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!
April 2009
Hi Todd,
I felt compelled to write this email because you have packed information into Methods and Mechanics that will help me to keep making a living playing drums for the years to come! The ability to pay $30 for information that will help me to make years of salary is mind-boggling. I have been working as a drummer for about 3 years now in Nashville, and there are many great practical tidbits of advice that aren't directly related to physically playing the drums. It's wonderful to hear a good seasoned perspective! I'm thrilled that you have put together the most useful and practical drumming DVD
I have seen.
Regards,
Guy Lemon (Jason Meadows, Juliana Cole)
-----------------------------------
Hi Guy,
I'm really flattered by your feedback. Thanks! I'm glad you are getting good things out of my efforts, and it's my pleasure. Thanks for buying it, enjoying it, and sharing your thoughts with me. I wish you continued luck and success with your playing.
Take care and keep playing-
Todd
Hello Todd,
Perhaps sounds funny, and I'm sure you've heard this a million times from a million people, but you really inspire me to improve and re-learn drums. The first time I saw you play was on the Return To Paradise Concert video. You made me a Styx's fan for the first time in my live. Back then, and for an entire 6 months period, I had to watch that concert every day just to learn some of your licks. I loved how powerful but yet dynamic and stylish your playing was. Unfortunately I didn't follow up with the rest of your work like I should until now (Yeah I suck!).
A few months ago a friend of mine from Audix recommended me to get your DVD after he asked me who were my favorite drummers. In that conversation I mentioned a few names and at the end I said "Yeah, and that dude that plays with Styx too!". Your DVD changed my approach to drums over night, and I really mean it. I've been playing for about 14 years but now I'm starting to understand things that remain dark in my mind in terms of licks and fills. This DVD is now part of my daily practice and hopefully I can share the benefits of it with you in the future (You know Youtube.com and stuff). The only problem is that my wife is getting a little jealous of you now since I play the video every day, but that's ok (LOL). My youngest daughter (7 years old) likes to sit down and watch the video with me (She wants to be a drummer someday).
Anyway, thanks for been so great and help us get better. Thanks for been such an inspiration for professional musicians and hobbyist as well. Thanks for all the comments and jokes in the DVD, they are awesome. And thanks for reading this message too.
Regards
Eric Munoz
-----------------------
Hi Eric,
Thanks so much for your kind words----they are really appreciated. I'm happy that you're really enjoying the dvd and I hope it continues to inspire creativity in your playing and thinking. Glad you had that conversation with your friend from Audix!
If your interested at all in catching up on a few records I've done, these are a few of my favorite ones:
Taylor Mills-- Lullagoodbye (Taylormillsmusic.com)
Styx---Cyclorama
Styx--Big Band Theory
Brian Wilson--That Lucky Old Sun (CD and live DVD)
And any of the Falling Wallendas records if you can find them. (Self titled and the 2nd one, Belittle.)
Again, thanks for your compliments and I hope your playing soars to new heights!
Cheers,
Todd
Well Todd...
Glad you were able to come to Tulsa and put on the clinic. You did an amazing job at the kit, as usual. You words of encouragement meant so much to me and all the other drummers in the room. The young kids, and us older ones, were on the edge of our seats. Thanks for answering our questions, staying afterward to autograph everything and taking time to visit with everybody that wanted to chat. You truly are a giver and a teacher at heart. It was most appreciated by everyone. I picked up Taylor Mills CD, "Lullagoodbye". My wife and I just love her style and vocal range... oh, and your pretty good on it too. ;) Can't wait for the next CD? Hope you and Taylor collaborate again. Well, thanks for everything and for signing my copy of your DVD "Methods & Mechanics". A must have DVD, in my opinion, for everyone's library.
Take care and hope to see you again soon.
Mark Warren
-----------------------------
Hi Mark,
Thanks for making it to the clinic in Tulsa and I really appreciate your feedback. I'm happy you enjoyed the clinic. The time went fast there and I could have kept going on and on! What a cool drum shop--and everyone was really friendly and helpful. It was a great night from my perspective, and I'm glad you felt the same. Thanks again!
Taylor's record is really special to me and I'm glad you're digging it. We break ground on her second record in early May. It'll be a long process due to our crazy schedules so don't expect anything soon--but we'll be on our way to at least getting it off the ground.
