rockford, Ill. (1981-84). During those years, Dr. Wooton held the Drum Corps Midwest Individual Snare Drum title and the Percussive Arts Society Snare Drum Individual title. From 1987 to 1989, he served as the percussion caption head for the Phantom Regiment Drum and Bugle Corps. For the 1990-91 drum corps seasons, he served as program coordinator/percussion arranger for “Nite Express” Drum and Bugle Corps of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Since joining the faculty at Southern Miss, Dr. Wooton, along with establishing a strong percussion studio, has introduced the USM Steel Band, Pop Percussion Ensemble, Samba Band and Salsa Band. He has served as the president of the Percussion Arts Society, Mississippi Chapter, and is presently a member of the Percussive Arts Society Marching Committee. Dr. Wooton gives clinics around the world representing Pearl Drums, SABIAN Cymbals, Vic Firth Sticks., Remo Drum Heads and Row Loff Productions Publications. Dr. Wooton is the author of “The Drummer’s Rudimental Reference Book” – ”Perhaps the most definitive rudimental technique book of our time” – Thomas L. Davis. Wooton’s latest publication, “Dr. Throwdown’s Rudimental Remedies” (The rudimental method for what ails you!) includes 25 lessons, organized on a specific technique and/or rudiment. Accompanying play-along tracks for every exercise and each track is set in seven different tempos starting with “Tempo del Learno” all the way to “Ludicrous Speed.” You can find out more information on Dr. Wooton’s books and performance schedule at his Web site: www.johnwooton.com

Check out John’s latest book  “Dr. Throwdown’s Rudimental Remedies” A fantastic compilation of rudimental exercises written and collected throughout the years by Dr. John Wooton. Included is an accompanying DVD of Dr. Wooton performing many of the exercises and etudes. An enormous amount of downloadable play-along tracks are included on the DVD as well as insightful philosophies from Dr.Throwdown, himself!

The Drummer’s Rudimental Reference Book This book is packed full of lessons and exercises. Neatly organized into 41 different sections, this book covers rudiments, one-handed exercises, stick control, timing, relaxation, odd-groupings, back sticking, & tenor drumming. A must for the private instructor and band director!

By: John F. King, Au.D.

Longer than I’ve been an audiologist, I’ve been playing drums and percussion in marching, concert, and drum set venues. I know first hand what a thrill it is to perform in front of thousands of people and the adrenaline rush one gets from playing loud. However, I want to raise the awareness of hearing heath, because often by the time you notice your hearing is deteriorating, there isn’t much anyone can do about it.

The music industry as a whole lacks regulations on the use of hearing protection devices (HPD) and the duration of exposure to high intensity sounds which ultimately leads to permanent hearing loss. The fact is, musicians of all genres, from heavy metal to classical, suffer from various durations of high intensity sound exposure. Percussionists are at particular risk of hearing loss given the potential for their instruments to produce short duration high impact sounds. Given that there are no regulations in the music industry on hearing conservation, it is imperative to educate yourself on music induced hearing loss and protect your most valuable asset as a musician…your ears!

Ear Anatomy

The human ear can be broken down into three parts: the outer ear, the middle ear, and the inner ear. The outer ear is composed of the pinna (the most common appendage people get pierced), ear canal, and the tympanic membrane (ear drum). The middle ear houses the 3 tiniest bones in the body called the ossicles, which transmits and amplifies sound waves from the ear drum to the oval window of the cochlea, which is the beginning of the inner ear. Within the cochlea are thousands of hair cells, tonotopically arranged by frequency like a xylophone, and this is where exposure to loud sounds does most of its damage.

Music Induced Hearing Loss

There are two parameters that are associated with music induced hearing loss: how loud the music is and how long you are exposed to it. For example, current regulations from the occupational safety & health administration (OSHA) state that workers will not be exposed to 90 dB sound levels for longer than 8 hours per day. Rock concerts easily reach 100 dB, which would have an allowable time limit of only 2 hours per day. Of course, that’s not accounting for the remaining 22 hours in which you may be in a noisy kitchen, listening to your iPod or other portable device, etc.

