S
Want
to send Todd a letter? You can write him here Send
Todd a Question and
his response will be posted along with your question. Please
do not request backstage passes, ask to meet the band, request
autographed items, ask for rides to the airport, free stuff,
stock tips, drumheads, secret recipes, bail bonds, etc. as
Todd is unable to fulfill them. Any
request asking for special favors, autographs, meet and greets
with Styx will not be met with any response. Please
keep your questions to a musical/drumming nature. Thank you!
February 2009
Hi Todd,
I had the pleasure of meeting you at the MD 2008 Festival. Your performance was just amazing. You are a true master of the instrument. But the thing that I was most impressed with was how cordial you were when I introduced myself. A lot of times, musicians of your caliber seem to just be going through the motions when it comes to meeting people. You get the feeling they are doing it because they feel they have to and it is just a part of the business that they have to suffer through. However, the feeling I got from you was that you enjoy talking to all the people you meet and also enjoy answering their questions and helping them however you can. Over and above being a great player, you are a great person. The drumming and music community can definitely use a few more Todd Suchermans!! I tip my hat to you sir!!
Now for my question. I am a great fan of Steve Smith and I can tell he was a big influence on you as well. In light of that, I am assuming you probably listened to quite a bit of his playing with Journey. In the tune Escape, especially in the live version, I listen to the hi hat and snare part and at first I hear it as eighths on the hat with the hats opening on the downbeats, snare on 2 and 4 with some ghosts in between. Then, the more I listen, the more I here this "inner lope" to the groove, like there is something subtle in the hi hat or snare pattern that is making the groove really happen. I feel there is something happening on the last sixteenth of beats 2 and 4 but I cant put my finger on what it is. Is it hat?...is it ghosted snare?...is it Hat with the foot?? Is my interpretation of the groove as simple as I first described and Steve is just putting the pocket in the perfect place to create the great motion of the groove, or is it his feel combined with a pattern that is more involved than what I first described. I have been trying to get a handle on this for some time now. Please let me know how you hear it or if you happen to know for sure exactly what it is, a transcription would be greatly appreciated!!
Thanks so much for the great contribution of your DVD to the drumming community. My sympathies go out to all of the drummers who do not own one. You don't know what you are missing!!
Fran Merante
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Hi Fran,
Thanks for all your great heartfelt compliments! I'm happy that you enjoyed my MD Fest performance and even more happy that I left you with a positive impression personally. That means a lot, so thanks again. I'm flattered that you enjoyed the dvd too. It was a tremendous amount of work but the feedback I've received has made it all worthwhile.
You know, it's first thing in the morning, hot coffee next to me as I write---and I'm trying to remember the tune in question. I believe at some point Steve is playing open accented (and open with foot) quarter notes on the hat with the "ands" ghosted in the sticking and foot coming down on the "ands" from the opening of the quarters. There are some simple ghost notes on the snare but nothing really tricky. Perhaps get the live DVD from Houston '81. I think visually seeing what's going on will clue you in easier than trying to describe it!
Thanks again for your note and I hope I've steered you in the right direction. Good luck!
Cheers-
Todd
Hi Todd,
The Peoria Show last night was AWESOME. You really shined and the drums sounded amazing out front. Everything was a little bit better than perfect! The drumming was a gross display of talent... just the way we like it. I've got a couple simple questions for You:
1) We're You at Berklee in 1994 - 1995? I was there in the MP&E program. I'm also a drummer.
2) What's the blue guitar Tommy uses on "I'm am the Walrus". It was his most killer sounding guitar. My guess is a Paul Reed Smith or a Baker?
Saw the Universal Studios New Year show a few Years ago, then your clinic in Galesburg, Illinois. Got the new instructional DVD and it RULES. Have a great tour Todd.
STYX rules!
Steve
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Hi Steve,
Thanks for making it to the gig and I'm glad you enjoyed it. To answer your questions, I was at Berklee '87-'88, long before you apparently. I believe Tommy's blue guitar is indeed a PRS.
Thanks for getting the dvd and for all your kind words.
Take care!
Todd
Dear Todd,
I have one of your signature Vater sticks. How long has it been since you used this brand? How long have you used Pro Mark sticks?