Take care and thanks for writing--
Todd
Hey pal,
Thanks for coming to drum world in Tulsa last night and opening up to us about your world personally and professionally. My son and I loved learning and jamming with you. You are amazing. We bought your dvd and my son will tear into it in the days to come and i know it will be a blessing, just another wonderful tool in his journey. At what point from your student life to your professional life did you know you could and would make a living drumming. Did you have a plan or did it slowly work out the more you gigged and were a good steward. And one more question, who taught you about that life lesson about- 1-be on time, 2- have a good attitude 3- leave every one happy that worked with you. Thanks again!
---------------------------------------
Dear______,
Thanks for making it to the Tulsa clinic. I'm happy you and your son had a good time and I really appreciate your feedback.
To answer your questions: I've been playing professionally since the age of six. So it went hand in hand with my schooling. I never wanted to do anything else and it's all I've done really. I never "decided" to do this. As far as being on time and having a good attitude, well, my parents instilled that in me. As well it's just common sense---something many musicians lack. The ones that get ahead seem to have some common sense but you're in a sea of players who don't. Some simple things like that will give you an advantage, you know?
Thanks again for writing and I wish you and your son the best.
Cheers!
Todd
Hello Todd,
I had the pleasure of attending your clinic at Drum World in Tulsa Ok. WOW... you really blew me away. During the clinic I did not get to ask a question so here it is.
1st. Tuning... on the snare do you approach it like the toms or do you simply tighten it... a lot? How to you keep the snare strainer from rattling when it is off and still sound good when it is back on?
2nd. Obviously all the rudiments are essential. Do you feel that one above all others helps to strengthen the rest?
Hopefully I will get to see another clinic that you do. I was really impressed with your style. Meaning... you approached the drums as a whole. You mentioned that in drum competition you look for someone to blow you away or as you said shred you with a machine gun. Well you did just that. Bravo
Bravo.
Thanks
Craig Stewart, Tulsa Ok
-----------------------------
Hi Craig,
Thanks for your kind words and for making it to the clinic. On to your questions!
I tune the snare for what I'm going for, meaning, what am I playing? What type of music and what the situation is dictates what I'll do. But for the clinic I had the bottom head fairly tight and the top just a bit tighter than "medium." That's sort of all purpose in a way. But different drums want to "live" in certain tunings so there are so many factors that I can't give you a solid pat answer. As far as the rudiments go, I find them all important because they work together as a family. However, everything is really based on singles and doubles. So if you get those together, all the rest should fall into place. They are the foundation so to speak. Everything is based on singles and doubles. So that's my answer!
OK. Thanks again for your kind words and for dropping me a note.
Cheers,
Todd
Hi Todd,
My husband, Aaron, and I saw you and the guys over the weekend in Milwaukee. You played after an Admirals Hockey Game. After the second period, I was one of the Human Hockey Pucks representing the national health club chain, Anytime Fitness, in which they slingshot me across the ice with the goal of knocking down plastic, inflatable bowling pins. You'll be proud of me that I succeeded and was claimed the winner from the audience's applause and reaction. I was the proud winner of a box of Uncle Ben's Mexican Fiesta rice!!! :)
However, the real prize was your show afterwards. Our seats were on Lawrence's side and it was great to see him play. My husband, Aaron, is a very talented piano player and I am very much an amateur, so it was so cool to see his fingers moving up and down that keyboard. But, what was even cooler was getting to see you play. We had never had the privilege in the past 15 concerts I've seen you with Styx of seeing you at that angle. You and I have met a couple of times in the past at drum clinics and I was able to tell you that I think you are the best drummer I've ever seen and you humbly disagreed. But, Todd, I'm sorry to tell you this, but you are way wrong! You are the BEST DRUMMER in the world!!! The way you attack those things every night is just amazing! And with my career in the fitness world, one has to wonder how rock hard your biceps must be!!! :)
At the end of the show, you and the guys were throwing out the tote bags, beach balls, etc, to the crowd. You threw a couple drumsticks out to the crowd and then proceeded to our side of the stage where our seats were, you spotted me and indicated that you were going to throw a drumstick to me, you had a great throw, and I had an awesome catch!!! Again, 15+ concerts, 9 years as a fan (as I'm a fairly new Styx fan, well, hell, I'm only 29 years old!), and with that throw you have made a dream of mine come true. It might sound trivial and silly to some people, but to me, it means way more than anyone can ever imagine. So far that, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. As I told Aaron on the way home, if that's the last Styx show I ever see, I will die a very happy woman.