Overtime, the cochlear hair cells, which are responsible for amplification and transmission of neural impulses to the acoustic nerve, will become flattened, frayed, and broken due to exposure to loud noises. In addition to permanent hearing loss, exposure to loud sounds may also cause tinnitus, a high pitch ringing or buzzing sound. You may have experienced this sensation following a rock concert or rehearsal along with a sense of fullness in the ears and muffled sounds. This is an indication that you were exposing yourself to damaging intensity levels and is known as a temporary threshold shift. These symptoms usually resolve after a day or two, but not all musicians will have the same reaction and these symptoms can become permanent if action is not taken. If you experience any of these symptoms or have to shout to be heard less than a foot away, then you are in a loud environment and should be wearing some form of hearing protection device.

So, now that you know about music induced hearing loss, what can you do about it? First and foremost, you should visit a licensed audiologist as soon as possible and get your hearing tested. Having this test completed early on in your music career will provide you and your audiologist with a baseline test to compare future test results to. After your initial hearing test, you should return annually for follow-up hearing tests to watch for any changes in your hearing. The next step is to invest in quality hearing protection devices which will protect your hearing without distorting your music.

Musician’s Earplugs

Many of you have probably experienced using the one-size-fits-most foam style earplugs. This style of earplug attenuates high frequencies much more than low frequencies, making everything sound muffled, and they aren’t too comfortable either. Custom-made musician’s earplugs resolve these issues by incorporating a flat frequency response filter into a silicone or vinyl mold. To get started, your audiologist will first take an impression of your ear canals. These impressions would be sent to an earmold lab where they will create the earplug based on your ear canal shape and length as well as any specifications given by your audiologist. The finished product will then be sent back to your audiologist where he or she can inspect them in your ears, make sure they fit properly, and instruct you on proper insertion and removal of the musician’s earplugs. Filters are made by Etymotic Research and come in 9, 15, and 25 dB attenuation levels. I do not recommend getting anything lower than 15 dB filters for percussionists.

In-The-Ear Monitors

When performing on stage, musicians have customarily used floor monitors, or wedges, to better hear themselves and their band mates. However, there are many drawbacks to this type of system. Acoustically, the floor monitor mix, which is directed at the musicians on stage, can reach such high levels that it begins to interfere with the front of house mix which is directed at the audience. This usually leads into a volume war, in which the front of house engineer, monitoring engineer, and musicians keep turning up the volume of their own particular mix until they are on the verge of feedback. Timing issues may also arise as musicians vary their distance from the floor monitor which is left stationary at their position on stage. Lastly, floor monitors are bulky and take up physical space on stage and in touring vehicles.

In-the-ear monitors, like musician’s plugs, are custom made for your ear in either a silicone, acrylic, or hybrid mold. It is recommended that you either obtain a silicone or an acrylic with a silicone canal portion mold to get the most sound isolation benefit. By utilizing in-the-ear monitors, sound quality to the musicians and audience improves by isolating the monitoring mix from the front of house mix. Timing cues also improve as the musician never varies in distance from the in-the-ear monitor, it goes wherever he or she goes.

Finally, in-the-ear monitors provide a convenient way to have your own mix and potentially protect your hearing. I say potentially because in-the-ear monitors still have the ability to damage your hearing if you do not use them properly. Most musicians that have used floor monitors while performing will turn up the volume to the same levels when they switch to in-the- ear monitors. We are creatures of habit, but this is one that must be broken if you want to save your hearing. When worn properly, in-the-ear monitors will help protect your hearing by attenuating external sounds, allowing you to listen to your mix at a reduced volume. Again, annual hearing tests from a licensed audiologist are paramount to monitor your hearing and your use of in-the-ear monitors.