Thanks, Charlie Chapman
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Hi Charlie,
I was briefly with Vater, but never had a signature stick with them. What you have is just a 5B with my signature on it.
I've been with Pro Mark, and most happily so, since 2004. I have my signature stick (Todd Sucherman SD330 W) that I designed and Pro Mark nailed it. I'd like to note that the people at Pro Mark are some of the nicest and genuine folks on the planet. My Pro Mark stick is what I've always been "searching for" and now they are in my hands every night. More info on my stick and purchasing info can be found here:
http://promark.com/products/view.cfm?product_id=9122bd17-7ac5-4370-a478-ca69c638dc22
Thanks for writing, Charlie.
Todd
Todd,
I got your DVD "Methods & Mechanics" a few weeks ago, I must say it is one on the best instructional videos I have EVER seen. I took me about a week and 1/2 to watch it, I kept stopping and rewinding. I enjoyed your talking as much as your playing. You shed some light on "off the drumset" situations and I found VERY informing. I will admit that this is the only drum video that I have laughed at. The jazz segment, when you played like "young jazz drummers" was hilarious. You have given me a kick in the butt to start playing better. You really have a love for the instrument, I don't see that very often nowadays! Where did you film the video? The house and the setting was amazing.
Greg Myres
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Hi Greg,
Thanks for getting the DVD and sharing your thoughts with me. If I've given you a "kick in the butt", well, good! That's the whole idea! We filmed at a friend's family ranch about 40 minutes outside of Austin, to answer your question about the location.
OK. I hope the DVD continues to inspire you.
Cheers!
Todd
Hello Todd,
I have wanted to purchase your DVD for my son Andrew, 9, but was wondering if it would be appropriate. I don’t mean this in any way other than “would it be above his head”. He’s been taking drum lessons for almost two years, and is now starting to run with it. So I guess my question is, do you think it would be inspiring for him? All he has done “video-wise” is the drills on vicfirth.com.
Thanks,
Janey
-------------------------
Hi Janey,
If you are asking if there is gratuitous violence, nudity and bad language in the DVD, I can assure you there's not!
While it's far from a "learn HOW to play" DVD, I like to think I made it as encouraging and inspiring as I possibly could. I recently received a note from a guy who told me his 3 year old daughter puts the DVD on every morning--and she doesn't even play. That may be a special case, but nonetheless I like to think that the work ethic, joy, passion for the instrument comes out in my words. Good stuff for young minds in my opinion. There are a lot of things in the DVD that are "I wish someone told me this when I was younger" stuff. So if this interests you, you can order directly from Altitude Digital and it will ship directly to your mailbox.
http://www.altitudedigital.com/todd-sucherman-methods-and-mechanics.html
Thanks for your note and I wish you and your son the best--
Todd
Hi Todd
EXCELLENT dvd! Question regarding my left hand traditional grip, Im having great success with the Moeller teqnique however, as I play, my stick will not stay in the same (sweet spot) position. As we all know, we need it for the best bounce. The stick slides forward. I use Calato sticks, I like the feel alot and the laquer is perfect. Any suggestions would be grateful...!!??
------------------------------------------
Hi______,
Hmmmmmmm, it's hard to address this without actually seeing you. But sticks sometimes move. It's OK. If it's really a problem, make sure the stick is tucked in good between the thumb and first finger---right in the "meaty webbing". That's my fulcrum when I think about it. This begs more questions though. Does your stick move all the time? Just with Moeller? Get in front of a mirror and study your strokes. Watch other drummers on DVD and compare. Use the slo-mo function and then emulate the strokes slowly. Internalize the motions.
I'm afraid that's all I can offer up without seeing you. I hope I've helped in some way. Just be patient and be aware. I have no doubt you find the sweet spot.
Thanks for getting the dvd and I wish you the best of luck!
Todd
Hey Todd!!
My name is Paul Garcia. I am from Miami, Fl and am junior in high school. I have some questions on schooling, reading and preparation for shows, but first i want to tell you what an amazing performance you gave back in September in the Modern Drummer Festival. I went up with my dad and let me tell you, it was one of the most amazing weekends I have ever had. You had a great set and I am so thankful for being able watch you during that weekend. Also, I would like to tell you that your DVD is amazing. I have watched it countless times. It never gets old.