You rock!
Sincerely,
Jamie Hardt
------------------------------
Hi Jamie,
Thanks for sharing that story. I must congratulate you on your box of rice!
Seriously, I appreciate your compliments. I still humbly disagree but am flattered by your praise. That was a fun night overall and I'm happy that you went home with a stick. A cool night indeed.
Hope you can make it to another show soon!
Take care, Jamie
Todd
Hey Todd,
We saw the show last night and had a great time. Did you guys watch the game at all? After the show we went into the section behind your kit (to scope it out while it is taken down), man would I Have loved those seats. To actually get to watch you play a whole set from behind the kit would be amazing to me. Anyway….we heard your drum tech (Paulie?) talking with some of the crew about some @ss*ole who threw a beer bottle during come sail away and soaked you and your snare or something like that? What happened with that? Is your kit ok? I just thought WHY????? Unreal ehh? Anyway, we had a great time, and look forward to seeing you guys this summer with REO. By the way Paulie is super efficient tearing down your kit! I would love that job! LOL…. though our friends had no interest in it and left to brave the storm, my wife stood by my side as I got a glimpse on how it’s done! How nice is that?
Take care man,
Jeremy
Sheboygan, Wisconsin
---------------------------------
Hey Jeremy,
That was a fun night indeed, except for the moment when some drunk guy up and behind me lobbed a full 16 ounce cup of beer that exploded all over the kit and soaking me. What can you do? I just don't understand the concept of throwing things at performers. That aside it was a fun night. Paulie takes great care of me and the gear. He's been with me for seven years. It's cool you got to see him do his thing. He's the absolute best in the business.
Thanks again for your note and I hope you can make it to a show soon!
Take care, Jeremy
Todd
hi todd
i was wondering who did your front bassdrum heads on the pearl kit you are playing in the styx dvd. they appear to match the kit and they look great.
thanks
greg
------------------------
Hi Greg,
My bass drum heads were done by Head First. Rob Warner is the contact there. Their website was down for a while so I hope they are still in business! All info on my gear is on this website, and I talk about the gear at length in my DVD "Methods and Mechanics."
Cheers,
Todd
Hi Todd.
I am enjoying the DVD. You are one of my favorite players now. I really dig your style and originality.... I wanted to ask you.....I have been starting to grow as a session drummer around town here getting my name out, etc... I am grateful that I am playing music for a living. Most of my sessions have been local folks, but I recently did my first full album that will be nationally distributed. I am very excited as I see this as a new open door for my name to start getting out there. I wanted to ask you about making a session drummer "demo". Is this something I would need to send to other studios to get work or would it be a waste of time and money...(well I guess time I recently purchased a home studio) I'm really excited about all this and would like to "go about it right" thanks for all your help and inspiration! God Bless
Brian Jones
-----------------------
Hi Brian,
Thanks for getting the dvd and I'm glad you're enjoying it. I talk a little about this topic in the dvd (during the little fireside chat section) and you know, everyone's experience is different. I never got any gigs sending demos around. You miss all the shots you don't take so I'm not saying to not do it. My experience was that it did nothing for ME. But what advanced my career (always) was recommendations from other musicians. Nonetheless you should build your audio portfolio with examples you're proud of and it can't hurt to do some self promotion. There's no wrong or right way. (Well, of course the wrong way would be to be a pushy jerk.) Keep working, be patient, show up on time and have a good attitude. Get the job done quickly and correctly. Leave people happy. Those attributes will serve you well.
Congratulations on the record and I wish you growing and continued success!
Todd
Todd-
I just bought your DVD a few days ago and have only had a chance to watch a little of it. From what I have seen, it is very informative and I expect to learn a lot from it. Thank you. My question: In the October 2008 Modern Drummer article about you, it lists a set of 13” AAX Stage Hi-hats to your right. In some of the pictures in the article, however, it appears that you’ve instead got an upside down china and a smaller diameter top cymbal placed in a hi-hat manner. I believe I saw this in you DVD as well. Can you explain what cymbals you are using instead of the stage hi-hats lists?
Thanks
Doug
----------------------
Hi Doug,
Thanks for picking up the DVD and I hope you continue to check it out and enjoy it. I really only use the 13" Stage Hats on the road with Styx. In clinics and other situations (like the DVD) I use a "Trash Hat" combo of:
14" HHX Evolution Mini China (bottom)
12" HHX Evolution Splash (Top)
I've also used a 12"/10" combo as well.