Vic Firth Headphones

Finally, as a percussionist and audiologist, I’m pleased to discuss Vic Firth’s own line of hearing protection devices. The Drummer’s Headphones and Stereo Isolation Headphones offer 25 and 24 dB of attenuation, respectively. Both are circumaural style headphones that fit over the entire ear and over the head. They are well cushioned and provide enough tension as to not slip out of place or let in external sound with moderate to heavy head movement. The Stereo Isolation Headphones also provide a quarter inch / eighth inch plug which will accommodate most forms of audio equipment, including iPods and metronomes. I found these to work particularly well in recording studio situations. Vic Firth also offers Kidphones, which offer 22 dB attenuation and are sized specially for children.

Drummer's Headphones Non-electronic headphones which reduce overall noise levels by 25 decibels. Ideal for practice.   [enlarge photo]

Stereo Isolation Headphones. These specially designed headphones drastically reduce the level of external sound reaching the musician's ears‚ offering valuable protection from potential damage. The SIH1 reduces overall noise levels by 24 decibels and features high quality stereo headphones. Unlike non-isolation headsets‚ where musicians typically crank the volume to very high and potentially damaging sound levels in order to hear the music clearly‚ the SIH1 reduces ambient noise from the instruments. This allows the musician to play along with the recorded music or monitor other performers in a live situation at comfortable and safe sound levels.   [enlarge photo]

Kidphones From the start‚ caring for kids' hearing is important! These non-electronic headphones are specially sized for children and reduce overall noise levels by 22 decibels.   [enlarge photo]

As you can see, there have been strong advancements in hearing protection options for musicians, and in particular percussionists. Don’t forget, baseline and annual hearing tests performed by a licensed audiologist are very important for monitoring changes overtime. Also, performing or rehearsing your musical instrument is not the only time noise exposure is a concern. Make sure to implement hearing conservation strategies in all areas of your life. For instance, it’s okay to listen to your favorite song on your iPod or stereo a little bit louder. But, when the song is over, turn the volume back down. You only have one set of ears to last you a lifetime, make sure you protect them!

John F. King is a licensed audiologist who practices in San Diego, CA. He received his doctor of audiology degree from a joint doctoral program between UC San Diego and San Diego State University. His practice, San Diego Earplugs, focuses on hearing conservation and custom earmold products for musicians, surfers, and audiophiles. You can visit his website for more information at www.sandiegoearplugs.com.

Dr. King was introduced to the field of audiology through his love for music. He was taught piano by his grandfather at a young age, however by the time he reached middle school he traded in the keys for drums and percussion. As section leader of his high school drumline, he performed for former president Bill Clinton, performed on stage with Shania Twain, and lastly was invited to perform in the opening ceremonies for the 2000 Summer Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia. Since then, Dr. King has performed all over San Diego county with several local bands and has been studying guitar, piano, and the recording arts.

VIC FIRTH PRESENTS:

WE WANT THE FUNK!

A Journey Through
the History of R&B Drumming

Presented by Zoro, this series of video lessons features some of the grooves that charted the course of drumming history – starting in the 1940s when shuffles ruled the airwaves, through the dawning of drum-machine inspired hip-hop beats in the late 1970s. This weeks’ groove:

Watch Zoro’s video lesson on this great groove!

Here’s the original 1954 recording:

Muddy Waters performing Hoochie Choochie Man at the Newport Jazz Festival in 1960:

And here’s a recording of Eric Clapton covering this tune with STEVE GADD on drums:

CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT ALL THE GROOVES FROM THIS GREAT FEATURE!

Have questions, comments or want to add your own observations on this lesson?
Please leave a comment below!

Haven’t registered for the Vic Firth Exchange?
Don’t miss out on the fun! Create your own profile, write a blog, make friends! Register now to get started!

GET YOUR GROOVE ON WITH ZORO’S VIC FIRTH SIGNATURE STICK!