I have a few questions. My first question is about reading. I have been playing for about 8 years now but I have only been taking lessons for 6 months or so. I work as a drummer. I play at my local church on the weekends, Saturday night and all day Sunday. I do get paid which is pretty cool for a 17 year old like me. I am lucky to have an amazing teacher. His name is Carlomagno Araya (carlomagnoaraya.com). I have noticed that I am getting better as a player, but the one thing im stuck on is reading. I was wondering if you have some tips on how to make reading easier or if you have any methods which makes reading easier because I have been stuck on that stuff for a while. I am able to read some things such as Claude Bolling's Suite for jazz piano, flute, bass, and drums. I performed the pieces Javanaise and Sentimental. I was asked to play those tunes at the Christmas Concert at my church and when I saw the part it seemed fairly simple. I did learn the part by reading what i could and listening to recordings. I want to further my reading skills so that I can have a chance of getting accepted into music school. That is where my next question comes in. I am lucky that i live less than five minutes from the University of Miami Frost School of music. I have been told that U.M. music school has one of the best drumming programs in the nation. My drum teacher, my band teacher at school, and my boss at church all went to the U.M. music school. I was wondering if you knew of any schools that had good drumming programs but also have the ability for students to double major because I do want to have a back up plan just incase being a drummer does not work out for me because face it, there are only so many drummers who will make it in the industry and there are even less players that can play to your ability. My last question is about preparing for a gig. I am in a band called Bullets Over Broadway (myspace.com/wearebulletsoverbroadway). We are currently recording and EP. I would like to know if you have any tips on preparing for a gig or practice session or recording session weather it be mentally or physically.
I would greatly appreciate it if you can answer my questions. I am sure you get many e-mails from drummers asking a zillion different questions and I am sure it gets very boring, but it would be great if you can answer my questions whenever you have a chance. Thank You so much Mr. Sucherman.
Sincerely,
Paul A. Garcia
------------------------
Hi Paul,
Reading is like anything---you have to work on it. Just be glad you don't have to deal with the melodic content but just the rhythmic values. There are only so many ways to notate rhythms. Especially basic ones (crazy polyrhytms notwithstanding). Put your time in, my man. I have no grand advice here. You and your teacher should focus on that aspect as you'll need that ability if you pursue music school. UM and North Texas Sate have reputable music schools and you can get general education there as well. An institution like Musicians Institute or Berklee (where I went) is solely music and offers nothing else. It's up to you were you want to go and what you want to do. Only you can answer that question!
As far as preparation goes.....be prepared! Know the material inside and out. Know the tempos of everything. And don't stress. No one dies if you make a mistake. Be early (or on time at the least) and have a good attitude. Make the other people happy that you are there. Have some confidence. And that's not to be confused with cockiness, by the way. I wish you the best of luck!
Thanks for your kind words on my MD Fest performance and the dvd. I hope the dvd helps to inspire and encourage you.
Good luck, and remember to have fun!
Todd
Hey Todd
I am about to embark on a sound mixer and wanted to know what a decent mixer thats not over the top for drums and what mics are best suited ,(oh yah and the clinic here in cowpie champain illinois was my first time) I think I want to have ur babies :D just kidding.YOUR KNEW LITTLE BUDDY JOE
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Hi Joe,
Well, I'm afraid I'm the wrong guy to ask about mixers. As well, I don't know what you are using it for, which changes everything.
However I can wholeheartedly recommend Audix microphones for drums. I've never been excited about mics in my life until I came across these babies. And the kicker is.....they are not that expensive. I would put them up against mics at twice the price. I use:
D2s for racks
D4s for floors
D6 for kick and gong drum
SCX-1 for hats
SCX25As for Over Heads
i5 for snare top and bottom
I'm in love with these mics.
I hope that helps! Good luck--
Todd
Hey Todd
I need A little advice. You see im doing this drumsolo type piece in my drum classes and sometime soon we will be recording it. Its my first time Recording so could u loan me some tips. Its not in a big time studio but im kinda nervous, so any tips?
Thanks Ryan
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Hi Ryan,
Don't be nervous. Be excited. Do the best you can. Play musically and put your heart into it. Have an idea or strong outline of what you want to play. Then go for it.