Thanks for your question and I wish you luck with your playing!
Todd
Hey Todd,
It's Aaron from Milwaukee. My wife, Jamie, and I have had the pleasure of meeting you a few times over the years at clinics in Waukesha, WI. I wanted to give you a heads up about your gig on 3/28/09 after the Milwaukee Admirals hockey game. First, watch for Jamie on the ice with 8:00 minutes left in the 2nd period as she will be the "human hockey puck" for the evening! Second, be aware that they set the stage up so you perform to the ice instead of directly to the crowd. I'll be curious to know your thoughts of how the show went for the band!!!
Aaron
----------------
Hey Aaron,
I just answered Jamie's note. Glad you guys had fun and I'm sorry I missed her performance that night!
Hope you guys make it out to another gig soon.
Cheers,
Todd
Hey Todd,
Thanks so much for the broken timpani mallets in Anaheim. It means a lot that you remembered that I had asked previously, and saved a couple for me.
Also, it was good to see you and Taylor in Hollywood. You were obviously busy with friends, but Dayle and I had a nice conversation with Taylor about music in general and her album in particular. That
lady has quite the voice . . .
We're looking forward to Pancho's in April. Gotta get my Black Magic Woman fix, and perhaps even Son of a Preacher Man, if we're lucky.
Ken & Dayle
----------------------
Hey Ken (and Dayle),
You know, it was serendipitous---I have no recollection of you asking for mallets. I almost never break them and I broke two that night! Pure dumb luck.
Great to see you guys at Panchos. Hope you had fun. I sure did. I love that place and it's the thing I miss most about Los Angeles.
OK, guys. Hope you're both well and see you soon.
Cheers!
Todd
Hi Todd,
I’ve been playing the drums for the past 35 years now on & off. My problem is lately is when playing usually at hard faster tempos over a period of say 30mins or more my wrists have been freezing up forcing me into using more of my forearms to keep the tempo. I usually attempt to practice at least a few hours a week (depending on wife’s mood!). Is this something you’ve ever experienced or do you know if this is a common problem and could you recommend any remedies for this? I image there might be something on your dvd to help me and plan on ordering it. STYX is #1 !
Respectfully,
Tom Jagg (Tampa, Fl)
--------------------------------
Hi Tom,
Your question is a tough one. I have not experienced anything like you describe so I'm hesitant to make any suggestions---especially if you are in need of medical advice from a doctor, which could be the case.
Try taking your time warming up and stretching. (I do a bit of this in the bonus section of the DVD in the "Day on the road" segment.) You might need to have a 30 minute regiment of stretching and warming up before you even really play. That's all I can suggest and I'm sorry to hear you're going through this. A nightmare I imagine.
If this doesn't work I'd advise on seeking some therapeutic or medical counseling.
I wish you the best and hope for a happy outcome. Thanks for writing, Tom!
Todd
Hi Todd,
Picked up your DVD about a month ago and it's fantastic. I also took your recommendation and got the Jo Jo Mayer one too which is great. I've been working on the Moeller technique a lot. My question is simply this. When playing the Moeller triplet, are the second two hits all just rebound or are you actually doing those two strokes manually as well? I feel like I should have this down much better than I do by now as much as I've been practicing it but feel like I'm at a standstill and not improving. Also, is that your beautiful house and land shown in your video? If so which one? Thanks for your time.
Matt B
------------------
Hey Matt,
When learning this, you have to do the "Down, tap, up" thing manually. This teaches the motion slowed down. But when you speed up you are esentially controlling the rebound. You're not relying on the rebound, you know? It's sort of in-between. There is muscle movement for each stroke but it's slight and very economical if you know what I mean. It's not easy so be patient. I hope between my DVD and (certainly) Jojo's, you'll get it together. It'll fall into place.
I see no dates in Ohio this summer. I can tell you that it would not be our choice---your local promoter "passed" on us I'm guessing. That's life.
Thanks again for your note and for picking up "Methods and Mechanics." I wish you luck with your playing!
