Steve Weiss Music Blog

Rudimental Drumming

January 7, 2008 – 3:04 pm
A little time with a pad and sticks is time well spent. It's relaxing and fun all at the same time. Recently, I was looking for a change of pace in the practice routine and decided to take a trip back to the basics by brushing up on my rudimental technique. Previous knowledge flowed back to me with ease as I played through the pages of "The All American Drummer" by Wilcoxon and "14 Modern Contest Solos" by Pratt. Solos from Charlie Wilcoxon, John Pratt and Mitch Markovich all felt great on my hands as I played for hours. Reviewing this material lead me to search out less-familiar titles and came across many old and new sources of material for all rudimental percussionists. The "N.A.R.D Drum Solos" is a collection of solos contributed by members of the former National ...

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Drum Stick Package for Rock Band

January 7, 2008 – 11:41 am
We've been receiving a lot of requests for drum sticks from fans of the new video game, Rock Band. There has also been a demand for the Gum Rubber Drum Pad Mod, using HQ Soundoff Pads or Vic Firth Drum Mutes. As a result, we've put together a package that offers silent playing with better rebound, and professional quality drum sticks to enhance game play. Drum Sticks One of our staff members who is a professional drummer and avid gamer selected the Zildjian Rock Black Drum Sticks for playing Rock or Heavy Metal songs in the game and the Zildjian Travis Barker White Drum Sticks for Pop or Alternative songs in the game. The difference in color allows for quick stick changes. The difference in weight, length and diameter offer an enhanced feel, optimized for the different genres of music. Stick Tips As vtjustinb points out on the Rock Band ...

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Holiday Sheet Music

November 27, 2007 – 5:26 pm
When I started to put together a list of holiday music for the banner on the front page of our website, I thought it would be a fairly simple task. Looking back on it now, all I can say is "WOW", was I completely wrong in that assumption. The list of holiday music is as diverse as the percussive world itself. Arrangements of classics holiday tunes are available for all types of instrumentations and grade levels. Arrangements by Chris Brooks, Lloyd Brooks and Murray Houllif will keep your beginning percussion ensembles content for the whole season. The great thing about many of these arrangements is the integration of non-pitched and pitched percussion sounds. Most of the arrangements take the classic melodies and intertwine them with great grooves and feels that most students will find fun and challenging. The thing that surprised me most was that the arrangements weren't only for ...

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Facebook Pages

November 14, 2007 – 10:16 am
We just setup a Facebook page that includes a discussion board, and will include a wiki shortly. Check it out if you're on Facebook and have a moment. Steve Weiss Music Facebook Page

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How to Purchase a Drumset this Holiday Season

November 13, 2007 – 8:42 am
What do you say when your son or daughter asks for a drumset this holiday season? Although the first reaction may be "not in my lifetime", here are a few things to think about when you decide to purchase your first drumset. One of the most important features to look for on an entry level drumset is if it includes cymbals and a seat (throne). This will avoid experiencing the "what do you mean batteries aren't included?" feeling Christmas morning, as your child looks at you in disgust. Since many of the top manufacturers include all items needed to start playing immediately, it should be something that you look for. Some off-brand or store brand drumsets disguise the fact that they do not come with everything needed to play. The height of your child is another factor to consider when picking out a drumset. Purchasing ...

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Gibraltar Releases Softy Drum Throne

November 8, 2007 – 12:07 pm
Hard drum throne surfaces can be very uncomfortable and difficult to endure for extended periods of time. Without solid support and comfort, your style and creativity can be severely impaired. Gibraltar’s new Softy Throne incorporates a top grade, 5" thick cushion and an outer layer of plush courdura fabric creating a soft and comfortable sitting surface. The Softy seat mounts on a double-braced tripod base with die-cast spindle height adjustment system and Gibraltar’s Super Foot solid foundation rubber foot support. This Gibraltar Drum Throne offers maximum comfort. The 9608SFT Softy Gibraltar Drum Throne with double braced tripod. Retail: $189.99 Steve Weiss Music Price: $99.95

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