Worship Musician Magazine September 2020 | Page 128
DRUMS
LITTLE THINGS MEAN A LOT - “IT’S IN THE DETAILS” | Carl Albrecht
I remember reading about Steve Gadd (*search
for him on the web if you don’t know who
he is) being asked the question, “What one
thing makes a drummer great?” The writer
was looking for a simple magic formula to a
very complex skill. Steve’s answer was simple
yet profound. He said, “It’s all of it. All of the
training, practice, experience, etc. make a
musician who they are. There is no one thing.”
Bravo, Steve!
I’m no Steve Gadd, but I also hear this question
from drummers quite a bit. I also wish there was
an easy answer. But there isn’t. What’s probably
more challenging for the worship drummer is
that there’s the whole spiritual/ministry aspect
to what we do. Besides having the right gear for
the job, being skilled, prepared, and “practiced
up” we have to be spiritually in tune to do well
playing for worship.
As they say – “It’s in the details.” Often this
phrase is used in reference to success, but
let’s look at how that applies to being a worship
drummer. I’ve written many articles about all
of the things needed to increase your skill as
a musician. As I’ve reflected on years of tours,
sessions, teaching, and producing I’m more
sure than ever that the key to success is not
one-dimensional. It’s “all of it!” And often the
smallest details make the biggest difference.
Here’s a random list of “drumming principals”
that are small, but crucial details that you never
want to forget.
ARRIVE EARLIER THAN EVERYONE ELSE.
No matter what the gig may be the drummer
should always be there earlier than everyone
else. Sessions, tours, rehearsals, church
services… whatever… just get there an
hour before everyone else. At least an hour.
Even if you think your situation is simple and
repetitive give yourself time to settle in and
get comfortable. Check everything to be sure
you’re ready to go before everyone else shows
up. If you’re all set, go grab a cup of coffee and
relax.
REVIEW NEW MATERIAL AND PRACTICE AGAIN
WHAT YOU’VE ALREADY PRACTICED BEFORE.
I keep a pack of charts from every artist I
have ever worked with and bring their whole
collection with me on any job they call me
for… even though the current song list may not
contain all the songs. I’ve learned changes can
happen at any moment. I’ve often saved the
rest of the band from having to write out or find
charts for a last-minute change in the set list. If
there are no changes/ surprises, then practice
through the list on a pad backstage or mentally
go through the songs while playing “air-drums!”
Double your effort on the new material.
KEEP YOUR SPARE PARTS UP TO DATE.
This seems so mundane doesn’t it? For
example, I have run short on cymbal washers
and plastic cymbal stand sleeves on various
gigs because I did not restock my supply. I had
to use duct tape a couple of times because I
didn’t have the parts. At least I had duct tape.
This reminds me of why I always ask for two
snares on events where drums are provided,
and why I always carry my kick drum pedal
even if backline provides one with the kit. Also,
any cables, batteries, sticks, drum parts, etc.
you need… you should keep all of these items
in stock. Don’t depend on anyone else.
PLAY WITH YOUR BAND AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE.
This is a bit beyond your personal responsibility,
but lead the way if no one else is thinking of it.
Your band should play together as much as you
can. Besides services, gigs, etc. etc. Practice
once a week or more. I’ve talked to so many
worship leaders and music directors about the
problem of church bands not learning how to
jell as a team. I know we’re all busy, but if you
want to get better you have to work at it. Make
the time to do it. It’s a big deal to professional
groups. And so it should be as well for the
“weekend warriors.” It seems like a small detail,
but it makes a huge difference. Just do it!
This is just a short list of the little things that are
so important to your success as a drummer.
Start looking at your own situation and see if
there are some other things that you would add
to the list. You may realize there are some small
details to your work that really make a huge
difference. Add them to this list and make it
your own.
Carl Albrecht
Professional drummer for 30+ years, playing with
Paul Baloche, Don Moen, Ron Kenoly, Abe Laboriel,
LeAnn Rimes and others. He’s also a clinician,
author & pastor. Contact Carl for coaching, online
lessons, producing, or sessions. I’m still growing too..
www.CarlAlbrecht.com
[email protected]
128 September 2020
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