Percussion Lessons In Person and Online
Media
Feel free to click through the various videos and written articles to see my concepts and teaching methods.
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Publications
Below is a sampling of my educational articles. These writings have been published in various forms such as print journals, print magazines, and online publications.
Real-Time Hearing by Phillip Smith - Published in Percussive Notes Magazine, the official journal of the Percussive Arts Society.
Abstract - Real-time hearing is the ability to accurately hear your performance while you are playing. Most of us have to develop this skill when we listen to ourselves on a recording, and playback doesn't sound anything like what we imagined it would while we were playing it.
Technical Headroom by Phillip Smith - Published in Percussive Notes Magazine, the official journal of the Percussive Arts Society.
Abstract - How much technique do you need to acquire to achieve your musical goals? In this article, I argue for building an amount of technique that is more than you will regularly need in order for your musical mind to execute its ideas without taxing your ability to perform.
The Benefits of an Old-School Approach by Phillip Smith - Published in Percussive Notes Magazine, the official journal of the Percussive Arts Society.
Abstract - When studying from method books, it's advisable to use definitive, time-tested books. These books have been proven over time to solve musical problems and have benefitted countless musicians. Critique newer books closely since most are derivatives of the definitive methods.
Averted LIstening by Phillip Smith - Published in Percussive Notes Magazine, the official journal of the Percussive Arts Society.
Abstract - When playing with a band, a click track, or music sequences, drummers often lose track of listening to themselves. This may lead to bad-sounding grooves and fills because it's very possible to be in time with a generated sound and still not be in time with yourself. This article teaches how to correctly proportion your listening so that all elements of your hearing and performance combine for maximum benefit.
Feathering the Bass Drum - The Art of Subtlety by Phillip Smith - Originally published in Modern Drummer Magazine and subsequently on the DVD, Steve Smith Drum Set Technique and the History of the US Beat by Hudson Music.
Abstract - The article addresses the challenging technique of feathering the bass drum in a jazz setting. It describes the technique, its usefulness, and has several exercises to help build this skill.
