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 Subscribe for Free...