I wish you luck....and remember to have FUN while doing it!
Todd
Hi Todd..
I am good friends with Mike Gallus and Victor Salazar at the Drum Pad. I was so happy when Victor told me that he had a copy of your new DVD in the store. I spent most of that Saturday talking about each section and breaking down this and the next thing. Victor and I are both self proclaimed drum junkies and huge rock addicts.. (Type A OC) and were trying to out do each other as to where each lick came from during your "Thanks Mr. Smith" solo. It was amazing.
That was of course months and months ago but I just sat and watched both DVD all the way through again tonight because I get something new out of them each time I watch it. I have been playing over 35 years but life and (four amazing kids) have caused me to take a break from the drumming world while I stay home and raise my children.
My youngest is one year away from school and soon I will return to the thing I love the most...music and drumming. I can't explain enough how motivating and self inspiring your DVD and your playing is to me. "Stay up late for that thing!" Well...hum clock says 11:45 p.m. ...and I am up late listening to what inspires me and motivates me.
All my children listen to and love all kinds of music. My oldest boy Ian (after Ian Paice) is 11 and ready for me to teach him drums. My other three kids walk (well run) around the house with their own mp3 players and are just in heaven.
Music is everything to me...it is who I am and I wanted to thank you for your passion, your skill and your honesty about the power of music, arts and finding ones passion in life. I know that this time away has only made me want to play more than ever and each day I do more to get back to where I was before our children arrived. I think it is so important for them to see the love that I have and how it can affect ones life!
Todd, I hope you do a clinic someday at the Drum Pad so I can thank you in person. Mike tells me all the time about how great a guy you are and I can see it when you play..that is comes from the heart.
Sooo...thanks and by the way...I love your sticks!!
peace
pete jones
Aurora, IL
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Hi Pete,
Thanks for your beautiful note. I'm touched that you have enjoyed the DVD so much and found great inspiration from it. It makes me feel like my efforts were worthwhile and I give you my sincere thanks.
I've known Victor and Mike since the 80s and saw them both recently at our last Chicago area show. Great guys indeed. And Victor was the catalyst for me to do the DVD in the first place, so I'll always be grateful for his constant pestering!
I did a clinic at the Drum Pad back in '04, so I hope they have me back soon at some point. Again, I thank you for writing and sharing your thoughts with me. I hope you find continued inspiration and get back behind the kit, full force.
I wish you the best, Pete!
Take care,
Todd
Hi Todd!
Erik from Sweden here! I just got your DVD(late christmas present) and I must say that this was so educational and its a huge inspiration! The concept is great! The drums sound amazing! And with the cymbals, it's a perfect combination! To be honest I found my self pressing the pause button on the DVD player every 20 minutes or so to go down to my own Reference kit and play because I was so inspired!
And I want to ask you about your prototype ride. It's an amazing ride, but can you tell me more of what's specific about it? And how do you tune your snare drum?
I know that you do a lot of clinics in the states. but is it possible for you to do a clinic in Sweden?
Well anyway, the DVD rocked, and thank you for the inspiration!
// Erik
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Hey Erik,
Thanks for getting the DVD and letting me know that you are enjoying it. Thanks! On to your questions.
I get asked about that ride a lot and I really should know more about it. I just happened to pick up that "Prototype" from the Sabian office in LA a few years ago. It's a 20" with a raw bell and big hammer marks. It's got a defined "ping" but has a washy crashability, with a piercing bell. I just had Mark Love at Sabian make a few copies of it for me. I suppose anyone can contact Mark at Sabian and try to get a copy of the ride. As far as snare drum tuning, I have no one concept. It's all done by ear and done with what I'm going to use it for in mind. So it will differ in different situations, in different rooms, etc. There are so many variables. But I do it organically and not methodically, if that makes sense.
As far as clinics go, one has to be invited. I don't choose where I do clinics....I'm invited and than the dealer works with my companies (Pearl/Saban/Promark/Remo) and budgets are worked out. If there is a dealer in Sweden that wants me, and it warrants paying for airfare and hotel...I'd be thrilled to go there. But I haven't been invited yet. There's a great article on clinics that I was involved with in the American "DRUM!" Magazine---the March issue with Chris Adler on the cover. It's a great article that sheds light on the clinic process. It's worth picking up.