Todd
P.S. When is the Can't stop Rockin tour going to be near Columbus, OH?
hi todd,
Im carmine from italy, i buy your dvd.you are the number 1...i love your drumming, todd after watch your video i have a question fr you.....i have mastered the rudiments e moeller technique, now i want know in practice routine need play more rudiments or more moeller, can you help me i can play many hours i will want a good routine. from hearth thanks peace
---------------------
Hi Carmine,
Thanks for your note and for getting the DVD. The best thing I can suggest for you is to be organized with your practice routine. Plan out what you want to work on and for how long. This way you get the most out of your time. So whether you are working on hands, or solo ideas, or songs, you have your plan mapped out. Be focused and organized.
I hope that helps you in some way! And man, I hope I make it over to Italy one of these days. I'd love that.
Ciao!
Todd
Dear Todd,
Let me preface this with; I know you have a Sabian endorsement, so if there's any conflict of interest, forget this question.
Most professional drummers appear to use one brand of cymbals. While most companies make lower end sets of matching cymbals, how should one go about selecting unique pieces to make a set? Pro's like yourself, successfully use different styles within a manufacturer (e.g. Zildjian A Custom with K, etc) to create their own unique sound. Is there any reason not to combine different brands? I use all Zildjian, but I am wanting to purchase a new ride and have considered looking at other brands, such as Sabian. Please advise!!!!
BTW: I caught your One With Everything, STYX and the Cleveland Youth Orchestra performance on Palladia (VH1) last week, you guys rock!
Steve in Saint Helena, CA
------------------------------------
Hi Steve,
There's nothing stopping you (or anyone else) for mixing up different brands in one set up. Why would that make a difference? It only makes difference for endorsers obviously but drummers have been mixing brands of cymbals and drums forever. If that's your thing, why not? If you don't have a contractual issue, check out some Sabian stuff and add it to your Z's. Use your ears and find sounds that work together for YOU and the music you're playing. Follow your ears....they won't steer you wrong.
Thanks for the kind words and I wish you luck with the cymbal hunt.
Cheers,
Todd
Todd,
After playing drums for many years, I started taking formal lessons for the first time about a year ago. While I feel this has brought confidence and freshness to my playing, there were still many concepts my teacher was trying to get across that I was just not getting. After watching your Methods and Mechanics DVD, things have started to “click” and make so much more sense to me now. Are there any plans for a book to accompany the DVD?
I also got the One With Everything DVD. I hadn't listened to Styx in many years, but this has quickly become one of my favorite concert DVDs. The mix of great Styx classics along with the newer material, combined with your drumming and the Contemporary Youth Orchestra proved to be a winning combination. The song, One With Everything, belongs right up there with the Styx all time greats.
David in Louisiana
----------------------------
Hey David,
Thanks for your compliments. I'm really happy that some concepts in "Methods and Mechanics" resonated with you. I hope it continues to do so! No plans for a book although I've been asked several times about one. I've never been a big transcriber guy, so....well, we'll see but I wouldn't hold my breath. Hopefully your utilizing the printable PDF files in the DVD for the hands/pad examples.
Thanks again for sharing your feedback with me and I wish you the best with your playing.
Cheers,
Todd
Todd,
I was watching the Styx live DVD, "Return To Paradise" from 1996 and I noticed that you were sitting a lot lower at the drum kit than you do now.
Is my observation correct, and if so, what was the reason for the change? Also, your kit was a bit smaller and you had "hanging floor toms" instead of the more traditional floor toms with legs that you have now.
I was wondering what prompted you to add the other bass drum and expand the kit, as you did since the year 2000?
Thanks,
Robert
-----------------------
Hi Robert,
I suppose we all change and evolve over time. My seat is probably only slightly higher than I was back then but the toms were higher--so that might give the illusion of a lower seat. My 12" tom in '96 was 10" deep. My 12" since 2000 has been 8" deep so I can set all the toms a bit lower in the whole set up. As well, hanging floors was the rave and "style in those days." But I really prefer conventional floor toms in sound, looks, and for the ease factor. If one is an inch off--I just move that drum without moving both, tripods, or clamps. It's just plain easy and sounds better to me. My opinion only. As I say in my DVD, "I added the 2nd bass drum because I don't have to carry it." Though I jest, there is a bit of truth to that. I just like the look of the big kit for the big rock show.
Hope that answers your questions. Thanks for writing and take care,
Todd
Dear Todd,
Saw your clinic at Boise State. Loved it. I was the smart ass that said "WHAT?" when you asked if the snare was louder at a monster stick height or a ridiculous stick height. Bought your dvd. Am still loving it. Like Steve Smith, but leaning into it!
