Drumroll Please!

November 01, 2012

One of the many celebrations in November is International Drum Month. The Percussion Marketing Council was formed in 1995. They came up with an advertising campaign to help appeal to a broader audience, and this November celebration is the end result. They promote drumming as "a positive experience that everyone can enjoy."

I, for one, have had a positive experience with drumming. My son was in his high school drumline. Our family attended many band and drumline competitions in those four years, and we thoroughly enjoyed them all. We sometimes drove long distances to watch these wonderful and stimulating performances. We helped transport, set up, and take down instruments and sets, and I helped sew costumes. We had fun meeting and getting to know other band member’s families, enjoyed cookouts before competitions, videotaped every performance, and endured a myriad of weather conditions. This positive experience has enabled my son to play drums, djembe, cajon, and other interesting percussion instruments even as an adult.

If you’re able to attend a drumline/band competition, do so! You will be impressed by the precision of the marching band and the movement of the drumline.  The indoor drumline competitions are invigorating with all the people, loud music, and intense competition. It will get your heart racing and your body moving.

Other ways to celebrate International Drum Month could include signing up for drum lessons, making drums out of cans with your kids/grandkids, checking out a CD by your favorite drummer, or giving money to your local school to support their music program. You can also check out this website for a coupon to get free drumsticks (while supplies last).

Here are some great resources for you and your percussionist:

• The Joy of Drumming by Tom Klower
• Rhythm & Beauty: The Art of Percussion by Rocky Maffit
• How to Play Drums by James Blades and Johnny Dean

Laurel B.
Lone Jack Branch