Thanks again Erik. I hope the DVD continues to inspire you to get behind your kit!
Cheers,
Todd
Todd,
I recently taped the "Styx" high def concert where you played with the Cleveland youth orchestra. I have never seen you play prior to that concert. I read the article on you from last years Modern Drummer; but I was amazed at how you keep the band moving all the time. Your cymbal work, especially with the china's is cool. Since watching that concert, which I believe was recorded in 2006, I have now become a fan of your drumming; and downloaded the current Styx songs, where you're playing. You have a gift my friend so keeping making great music.
Cheers,
Timmy Kerwin
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Hi Timmy,
Thanks for your kind note, and I'm glad you are enjoying my work! If I may suggest----my DVD "Methods and Mechanics" is the Motherlode. It's available direct from Altitudedigital.com and will ship right to your front door!
OK, Timmy. Hope you pick it up and thanks again for your note.
Take care!
Todd
Hello Todd,
Your Dvd is amazing. I have been playing drums for 30 years, and I think would take me 100 years to perform even the easiest exercise on your DVD??
I have a question regarding the 3m tape or band aids that you use on your fingers to protect your hands. I remember reading an article in Mondern Drummer you did where you actually mentioned the type of tape. I would like to purchase some for myself but I don’t know what type you used. Presently I use Attack drum Gloves, but I loose too much feeling in my fingers and cant feel the stick enough. Perhaps you could tell me the name of the tape and what store and where I can buy it from?
Thank you so much,
Ernie
---------------------
Hi Ernie,
Thanks for your kind words on the DVD and I'm so glad you're digging it. Thanks!
What I use in the digits is explained on the DVD in the Bonus "Day on the Road" section. It's 3M Active Strips ---the 1" size. Then I use 3M Active Tape as a second layer. The second layer of tape in not always necessary when I normally play but it is essential when I do a 2 hour show with Styx. These products should be available at any Walgreens, Target, CVS, Rite Aid, etc. By the way don't confuse 3M Active Strips with 3M Comfort strips. Those are 2 different animals! The Active Strips are water resistant, and that's what you want.
I hope that helps you out. I'm not a fan of gloves and I have no doubt that putting these strips on your possible blister spots will work wonders.
Thanks again and I wish you luck, Ernie!
Todd
Dear Todd S.,
I would like to start out by saying that you DVD is very impressive you have a great feel on the kit. I have many drum DVD's and always find myself going back to yours and just trying to get to a good dynamic feel that you have. I think that the thoughts that you put in the video were great as well most people do not give that kind of insight so I thank you for that knowledge for sure. So long story sort I think it was awesome and far and away the best instructional drum DVD I have bought or seen.
I have a question as to what you would do to prepare for an audition?
A band says ok its we would like you to come in and play for us, do you give yourself a certain amount of time from the ok to the time when you come in like a week? Say you are playing all originals do you sit down and write out all the music? How would you approach the kit with someone before you has already laid down the part, do you stick the fill given or try and add your own flare? Then what would you do when you get there, do you have them listen to a groove of your own to get an idea of where your feel is, do you walk in just play what they gave you shake hands and walk out? I like what you said about getting a hold of the lyrics and seeing the dynamics take shape
Sorry for the 50 question but I was just wondering what you would do to prepare yourself to be the best player you can be with the material you are given to do auditions to hopefully land a gig. After you have spent the time with the kit and figuring out a wide range of different approaches.
Thanks very much
Shawn Haraden
P.S. A how to run a great audition DVD would rock!!
-----------------------
Hi Shawn,
Thanks for your great compliments! I'm thrilled that you like the DVD so much and I appreciate you sharing your feedback with me. It's great to get feedback like yours, so thanks again!
You know, I've never really don a proper audition so I could never do a DVD on the topic but I might suggest what I might do in that type of situation. Depending on the amount of time I would learn the stuff cold, and memorize everything. If making charts helps you, then do so. I wouldn't use them in the audition room but just do it to help the memorization process. You'd then have to use your own musical judgment as to what you feel is essential in the tracks that were done before you and find little areas to do your own thing. You wanna show 'em who you are, but you don't want to go in changing the face of the music. I think it's OK to ask questions about what they're looking for and how much of the material they want "nailed like the CD." Just be calm, easy and breezy. One of the biggest parts of the audition is the personal compatibility. In other words, do these guys want you around all the time! Be prepared, be able to count off all the tunes in the right tempos, and know all the music. Be cool, shake hands, split, and wait for the phone call. That's all you can do.