Here is my question. I know you like thicker maple shells on your kit. Have you ever tried the Pearl Reference shells? The Reference have different woods, thickness and bearing edges. I have to travel nine hours to try some. What is your take?
You Rock,
Phil Robinson
-----------------------
Hi Phil,
I've done several clinics on several different Reference kits. They are killer drums. I have the Reference bearing edge cut on my Masterworks. You can't loose with the Refs, so check them out by all means. Beautiful sounding drums.
Thanks for making it to the Boise clinic and for picking up the dvd--and I really appreciate the kind words!
Take care and I wish you luck with your playing.
Todd
Hi Todd,
I recently caught your performance with Styx and the Youth Orchestra on late night cable T.V. and I wanted to let you know how Inspired I was by your musicianship, talent and enthusiasm. I am a drummer and a father to a 17 year old dancer and a 14 year old guitar player and after seeing your performance I purchased your DVD and watched it together with the kids…….you are truly an inspiration to not only drummers but all musicians and performers the like, I wish you much continued success in everything you do and thanks for helping me continue giving the gift of music to my kids.
Sincerely,
Mike Cofone
-------------------------------
Hi Mike,
Thanks for your beautiful note. It's great to get feedback like that. I wish you and your family the best, and keep the arts an important part of your children's lives. That's fantastic indeed.
Thanks for writing, Mike!
Todd
Todd,
I played drums back in grade school and always keep a pair of old sticks. My 12 year old needed a pair for his school band and I dug them out and gave them to him and he seems to enjoy. Anyway to the point.. We were watching the TV the other night and saw Styx play with CYO and we were both completely blown away with your drumming.
That was really good music both from the point of the orchestra and Styx. I know you don't need the sunshine, but that was some awsome drumming. We recorded it and have since watched it again.
I don't have a question, just someone who enjoys good live music.
Regards,
Donald White
---------------------
Hi Donald,
Thanks for the compliments and I'm glad you guys enjoyed the CYO show. FYI, you can pick up the DVD of the whole 2 hour show from Amazon for less than 10 bucks (I think) and enjoy it over and over again......
Thanks for sharing your thoughts with me!
My best to you both,
Todd
Todd,
Great Show in Johnstown Last night. We drove up from Virginia to see you guys and as usual you were great! I ran into Lawrence in the elevator at the hotel and mentioned I was going to see if I could get the DVD signed. He said you were great about that and would if it worked out. He was right, but the darn Sharpie didn't cooperate! I just wanted to say thanks for coming over at the end of a long set and trying to sign last night. We really appreciate your effort. Thanks for the great DVD and take care.
Mike
-------------------
Hey Mike,
I remember you! Sorry the pen failed---I tried! But thanks for getting the DVD and for making it out to the gig. It's really appreciated.
Take care, until next time......
Todd
Hey Todd,
I'm Matt I'm 14 and from Youngstown, Ohio and I have been playing the drums since I was 2 years old and ever since then everyday I play drums. I've seen you and STYX 3 times and you were awesome. You are my favorite drummer and I'm even getting new drums to replica yours. Right now I play 1968 Ludwig Orange Mods and they sound awesome. I am even in a band and we are just starting up but we play STYX and Journey songs and we play for our school and sometimes party's and all the parents and sometimes the kids say I play exactly like you. Do you have any advise for me and my future in playing drums.
Your Friend,
Matt
---------------------------------------
Hi Matt,
Thanks for the kind words and for coming out to the shows.
If you want to peruse a career in music I suggest a few things. Get a teacher (or a couple) and study hard. Learn to have fun with the process of learning new concepts--and be focused and organized with your practice sessions. Get into some forms of jazz and jazz fusion. That's why I don't sound like "just a rock drummer." Check out Tony Williams with Miles Davis as well as his 1970s Lifetime stuff. Check out Elvin Jones with John Coltrane. Get interested in some different kinds of music. Go to a great website like Drummerworld.com where you can see videos of Steve Gadd, Peter Erskine, Steve Smith, Vinnie Colaiuta---and countless other greats. I also recommend picking up my DVD "Methods and Mechanics" if you don't have it already. I have lots of "I wish someone told me this when I was 14" type information in there. Seek out older more experienced musicians and listen to their advice. Be humble and learn. Get involved with your school's music program and learn to read at least drum notation.
Those are a few ideas off the top of my head. Oh, and hold on to those '68 Orange Mods. They are quite collectable. If you must sell them, sell them to someone who will appreciate them.
