Learning to Learn

When all is said and done, how proficient we are on our instrument is not determined by how long we practice, but by how efficient and productive our practice time is.

TIP Day at Drummers Collective Recap

The first ever Hudson Music TIP day at Drummers Collective was a tremendous success. The event was more than sold out, and unfortunately we had to turn away several people in the days leading up to the event. What looked like a good idea on paper turned into an even better day in reality…

The Power of the Tambourine

The tambourine can be heard in music ranging from pop, rock, gospel and R&B to jazz, Latin, country and world music. The sound, texture and power that this seemingly simple instrument can bring to the music are one of a kind.

Clave Conundrum: Which View To Choose?

After being fortunate enough to have seen a number of the most influential Latin percussionists of our time play simply astounding music, I encountered a sort of musical puzzle. The polyrhythmic prevalence of 3 over 2 and 3 over 4 has intrigued me and prompted me to document a combination I had yet to see on paper.

Greetings From China

In this article, educator Scott Thompson talks about his surprising experiences living, working and teaching in rural Western China.

Getting Motor-vated Part 1 -Rhythmic Ideas for Teaching

The Motor-vation idea is something I adapted from inventor, drummer, and educator Bob Gatzen. I replaced the word “motivate” with “Motor-vate” which means to move ahead, and continue progressing in positive forward motion. This applies to both drumming and life. So in my quest for new teaching ideas and methods to Motor-vate students, I came up with something for teaching rhythms.