In my discussions with many of you throughout the last few weeks, we have addressed quite a few songs that are in odd time signatures (i.e. not in 4/4 or 2/4 time). I started a playlist of songs that I think are worth your time. One of the characteristics of these songs is that they don’t feel like they are in 5 or 7 or 13. That is the mark of skillful songwriting and arranging.
What songs would YOU add to this list? I want to hear from you. Email me here.
This is an exercise in 7/8 time signature that is designed to build dexterity in both hands, and enhance the ability to create some interesting “big endings” using a rudimentary base and some advanced hand speed. As with everything, start this slowly and build your speed up until you can play this with some fluidity. Good luck!
7/8 Punctuation Exercise by Bryan Tuk Drums on Scribd
For those of you who aren’t familiar with Pat Metheny, he is a legendary jazz guitarist who has won 20 Grammys. He is a bridge to the past, but is a very contemporary composer and player. I saw this interview - which is absolutely packed with wisdom. Not knowledge - musical wisdom.
This is worth your time, but it is a longer piece (about 90 minutes). I listened to it in three sittings, a half hour at a time. Enjoy:
We are not in the business of reviewing movies here, but this documentary really was an uplifting look at a wide range of professional drummers and the reasons why they started drumming in the first place.
The one thing in particular I found enjoyable was that the interview subjects weren’t all the usual characters:
Stephen Perkins (Jane’s Addiction)
Nicko McBrain (Iron Maiden)
Cindy Blackman Sanata (Lenny Kravitz, Santana)
Roger Taylor (Queen)
(there were many, many more).
The filmmakers really took time to put together a unique group of pros for this. It is on Netflix, and parents - there is some strong language in the film here and there. Rated TV-MA.
The next spotlight from our recent Jazz Trio Workshop is on Alex Zurl.
Earlier this month, I brought in two professionals: Jeff Knoettner (Piano) and Rob Swanson (Bass) to perform with some of the studio's members. Total immersion in playing at a professional level - there is no way to simulate it - so we learn by DOING. Education by action.
Here, Alex Zurl performs the classic "My Girl", staying deep in the pocket and serving the song.
Here at the studio we strive to prepare our members to perform at a high level. Earlier this month, I brought in two professionals: Jeff Knoettner (Piano) and Rob Swanson (Bass) to perform with some of the studio's members. Total immersion in playing at a professional level - there is no way to simulate it - so we learn by DOING. Education by action.
Here, David Robinson performs the standard "Autumn Leaves", playing some tasteful brush work on the front of the piece.
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more videos from our other members coming soon…