I wish you luck with your playing---and keep your head on straight!
Cheers,
Todd
Hey Todd,
I'm currently going to college for music education in a rural area in Pennsylvania. I'm Really from the town of Gettysburg (cannons/ war, you get the idea). I was wondering, being from a small area like that, how can I build a reputation with my drumming? How do I network and find ways to either get myself in the studio, or on the road to promote myself to try to find guys that I can gel with?
Hope to meet you someday,
Jake
----------------------------------------
Hi Jake,
I have thoughts on this topic in my DVD, "Methods and Mechanics" regarding some simple things you can do to accelerate your career. In my experience good things happened to me based on recommendations form other musicians. Some simple things you can do would be:
Always be on time.
Have a great attitude.
Be prepared.
Have the right gear for the job.
Leave the people who hired you and the other musicians happy.
If you wanna be a Broadway dancer, you have to live in New York. Right? If you want to record you have to be where that's done or make a name for yourself and then do remote recording from wherever you live. Not sure who many sessions take place in your area but that's something to consider.
I wish you luck with your studies and playing! Hope I've helped-
Todd
Thank you for responding personally I greatly appreciate it. Sorry about the name mixup with Patrick, probably a Freudian slip cause my name is Peter. If I locate him or get a contact number I will surely let you know. I wanted to ask you if you still had the Ayotte kit you were using with Styx about ten years ago (I love Ayotte drums). Also Stanbridge is no longer selling their hoops separately, is there any chance you could sweet talk them into a set. If I am being a pain in the ass just so no can do on the hoops. It's a bitch cause their hoops are very nice and worth every penny. I would gladly pay for a set. Your snare collection is sweet. I noticed you don't have any Brady or Spirit snares. What's your take on them. I have an Ayotte and a Bearing Edge which I like because I'm a wood hoop kinda player. I would love a Stanbridge, but their retail is kinda steep and I don't know anybody who sells them at a discount (they're never on e-bay). Either way thanks again for the response and whatever you can answer from my questions will be appreciated.
Enjoy the day,
thanks Peter Boyer
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Hi Peter,
My old Ayotte kit is in the possession of my good friend Randy Walker. As far as Stanbridge making hoops, I know he's only putting them on his own drums. But you can always shoot him an email---you miss all the shots you don't take, right? When you think about it 1 to 2K isn't that much to spend on a one of a kind "snare Stradivarius." His work is brilliant. Best wood hoops mankind has created by a mile. There's been a number of metal snare drums that out price Pete's work, so if you can swing it I'd highly recommend it. You won't be disappointed and you'll have a drum crafted for specifically for you. It'll be a conversation piece and your "go to" drum. Not bad for the price when you think it through.
I have a Brady Jarrah/Blackheart snare in my collection that's a great drum. I haven't had any experience with Spirit drums but have read that the shells crack easily. Again, I have no personal experience with them so I can't verify what I've read on the internet about them. (Apologies to Spirit if that's untrue.)
Thanks again for writing and I hope you find the gear you're looking for!
Cheers,
Todd
Hello Todd.
I’m watching the HD Palladia channel and watching you give another stunning display of creativity back in 2006 with the Cleveland Youth Orchestra and Chorus. As Mr. Kerwin stated in his letter, your drumming in this video is absolutely flawless. Now for the questions if you will please.
I seem to remember you and Styx playing the Jerry Lewis Labor Day telethon a few years back, am I right on that? If I’m not mistaken, you had the same kind of Pearl kit, as far as finish goes. I thought they were African Mahogany but your site list Bubinga inside and outside.
I’ve been playing for 30+ years now, and was wondering if you would have any advice for someone who has been playing a single kick pedal all that time and now wants to dabble with a double pedal. I would love to try some of the things you do.
What do you do to have such stamina (you just finished your ‘solo’ and Tommy introduced you!) to play so intensely and physically for so long?
And one more thing please - and don’t hurt me, but would you do me one favor please? I’m also a huge Buddy Rich fan as well, so would you please smile every now and then? Don’t get me wrong, I’ll never match your or Mr. Rich’s God given talent and am a lowly civil servant who plays my drums at church as a form of worship and stress relief. But even Mr. Rich would occasionally look out and smile at the people – I mean, just how many people can do what you do and do it so easily? Not many, in my humble opinion.
