Re: Sticking to Tradition?
Originally Posted by
Gretschhead
I would have to agree with PastorBob that it is best to learn traditional styles and technique if you can, it will show in your playing. But at the same time I think it is perfectly ok to just bang around on whatever drum you have if it brings you or others joy. Maybe my question should have been is it ok for "Professionals" to stray from tradition? Even this I think you really have to consider in what context is the instrument being played. Tough question, but I like the feedback.
Hey, Gretschhead, I'm not comfortable with guys playin' bongos and congas with sticks, but that's purely personal.
Like most drummers I know, I learned the rudiments but today 99 percent of what I do on the hand drums is a combination of the ruds and what I've heard and played before. And 99 percent of THAT has been influenced by the Latin and rock music that I love to listen to and play. For example, I use an extremely slow cha-cha beat on some of the slower hymns our church guitar group plays; it fits perfectly and it sounds cool without being obtrusive.
And on a livelier tune, I've snuck in licks from Santana and Jimmy Buffett which I've incorporated into my style of playing (right down to some wicked slaps on the quinto). As PB said, man, all tradition starts somewhere!
keep the beat goin' ... Don't keep it to yourself!
Charlie
"If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away." --Henry David Thoreau, "Walden," 1854
"There's a lot to be said for Time Honored tradition and value." --In memory of Frank "fiacovaz" Iacovazzi
"Maybe your drums can be beat, but you can't."--Jack Keck
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