I hope I've helped in some way and I wish you luck with your upcoming auditions/endeavors.
OK, man! Go nail it!
Cheers,
Todd
Thank You for all the wonderful pictures of your drums. I hope to soon be able to purchase your DVD but I just spent all my money on a used Yamaha set! It is pretty old but I love it so much. I hope to one day be able to have a technique as amazing as yours... with drums that can compliment. Thanks again for the beautiful pictures.
Jonathan
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Hey Jonathan,
Glad you are enjoying the "drum porn" pictures, as the slang goes. Hope you make some money with those old Yammies and then pick up the DVD. There's a "drum room tour" in the DVD. Actual live motion drum porn!
OK. Thanks for the note.
Cheers-
Todd
Hey, Todd …
First, mad props … you’re an amazing drummer / working musician. I love the Quakecam, that arrangement is brilliant & exhausting! Methods and Mechanics is one of my favorites along with JoJo’s Secret Weapons. It’s such a wonderful thing to see you making a living doing what you love to do, it obvious you worked long and hard to make it happen. Ok enough with the sentimental stuff.
1) I’ve got a 9 year old daughter that shows some genuine interest in playing drums along with an amazing voice; she did Mariah’s Vision of Love at the 3rd grade talent show and got a standing ovation (proud dad). Any tips on how to keep kids focused on consistent drum practice without making it like the dreaded Piano Lessons she goes to just so she can get voice lessons along with them?
2) I’ve recently purchased 3 Ludwig Black Beauty Snares. I’m going to have John Aldridge engrave them and I noticed you have one that he did for you. I’m looking for resources other than the snares he’s already done for ideas on what to have engraved. What inspired your design, or did John just surprise you? I’m going to photograph and archive his work on my snares; pretty cool chance to hang with such a great talent.
3) Your drum room is an engineering masterpiece, it’s crazy to read about the lengths you went to in order to play 24 x 7, a must in your line of work if you don’t want to be constantly driving to a studio at 2am? Now all the wife could gripe about would be if you remembered to turn the lights off, lol. What are the dimensions of the cubby holes your snares are displayed in?
I would love to raid your “hand-me-downs” you have so many beautiful snares, I love the C&C custom with the abalone finish it’s my favorite!
Hoping my next snare will be a Dunnett Titanium. I may have to get a second job to support my desires for my snare wall, LOL.
Take care and good luck with your future ventures.
Sincerely, Erik Reynolds.
Dallas, TX
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Hi Erik,
Thanks for your kind words and compliments! I'm happy you are enjoying the DVD---and thanks for picking it up. On to your questions......
Not having children at this point, I can't really give an expert's opinion on how to focus a child. Kids have a million more distractions these days. I suppose you have to nurture it and not force it. If she wants to, she'll play. You can be encouraging by sitting and listening to music together, watching DVDs and going out to hear live music. Things will then naturally take its course. For me, I always was in love with music and the drums and didn't want to do much else. That was MY experience. So it's hard for me to really give you much on this topic.
When John Aldridge did my Black Beauty and my NSMD drum, I just let him do his thing. He may have asked if I wanted the classic floral or scrolls---I don't really remember. But the guy is an artist and I'm sure he'll happily work with you to get exactly what you're looking for. He's the man. He takes his time doing his work so just be patient!
I'm not sure what the dimensions of the snare display are----they are actually just book cases from Ikea. I got the idea from Steve Maxwell from his amazing drum shop in Chicago. They fit 14" drums perfectly.
Any C&C Abalone or Dunnett Ti would be great additions to any collection! It IS a sickness.....so careful.
Thanks again for writing and I wish you the best!
Cheers,
Todd
Hi Todd!
I caught the Styx show (for the fourth time) in Vegas at the House of Blues. As always, I was totally blown away by the show and its intensity!