Okay, I taken up enough of your time, and I’ll be buying your DVD soon.
Take care and God bless (We need more Todd. Wow, there’s that awesome double pedal work again!!!!!),
Leonard (Lenny) Baker
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Hi Lenny,
Thanks for the kind words! On to your questions one by one.......
Neither myself or Styx ever played for Jerry Lewis's telethon. Not sure what you saw but it wasn't us (or me). My drum kits (for the exception of the year I was playing Ayotte) have always been Bubinga.
As far as double pedals go, treat them like another pair of hands. Get into it slowly and have patience. I really do recommend getting my DVD "Methods and Mechanics" as it has a whole double bass section featuring my concepts and playing examples on the subject. I try to use them as augmentation and not as a crutch, if that makes sense.
I do nothing but play as far as stamina goes. I'm not really a "workout guy."
If you are judging my lack of smiles during the CYO show, I can assure you that I smile much more regularly than was displayed on that particular night. That was a very hard night for me--trying to hold everything together. As well, I was treating it like a recording session and I was as serious as a heart attack---it was indeed a rewarding experience, but it was very hard on me. My face showed it.
I hope you do get the DVD. It really holds the answers to almost everyone's questions about me and my playing.
Thanks, and I wish you the best!
Todd
Hey Todd,
Just jammed to One With Everything, all you guys jam on it but we know who's drum track is just no words can describe it.........
I wish the band could fit it in when you come back around KY/OH area (freedom Hall in ky--Riverbend in OH and don't forget the horseshoes casino) I was the guy last year at the horseshoes casino show with boston that brought back a pair of Mike Portnoy sticks and the went MIA never made it to ya.
That show with Boston was just great. Anyway your chops are so clean without any slurring, I wish i had de time to get back that Hand Bass Hand triplet going around with one hand to each tom tom. Those runs sound so wicked you play in One With Everything. Hopefully my bro will get your drum DVD, I always get inspired to watch these kind of DVD's cause there are not many drummers around to jam with. You know when you can jam with another drummer, brings out something primal.
Oh if you ever get a chance and try the Rock band III drum kit on the PS3, you can play free style and I've found some interesting drum patterns that developed with the sounds and the "feel" of the kit. The Cymbal pack is pretty cool, it's great for my apt when i can't get to the house to jam on it with the real thing! It's a nice mental exercise playing rock band tracks when you play tracks as 16 notes are played with one hand instead of two, so you get that exercise in that multitasking we do when we're in that zone. Any Styx Tracks coming to Rock Band? I love playing the guitar parts to tracks and we all love Tommy's and Jame's guitar work.
Again anytime you guys could jam one with everything at a show, that would be just priceless. As always your passion always inspires me to keep in it and play side stick. I also hope to get a pair of your signature sticks. I think they were kinda like Neil Peart's version of his stick. I'm interested in trying them out.
Hava great day.
Jeff in Louisville, ky
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Hi Jeff,
Look for Styx to be included in Rock Band soon.
My sticks are actually very different from Mr. Peart's in size, length, and material. Specs are available at ProMark.com.
Thanks again, Jeff!
Cheers,
Todd
Hey Todd,
Is there any drum video footage of just John Panazzo? I would think the band and or friends would have something to compile together or post?
Thanks.
Hey we have tickets to the Belterra Casino Show 4.25.09 and My girlfriend is gonna see where my inspiration comes from seeing you Jam!
I can't wait, and so will you guys get to play a LONGER setlist hitting on the obscure tracks than more of the "hits"? Everybody wishes for back in the day when HITS didn't make a band, more like as Tommy said, you hear a "hit" and that would intice you to get the album and explore the band.
Thanks and "see" you at the gig. Glad a promoter "see's" the grand illusion of having you guys play there. The Stage is small, but just enough to gig. Foriengner Played at Belterra in i think it was august of '08.
Hava great day.
Jeff
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Hi Jeff,
I'm the wrong guy to ask about Panozzo footage. I haven't seen any.
We should play a longer set (as we usually do when we are by ourselves on the bill---and the promoter chooses the set length---not us!) But you know, you have hits, and you gotta play 'em. Period the end. You have to play the hits! That's what 98% of the audience paid to see. If you pull out obscure tracks that no one knows, you piss off 98% of the crowd to make 4 people in the front row happy. Not a good career call.
Nonetheless, hope you guys enjoy the upcoming gig.
Cheers!
Todd
