#DrumStudentTabloids: Egidijus Jonca

While our native languages cause the occasional blip in communication, it is the language of music that allows Ega and I to connect in the studio. Having never sat behind a drum set before, Ega came to me with an interest and a plan to develop his musical competence beginning with the rhythmic side ofContinue reading “#DrumStudentTabloids: Egidijus Jonca”

#DrumStudentTabloids: Neil Humphreys Goldenthal

It’s rare to come across a 14 year old that wants to learn Snarky Puppy songs and drum grooves in odd time signatures but rare is AWESOME at The Jon Ardito Drum School. Neil has been with me just over a month and we are having a blast. If you asked him, he’d call himselfContinue reading “#DrumStudentTabloids: Neil Humphreys Goldenthal”

#DrumStudentTabloids: Sylvia DeSantis

In February 2013, a driven lady came into my studio with a sincere hope that one day she could call herself a drummer. It is over 2 years from that day, and Sylvia DeSantis has met that goal amongst many others. Sometimes I can’t tell if she is my therapist or student, as plenty of our lessonsContinue reading “#DrumStudentTabloids: Sylvia DeSantis”

Drums Not Drugs

Rhythmic stimulation has a profound effect on the human state of mind. Drumming actually induces deep relaxation, lowers blood pressure, and reduces stress, but contrary to what the 60’s taught us, this enhanced state of mind is achieved without the use of mind-altering chemicals. A study by Barry Quinn, Ph.D. demonstrates that a brief drumming session can doubleContinue reading “Drums Not Drugs”

Drummers – Know The Room

Drummers are often discouraged when they can’t get their drums to sound good in the room they are normally kept in. To complicate the issue, they will most likely sound very different in other rooms you play them in. I recall buying a new sweet set of Pearls back in the day and spending manyContinue reading “Drummers – Know The Room”