Project "Induction Phase"
Monday, October 5, 2009 at 1:42PM I decided the initial phase of the Drummer Improvement Project will consist mostly of collecting information, organizing materials/resources I have, and working on a specific plan for rehearsing and studying. During this phase, I may do a little less actual drumming than in later phases, but I will make sure to absorb plenty of drumming related content by reading and listening to podcasts. If my project were an Atkins Diet, I'd be in the "induction phase" right now.
Last weekend Sunspot had two shows. During these shows, I paid careful attention to the way I had my drums set up, as well as any odd or uncomfortable physical feelings during the shows. As I mentioned in my last post, the past week was cursed with a strained muscle in my neck/shoulder. I was really worried this would affect my performance, since it made practicing almost impossible last week. But thankfully it wasn't too bad, and today it feels much better.
Setup and ready to play at 4 Stools Short in Wisconsins Rapids, WI
I did notice a few things with respect to my setup that I'll be making some adjustments to in the near future. For one thing, the way I sit at my drum set lends an odd angle to my right leg. It isn't "square" to the drum, the way I believe it should be. I also noticed my left hand coming in contact with my left leg several times during snare hits, which might indicate my snare isn't in the ideal position. I hope to eliminate these problems at some point down the line...
In the van on the way back from our weekend of shows, I started reading one of my old Modern Drummer magazines. I have a big stack of these mags in my basement, many of which I've never read or even opened due to the fact that I subscribed during an insanely busy time in my life. Most of the articles are still relevant and interesting, so I think it'll be good to go back and read some of them. The issue I brought along last weekend I was drawn to because it included articles about Zach Lind from Jimmy Eat World, as well as Thomas Lang; both drummers I admire for different reasons (Lind because of his style & experience with a band similar in style to mine; Lang because of his insane technicality and classical background).
This week I will also be spending some time on getting the web site looking nicer.
Reader Comments (2)
This is a great idea, Wendy! Let me know if you need any help in your journey to become an even-more-kick-ass drummer than you already are! :D I saw you mentioned hearing in that podcast about band members facing each other during practice. It's a good point. I've actually had many practices where we face away from the drummer, especially if we haven't had a show in a while. It really helps! You know what will help you practice good rhythm? Doing the Thriller! :) Let me know when you can get together soon! I'm free a lot of weeknights and a little bit on the weekends (except for this coming one). Rock on, Wendy Lynn!
I am really excited to read this stuff. You are my favorite drummer in Wisconsin, and probably third over all behind Sim Cain and Tom Larson.
I am crazy in love to read about your process.