Zoro (SZ) An enlarged SD4 with a barrel tip for great tone while grooving on the cymbals and hi-hat. L = 16 3/8" | Dia. = .555  [enlarge photo]

Zoro Zoro is an internationally known rock star and the consummate definition of the rare man who marches to the beat of a different drum. One of the world’s most renowned and respected drummers, he has toured and recorded with Lenny Kravitz, Bobby Brown, Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, The New Edition, Jody Watley, Sean Lennon, Philip Bailey, Lisa Marie Presley, among many others. Zoro’s worldwide appeal is evident from his numerous awards and accolades. He is consistently voted “#1 R&B Drummer & Educator” in Modern Drummer, Drum! and Rhythm Magazines. The author of several books, his current work-in-progress is destined to provide inspiration to readers of all ages for the fulfillment of dreams. The “Minister of Groove” has been the subject of dozens of print, radio and television stories for more than two decades. He has been described as tenacious, dedicated, and passionate – qualities that stand out to anyone who crosses his path. Not your stereotypical rock star, Zoro is a positive role model whose example of hard work and clean living has served as an inspiration to generations. Don’t miss Zoro’s artist feature, including clips from his performance at the 2005 Modern Drummer Festival and our exclusive video interview! For more information, visit Zoro online at www.zorothedrummer.com

About “The Commandments of R&B Drumming” Series:

Available from Alfred Music Publishing, “The Commandments of R&B Drumming” series is a historical and in-depth study of R&B drumming, from the early years of rhythm and blues of the 1940s to soul to funk to hip-hop. Here are the products in this highly acclaimed series:

Loaded with history, photos, graphics, exercises and transcriptions, “The Commandments of Early Rhythm & Blues Drumming” brings to live a little-known, but highly influential, period of drumming history that paved the way for all the modern styles heard on the airwaves today – and includes the most comprehensive guide to shuffle playing ever written! Winner of the 2009 Book of the Year in Drum! magazine’s reader’s poll.

The original book in the series, The Commandments of R&B Drumming” is an in-depth, historical study of early soul, funk and rock ‘n roll – from the late 1950s through the beginnings of hip-hop in the 1990s. With 160 pages, Zoro covers every imaginable angle, nook and cranny of R&B drumming. Voted the #1 educational drum book in the world by Modern Drummer Magazine’s reader’s poll.

Featuring 14 of the funkiest tunes in significant sub-genres like gospel, blues, soul, funk, go-go, new jack swing, and hip-hop, “The Commandments of R&B Play-Along” package chronologically documents the evolution of R&B drumming from the 1950s through the late 90s. The CD includes original songs by R&B legends such as James Brown, The Meters, Aretha Franklin, and Janet Jackson.

In the award winning “Commandments of R&B Drumming” DVD, Zoro brings his intense passion for funky music to life with a very in depth and entertaining look at the history of Rhythm & Blues music and drummers. His unique presentation delves into the evolution of R&B drumming by demonstrating grooves that span a 100-year timeline, from gospel and New Orleans, to funk and hip hop. A must have for drummers who are serious about groove!!

Practice with the playalong audio files!

 

Flamacue (Slow-Fast-Slow)
Bronze	Silver	Gold	Platinum	Diamond

 

 

Rudiment Application:

John Wooton’s Vic Firth products for this video:

MS2 Like the MS1‚ but with extra length for more leverage and power. L = 17" | Dia. = .695"  [enlarge photo]

New to the rudiments? Here’s a quick suggestion!

In order to facilitate learning the rudiments in a systematic way, Dr. Wooton suggests that you approach them in this sequence (rather than how they are listed on various rudiment charts or posters). This “tier system” approaches the most fundamental rudiments first, providing you with a base on which to build. Each successive tier adds on the basic skills learned in the previous tier.