Do you do anything in particular, outside of the shows themselves, to build or maintain your stamina? Those shows are quite a workout with lots of heavy notes/parts.........you're a monster and now attend the shows to watch you play!!!!! Great job!
Love the DVD!!
Francisco
Douglas, AZ
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Hey Francisco,
Thanks for making it to the gig, getting the dvd, and for sharing your feedback with me!
There's not much I really do to stay is shape besides playing. I'm certainly no "health nut" but I've been better in recent years regarding food, sleep, etc. My wife and I are into the nintendo Wii thing so there's a bit of cardio going on there, but I'm not really the exorcise or jogging type.
I hope you continue to come to the gigs and have a good time.
Take care and thanks again!
Todd
Hey Todd,
I have been playing the drum set since 3rd or 4th grade and I am going to soon turn 17. In the last year or so I have been constantly behind my drum set, playing to Simon Philip's Solo DVD, Toto, Rush, and Styx. In the last month, I have been practicing hand coordination and the 16 essential drum rudiments and the ones mentioned in your inspirational DVD I got this December. Some of my drumming background includes my first performance in front of an audience for my 5th grade talent show. I was the first to go out and start the night out with a kick! I played to one of my favorite bands Rush, and the song Tom Sawyer. I also did play in my Jr. High Jazz band for 8th grade and had a blast with that. For high school, I regret not being more active in the band community, but now I am in the B drum line and hope to be in the A drum line for my senior year. Lastly, I found a fun group of friends to jam with every Wednesday and so far we have a couple songs and have a ton of fun playing music. My question to you is, what is the next step, or step I missed, to become a more well-rounded drummer to play more gigs and hopefully become professional?
I hope you come back to Arizona! Like the backstage footage on you DVD!
Thanks! And best wishes!
Matt Hernandez
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Hey Matt,
As I say in my DVD, "You have to put in the time while you're young. Long before life gets in the way of art." Frankly, I worked my ass off when I was in high school---and you should to if you want to do this for a living.
While you gave me some examples of what you've been up to there are some other things you can do too. Seek out a good private teacher or two. Work on your reading. Be more involved with your high school band----jazz band, orchestra, symphonic band, marching band, drum line, musicals, etc. Immerse yourself in the program. Being a professional musician is a serious thing, man! (Well, they still call it "playing." You're not digging a hole in 10 degree weather.) It should be fun but there IS work to do. Take direction, take criticism, and constantly learn. Listen to all different kinds of music.
Be passionate about it. Put your time in NOW before girlfriends, jobs, and other obligations eat away at your time.
I hope I've helped and I hope you continue to get good things out of the DVD.
Also, remember to have fun while working. Find joy in the process of improving!
I wish you the best--and keep playing!
Todd
Todd,
How's it going? Just wanted to say that you are a real inspiration to me and thank you for the great chops. Are you guys going to come back to Atlanta anytime soon as I missed the Verizon show, darn! BTW did you like our new amphitheater? I live 3 miles from there. I saw Rush there and I like the acoustics. I've seen clips of the DVD and I like it. I'm sending a pic of me and my set-up. Be cool and tell Tommy and the rest of the gang hey for me,
James Lennon
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Hey James,
Nice rig!
Yeah, we should be back to Atlanta this summer but not sure of which venue we will be playing. I like the new one (we did last summer) a lot. Nice dressing rooms too.
Hope you choose to pick up the DVD, James. It will ship right to your mailbox if you order it direct from "us" at Altitudedigital.com
Thanks and hope you can make the gig this summer.
Cheers,
Todd
Todd -
Todd
Love the DVD.....one question. Where did you get the shirt that has "Funny Funny Funny" written at the back of the shirt.
Thanks
Manny
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Hey Manny,
Thanks for getting the DVD.
The "Funny" T shirt is from a movie called "The Boondock Saints." It has the character, Rocco on the front. The "Funny! Funny! Funny!" was a memorable line of his from the movie. I'm friendly with the writer/director Troy Duffy and his wife and the shirt was a gift from them. It used to be available at Boondocksaints.com, but I think they have discontinued that one. It's a great movie and worth the rental if you haven't seen it. Troy just finished shooting the sequel, so I'm excited about that.
OK. Take care, Manny!
