The Working Percussionist

For the past 13 years, I have been a lecturer at the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music @ CSU, Long Beach, and every semester my students ask me what it takes to succeed as a working percussionist. Now that it is February and the semester is up and running, I thought I would include some of those thoughts here. I strongly believe we need to create our own opportunities in order to “succeed” as a working musician. Sure, some of us are going to win a Symphony audition or be at the right place at the right time, but more likely, you are going to have to work hard,...

Technology and Its Use by Percussion Edu...

Over the summer, Dr. Tracy Wiggins (UNC Pembroke) asked me to contribute to an article he was writing for The Percussive Notes journal. After waiting 6 months, it has finally been released in the January 2012 issue. The article features an interview with three other percussion professors, including Norman Weinberg (University of Arizona), John W. Parks IV (The Florida State), and Thomas Burritt (University of Texas, Austin). I was honored to be a part of the article. Thank you Tracy! Technology Article For more information about the Percussive Arts Society, please visit...

What is Proper Stage Etiquette?

There is so much to know about being a musician that sometimes the little things are not addressed. Some of those “little things” are etiquette issues. As teachers, we can only do so much in lessons and ensemble rehearsals. So I’ve have decided to start a list. I would like to start an open dialogue about etiquette issues and create a comprehensive list that can be turned into a PDF that we can all share with our students. I welcome any feedback and contributions. My previous blog post, Ten Things I Wish I Knew Going into my First Ensemble Rehearsal...

CV or Resume: Which one do you use?

What is the difference between a CV (curriculum vitae) and a resume? In this post I want to discuss the major differences between a CV and Resume and show you an example of each. As a student, I think it is very important to have an updated resume. You will need to use a resume for grad school auditions and job interviews. It also comes in handy when you apply for scholarships at your university or to PASIC. Keep all of your programs and try and update your resume at least twice a year (Summer and Winter Break). The main difference between a CV and a Resume is the length...

How Do You FInd New Music?

For most college students, it is the beginning of the Spring semester. (Only 4 months until summer!!!) It is also time for a lot of recitals. One question I get a lot during this time is “where do I find a solo/chamber piece for my recital?” I have a lot of suggestions that I give my students, but I would like to also find out where the DrumChattr community finds new music or repertoire. Check out my resources below and then add a comment in the Chattr Section and let me know if I missed anything. 1) Colleagues and Teachers – When ever I am looking for new repertoire, I...