Remembering the first time I played drums
The coordination was a lot to learn
Learning new ways to use fingers and thumbs
Looking deep inside, that was where I’d turn
Tapping on my desk like a singer hums
To become the next Buddy Rich, I’d yearn
Never learning a drum roll, I would fear
Mastering this technique took me a year…
-AAA 01/15/2024
Playing the skins is never quite easy
Much dexterity is required
That’s why drummers are never cheesy.
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They’re far more respected and admired
Despite the difficulty under which they play
At the end of the set they are often tired.
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Each time they play, it’s a different way
That’s how we create our licks
Practicing both night and day.
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Crafting ad libs and other tricks
In the arsenal of skills
Using two fine wooden sticks.
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The kits aren’t cheap and fetch high bills
Why many a drummer doesn’t have a set
Always keeping the beat with thrills.
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Leaving their best at each gig without regret
Pouring it all into every song
Strong forearms are the safest bet.
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Ask any percussionist if I’m wrong
Giving their all to preserve the beat
Sitting in back as the guitarists throng.
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Learning anew from all we meet
Ever expanding the repertoire
Until our skillsets are complete
Hauling our gear in a van or car…
-AAA 08/27/2024
(For Mr Milton Greg who taught me this word to help me subdivide my high school field show music)
“Rik-ah-tick-ah” is a word that emotes
When subdividing, percussion notes.
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It keeps me in time
And drum playing, sublime.
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It makes an interesting word in quotes…
-aaa