Dr. John Wooton is the director of percussion studies at The University of Southern Mississippi. He is well versed in many percussion instruments but has specialized in rudimental snare drum, drum set, marimba, vibraphone and steel pans. Dr. Wooton directs the Percussion Ensemble, Steel Pan Orchestra, Graduate Percussion Ensemble and the Samba Band. He also performs regularly on steel pans as a soloist or with his band, KAISO!, and plays vibes for the USM Jazz Quintet.  From 1988 to 1992, he served as percussion coordinator/pep band director for the University of Iowa bands. As an instructor and performer, Dr. Wooton has been associated with five P.A.S.I.C. Marching Percussion Forum champions. He marched snare drum for four years with the Phantom Regiment Drum and Bugle Corps of Rockford, Ill. (1981-84). During those years, Dr. Wooton held the Drum Corps Midwest Individual Snare Drum title and the Percussive Arts Society Snare Drum Individual title. From 1987 to 1989, he served as the percussion caption head for the Phantom Regiment Drum and Bugle Corps. For the 1990-91 drum corps seasons, he served as program coordinator/percussion arranger for “Nite Express” Drum and Bugle Corps of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Since joining the faculty at Southern Miss, Dr. Wooton, along with establishing a strong percussion studio, has introduced the USM Steel Band, Pop Percussion Ensemble, Samba Band and Salsa Band. He has served as the president of the Percussion Arts Society, Mississippi Chapter, and is presently a member of the Percussive Arts Society Marching Committee. Dr. Wooton gives clinics around the world representing Pearl Drums, SABIAN Cymbals, Vic Firth Sticks., Remo Drum Heads and Row Loff Productions Publications. Dr. Wooton is the author of “The Drummer’s Rudimental Reference Book” – ”Perhaps the most definitive rudimental technique book of our time” – Thomas L. Davis. Wooton’s latest publication, “Dr. Throwdown’s Rudimental Remedies” (The rudimental method for what ails you!) includes 25 lessons, organized on a specific technique and/or rudiment. Accompanying play-along tracks for every exercise and each track is set in seven different tempos starting with “Tempo del Learno” all the way to “Ludicrous Speed.” You can find out more information on Dr. Wooton’s books and performance schedule at his Web site: www.johnwooton.com

Check out John’s latest book  “Dr. Throwdown’s Rudimental Remedies” A fantastic compilation of rudimental exercises written and collected throughout the years by Dr. John Wooton. Included is an accompanying DVD of Dr. Wooton performing many of the exercises and etudes. An enormous amount of downloadable play-along tracks are included on the DVD as well as insightful philosophies from Dr.Throwdown, himself!

The Drummer’s Rudimental Reference Book This book is packed full of lessons and exercises. Neatly organized into 41 different sections, this book covers rudiments, one-handed exercises, stick control, timing, relaxation, odd-groupings, back sticking, & tenor drumming. A must for the private instructor and band director!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

GAVIN’S NEW SIGNATURE STICK:

Gavin Harrison (SHAR) An elongated ROCK shaft with a blended taper and tip. Delivering an ideal combination of power and playability. With Vic Grip. L = 16 7/8" | Dia. = .630"  [enlarge photo]

“Gavin’s new signature stick brings something unique and musical to the market. He has been an important part of this family for many years and I am honored to have a musician of his caliber in our lineup of signature artists!” -Vic Firth

VISIT GAVIN’S ARTIST PAGE

DOWNLOAD
Official press release and high resolution product images.

Performance Spotlight

VIC FIRTH PRESENTS:

WE WANT THE FUNK!

A Journey Through
the History of R&B Drumming

Presented by Zoro, this series of video lessons features some of the grooves that charted the course of drumming history – starting in the 1940s when shuffles ruled the airwaves, through the dawning of drum-machine inspired hip-hop beats in the late 1970s. This weeks’ groove features a 1948 Wynonie Harris hit, “Good Rockin’ Tonight”

Watch Zoro’s video lesson on this great groove!

Did you know that this is actually a cover of Roy Brown’s “Good Rockin’ Tonight”, recorded a year earlier?