Todd
Dear Todd,
I don't want to take much of your time as I know you are a busy man. My name is Mark Warren. I just received my copy of your new DVD and I'm just loving it. The production value is excellent and your instruction, tips and philosophy about drumming is just a breath of fresh air.
I bought myself a present this past Christmas after I began taking drum lessons again. I bought a 5 piece Sonor 3007 all maple set and I'm like a kid again. I stopped playing when I got married at 23, started my job and family. Now I play for the sheer joy of making music again. It's been a good thing and I guess it is true you are never too old.... Thanks for the music and sharing your musical life with us all. I took my two teenagers to see you with Styx a couple of years ago here in Tulsa. Fantastic show! Believe me when I say, you have a whole new generation of music fans and that's always good.
I hope you don't mind me asking, but do you personally maintain your web site? Would you be open to letting me design you a new look? If you already have a web guy or gal, that's cool too as my intent is to not butt in where I'm not needed. I know it's a strange offer, but it's what I do along with being a professional photographer. The thing is, I'd do it free just because I like doing it and I think a personal web site for a professional such as yourself is so important. Again, I understand if you don't have any interest, but if you do, just drop me a line.
Thanks again, hope to hear from you.
Sincerely,
Mark Warren
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Hi Mark,
Thanks for getting the DVD and for your wonderful feedback. If it's inspiring you to get to the kit.....then great! That's the whole point! I hope it continues to get you back behind the kit and playing music.
Keep an eye out on the site here as I'm trying to put together a drum clinic with the folks at Drum World in Tulsa on April 8th. Hope we pull it off and hope you can come on down and say hello.
Your web pages look great and I appreciate you sending them on to me. I have my new team at Altitude Digital (the guys who did the DVD) on the case for a website revamping sometime this summer, but I really appreciate your kind offer!
OK, Mark. Hope to see you at this pending drum clinic in Tulsa.
Thanks again,
Todd
Hey Todd
h=Hows it goin! I saw Styx July 07 and august 08 (i got front row and im only 15!! ask larry if he remembers the 2, 15 year old lookin kids right infront of him ; ] ) best concerts ive been too hands down. ive sent you messages on myspace too but your probably too busy for that.
So i was at my guitar teachers christmas charity concert and ended up winning a drum set. ive never thought about playing the drums but now that i have a set i decided i would. i didnt know what to do about learning how to play though. I went online and talked to people and really didnt know what to do still. Then i remembered the DVD you made that i heard about last year and decided to look it up. There wasnt a single review that didnt say it was amazing! I decided that i am going to buy your DVD. I think it would be the correct action.
-Shaun Livingston
P.S.- Are there any plans for Styx making a new album anytime soon?
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Hi Shaun,
Congrats on the new kit. While my dvd is not a "learn how to play from scratch" type of thing, I think it would provide some good guidance and inspiration, hopeful. You might want to pick up a dvd or two for beginners to get your feet wet, so to speak.
Sadly, no plans for a new record right now. I hope we do one at some point but I don't call the shots around here!
Have fun with the new drums!
Cheers,
Todd
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Thanks to the band for rocking the house! You all enjoy whipping the crowd into a frenzy with your music and it shows. Front 2 rows are the place to be! I got one of Tommy's guitar picks from the lady standing next to me (she had more than one). She was taking pictures of Lawrence on her cell phone and he was asking me if they were coming out okay. She was one of the lady's that was up on stage dancing during your last encore. Thanks to Tommy who brought you over to the edge of the stage at the end to point me out to you. Your DVD has brought you an unexpected bonus.......I love your wife's voice. Now I have to get her CD. It was really cool being close enough to see what all the guitar players were doing on their instruments. They are all really excellent! Do you do anything special to keep your energy level up when you are playing night after night? I mean besides stopping at hamburger stands in Seattle? I appreciate the shout out and will be looking for Styx coming anywhere near Oregon in the future.
Mike B.
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Thanks, Mike--
I'm glad you had fun at the gig. Thanks for the kind words and I'm glad you dug some of the Taylor tracks. You can hear more and place an order at Taylormillsmusic.com---and we're looking to break ground on her 2nd record later in the year.
Don't do much than playing, my man. That's enough for me.
OK--thanks again!
Cheers,
Todd
