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Accents & Rebounds - By George Lawrence Stone
Accented Eighths - page 4 Rebound Control (for the Two Beat Roll)

John Georges
Feb 121 min read


The Drum Solo - Styles and Strategies for Musical Expression
Soloing on any instrument is often underemphasized in popular music and education. This is particularly true for percussionists. Many drum students approach soloing by entering the practice room and performing a completely free solo, playing without formal constraints for an unspecified length of time. While this type of practice can be enjoyable and may contribute to the development of technical facility, it does not adequately prepare students for the variety of musical sit

John Georges
Jan 232 min read


Master Your Musicianship: Practicing to Strengthen Your Weaknesses
Musicians, your greatest breakthrough starts by conquering your weakest point. Dedicate yourself to turning it into your strongest asset—that's how true mastery is born.

John Georges
Jan 171 min read


The Crucial Role of Daily Practice for Aspiring and Serious Musicians.
The Crucial Role of Daily Practice for Aspiring and Serious Musicians.

John Georges
Jan 21 min read


The Instrument is Always There
There is a profound truth in the idea that we can never truly be alone, for the musical instrument is always there, an ever-present companion to our inner world. Like a loyal friend, it holds the echoes of our thoughts, emotions, and memories, offering a silent yet expressive dialogue that transcends spoken language. In moments of solitude, the instrument becomes a mirror of our soul, reflecting both our vulnerability and our resilience. Through its silent presence, we are re

John Georges
Dec 24, 20251 min read


A Holiday Musical Reflection
Drum Lessons near me

John Georges
Dec 15, 20251 min read


RHYTHMN & METER PATTERNS by Gary Chaffee
EXERCISES BASED ON QUARTER NOTE FIGURES The Rhythm & Meter Patterns, book pages 16 & 17, have 28 exercises. The exercises focus on various combinations of quarter-note-based figures. I recommend using a medium (MF) stick height while practicing along with a metronome at approximately 60 BPM. This approach will help develop control, consistency, and independence between hands.

John Georges
Dec 4, 20251 min read


Thanksgiving Wishes
As we gather in gratitude, let us remember the Stoic truth that happiness resides not in external circumstances, but within our own minds and hearts. Embrace this moment with humility and strength, knowing that true fulfillment comes from virtue, resilience, and mindfulness. In the words of Marcus Aurelius, "The soul becomes dyed with the color of its thoughts." Let us choose thoughts of gratitude, compassion, and wisdom that enrich our lives and those around us. Reflecting o

John Georges
Nov 26, 20251 min read


The Path of Perseverance: Forging and Discovering Your Way
I will either discover the path, or forge it myself, for in perseverance and purpose, the way is made."

John Georges
Nov 2, 20251 min read


A Musician's Paradise
When you move to music, sing, and play along, you can feel its energy—it becomes a part of you. This is the musician's paradise, a world where the music and spirit truly connect. You are inside the song. **The Spiritual Uplift of Being Inside Music** Music has a profound way of touching our souls, elevating our spirits, and creating a sense of unity within ourselves and with others. When you move to music, sing along, or play an instrument, you're not just engaging with sound

John Georges
Oct 29, 20251 min read


Festina Lente: Balancing Practice and Speed.
Festina Lente is a Latin phrase that translates to "make haste slowly." True speed comes from careful, deliberate practice. When you habitually rush through your music practice, your ears become dulled, and your playing becomes sloppy. It's fine to test your progress with a quick, intense effort occasionally . However, allowing speed to develop naturally through careful, consistent nurturing—much like meticulously building a finely crafted racing car—is far more effective. Un

John Georges
Oct 29, 20251 min read


GOALS
WRITE THREE GOALS FOR THE NEXT WEEK, MONTH, AND YEAR. Developing and Articulating Clear goals for Personal and Professional Growth. An essential aspect of achieving meaningful progress involves the strategic setting of well-defined goals. Engage in a Collaborative Dialogue: Initiate a conversation with a trusted friend, mentor, or partner to discuss potential goals. This dialogue provides valuable perspective, accountability, and clarity. Define Specific Goals: Upon establish

John Georges
Sep 8, 20251 min read


Study Diligently!
To all my students and friends, heed this counsel: Study diligently, for mastery transforms you into a force to be reckoned with. Yet...

John Georges
Sep 5, 20251 min read


Charley Wilcoxon’s Modern Rudimental Swing Solos and The All-American Drummer: 150 Rudimental Solos
THREE CAMPS WITH A TRIPLET OSTINATO ON MY BASS DRUMS. Tapping into the versatility of classic method books and applying them to other...

John Georges
Sep 3, 20252 min read



John Georges
Aug 7, 20250 min read


A Reminiscence of Buddy Rich with a Broken Arm: A Feat of Magic
By Ed Shaughnessy - Drummer on the Tonight Show The word had gotten out from The New York grapevine, that Buddy Rich had been playing...

John Georges
Jun 24, 20252 min read


Echoes of Rhythm: Louis Bellson Reflects on Gene Krupa
GENE KRUPA Louis Bellson recounted a memorable moment in New York City. He was standing on a corner with Gene Krupa, deep in conversation, when suddenly a parade marched by. Among the performers was a snare drummer with an unbelievable left-hand technique, captivating everyone’s attention. Gene Krupa, known for his own incredible drumming, eagerly followed the parade. As the parade came to a stop, Gene approached one of the snare drummers and offered him five dollars in excha

John Georges
Jun 18, 20251 min read


The Drummer's Path: Embracing Adversity and Cultivating Resilience
In his haunting book Ghost Rider, drummer Neil Peart writes after the loss of his wife and daughter. He has been devastated by these...

John Georges
May 9, 20254 min read


A Refreshed Warm-up Sequence.
DRUM EMPOWERMENT! We have our habits. We have our practices. We have the way we like to do things, the things we like to eat, and the way...

John Georges
Apr 23, 20252 min read


A Higher World of Knowledge
"Music is the one incorporeal entrance into the higher world of knowledge which comprehends mankind, but mankind cannot comprehend"...

John Georges
Mar 26, 20251 min read
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