Brown first offered his song to Wynonie, who turned it down. Brown’s version went to number 13 on the Billboard Chart, but Harris’ recording went to number 1 and remained on the chart for half a year.  It’s interesting to compare the two versions! Wynonie’s includes hand claps.

Of course, it wasn’t the last time that this tune has been covered.  Check out this version from Elvis:

And Bruce Springsteen has covered it in live shows for years! Which do you like better? A jump blues version or the straight rock version?

CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT ALL THE GROOVES FROM THIS GREAT FEATURE!

Have questions, comments or want to add your own observations on this lesson?
Please leave a comment below!

Haven’t registered for the Vic Firth Exchange?
Don’t miss out on the fun! Create your own profile, write a blog, make friends! Register now to get started!

GET YOUR GROOVE ON WITH ZORO’S VIC FIRTH SIGNATURE STICK!

Zoro (SZ) An enlarged SD4 with a barrel tip for great tone while grooving on the cymbals and hi-hat. L = 16 3/8" | Dia. = .555  [enlarge photo]

Zoro Zoro is an internationally known rock star and the consummate definition of the rare man who marches to the beat of a different drum. One of the world’s most renowned and respected drummers, he has toured and recorded with Lenny Kravitz, Bobby Brown, Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, The New Edition, Jody Watley, Sean Lennon, Philip Bailey, Lisa Marie Presley, among many others. Zoro’s worldwide appeal is evident from his numerous awards and accolades. He is consistently voted “#1 R&B Drummer & Educator” in Modern Drummer, Drum! and Rhythm Magazines. The author of several books, his current work-in-progress is destined to provide inspiration to readers of all ages for the fulfillment of dreams. The “Minister of Groove” has been the subject of dozens of print, radio and television stories for more than two decades. He has been described as tenacious, dedicated, and passionate – qualities that stand out to anyone who crosses his path. Not your stereotypical rock star, Zoro is a positive role model whose example of hard work and clean living has served as an inspiration to generations. Don’t miss Zoro’s artist feature, including clips from his performance at the 2005 Modern Drummer Festival and our exclusive video interview! For more information, visit Zoro online at www.zorothedrummer.com

About “The Commandments of R&B Drumming” Series:

Available from Alfred Music Publishing, “The Commandments of R&B Drumming” series is a historical and in-depth study of R&B drumming, from the early years of rhythm and blues of the 1940s to soul to funk to hip-hop. Here are the products in this highly acclaimed series:

Loaded with history, photos, graphics, exercises and transcriptions, “The Commandments of Early Rhythm & Blues Drumming” brings to live a little-known, but highly influential, period of drumming history that paved the way for all the modern styles heard on the airwaves today – and includes the most comprehensive guide to shuffle playing ever written! Winner of the 2009 Book of the Year in Drum! magazine’s reader’s poll.

The original book in the series, The Commandments of R&B Drumming” is an in-depth, historical study of early soul, funk and rock ‘n roll – from the late 1950s through the beginnings of hip-hop in the 1990s. With 160 pages, Zoro covers every imaginable angle, nook and cranny of R&B drumming. Voted the #1 educational drum book in the world by Modern Drummer Magazine’s reader’s poll.

Featuring 14 of the funkiest tunes in significant sub-genres like gospel, blues, soul, funk, go-go, new jack swing, and hip-hop, “The Commandments of R&B Play-Along” package chronologically documents the evolution of R&B drumming from the 1950s through the late 90s. The CD includes original songs by R&B legends such as James Brown, The Meters, Aretha Franklin, and Janet Jackson.

In the award winning “Commandments of R&B Drumming” DVD, Zoro brings his intense passion for funky music to life with a very in depth and entertaining look at the history of Rhythm & Blues music and drummers. His unique presentation delves into the evolution of R&B drumming by demonstrating grooves that span a 100-year timeline, from gospel and New Orleans, to funk and hip hop. A must have for drummers who are serious about groove!!