Rudimental Ramblings: What Are “Rudiments” Anyway?

By mark wessels | January 19, 2010
I've always been a little uneasy about the concept that there should be an official list of "40 Essential Rudiments". Is it just out of date? Or is it completely inaccurate to declare that ANY list of patterns/rudimental vocabulary is essential? That leads me to ask, "What are rudiments anyway?"
Posted in Concert, Drumset, Marching | Also tagged , , , , | 11 Comments

To Moeller or Not to Moeller?

By mark wessels | December 10, 2009
This article is more of a question than it is a point of view.  I do have my opinion, but I’d like to get as much feedback from the rudimental community as possible.  The topic concerns whether you teach the Moeller motion to beginning “band” students. I’m filming some instructional video for the basic rudiments – [...]
Posted in Marching | Also tagged , , , | 10 Comments

Extreme metal 101: Part 1 in a series

By Gus Rios | December 3, 2009
Extreme metal drumming has become somewhat of a new “hot topic”, pun intended. In a world where tempos generally live above 200bpm and volumes are extreme, there are many areas that are different than other drumming styles and cultures. In the first part of my series, I'll start with establishing a great home base: the “extreme” drummer’s drum kit.
Posted in Drumset | Also tagged , | 11 Comments

Heel-Raise Bass Pedal Technique, Part I

By Mat Marucci | December 3, 2009
The heel-raise technique I’m about to detail is one that can be used for both speed and power when needed. It allows the player to bury the beater if desired or let the beater come off the drumhead with as much power. But I think once a drummer learns to use the technique correctly the buried beater days might be over. Why sacrifice speed when you can have both speed and power?
Posted in Drumset | Also tagged , | 1 Comment