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In this episode, we’re honored to feature Ed Shea, a distinguished musician whose career spans from the Philadelphia soul scene to the stages of Broadway.

Highlights from the Episode:

* Early Musical Influences: Ed shares his initial fascination with music, sparked by the lively bands performing at his grandfather’s bar in Wildwood, New Jersey.

* Educational Journey: Attending North Catholic High School in Philadelphia, Ed was mentored by esteemed band director Tony Marchione, leading to his first theatrical experience with Do Re Mi.

* Mentorship and Development: The impact of Nick D’Amico, a leading Philadelphia show drummer, in honing Ed’s drumming skills and professional approach.

* Philadelphia Sound Era: Insights into recording at Sigma Sound Studios with legends like Gamble and Huff, contributing to the iconic “Philadelphia Sound” alongside artists such as the O’Jays and Teddy Pendergrass.

* Atlantic City Performances: Experiences from the peak of Atlantic City’s entertainment scene, including performances with luminaries like Sammy Davis Jr. and Tony Bennett.

* Broadway Transition: Ed’s move to New York City in the early ’90s, marking his Broadway debut and solidifying his reputation through tours like The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber.

* Sustaining Performance Excellence: Strategies for maintaining enthusiasm and precision in performances, and the camaraderie among Broadway musicians.

* Guidance for Aspiring Musicians: Practical advice on preparation, subbing, networking, and succeeding in the competitive Broadway environment.

* Adapting to Technological Advances: Navigating the integration of drum machines and evolving demands of contemporary drum compositions.

Memorable Anecdotes:

* Performing for Frank Sinatra at the Latin Casino at 25 and managing on-stage challenges.

* Bringing personal timpani to a Sigma Sound session, receiving support from producer Thom Bell.

* Mentoring emerging Broadway drummers, including Joe Nero, Taylor Simpson and Dan Berkery.

Ed reflects on his dynamic career, the music industry’s evolution, and the privilege of being part of Broadway’s vibrant community. He encourages perseverance, adaptability, and embracing the challenges of a musical career in New York City.

About Ed Shea

Ed Shea is a seasoned percussionist and drummer whose career began in the rich musical landscape of Philadelphia. A member of the American Federation of Musicians across multiple cities, including New York and Philadelphia, Ed has showcased his versatility across various platforms.

Broadway Contributions:

* Dream (1996)

* Peter Pan (1999–2000)

* Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me (2006)

* Newsies The Musical (2012–2014)

* Holiday Inn, The New Irving Berlin Musical (2016–2017)

He has also substituted in productions such as Cats, Phantom of the Opera, Grease, and Les Misérables.

Touring Experience:

* A Chorus Line (National Company, 1977; Japan Tour, 1986)

* Paul Anka East Coast Tour (1982)

* Debbie Reynolds Tour (1990)

* The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber (1991–1992)

* Jesus Christ Superstar (1994)

* South Pacific West Coast Tour (2002)

* Urinetown (2003–2004)

* Chicago (2006–2007)

Television Appearances:

* Miss America Pageant (1988–1991)

* Dick Clark’s Freedom Festival (1989)

* Merv Griffin's New Year's Eve (1990–1992)

* A&E’s Live by Request with Johnny Mathis (1997)

* PBS’s Wonderful, Wonderful with Johnny Mathis (2006)

Recording Collaborations:

Ed has recorded with labels such as Philadelphia International, Columbia, and Motown, working with artists including:

* Four Tops

* Spinners

* Temptations

* Patti LaBelle

* O'Jays

* Teddy Pendergrass

* Lou Rawls

* Stylistics

* James Ingram

* Deniece Williams

Film Contributions:

* The Fish That Saved Pittsburgh (1979)

* Staying Alive (1982)

* City Slickers (1991)

* Flirting with Disaster (1996)

Educational Background:

Ed studied at the Philadelphia Music Academy, graduating in 1972. He is also a professor of percussion at Seton Hall University, aiming to develop well-rounded percussionists and music educators.

🎧 Listen Now

Join us as Ed Shea shares his inspiring journey through the music industry. This episode offers valuable insights for musicians and enthusiasts alike.

Subscribe to Broadway Drumming 101 for more stories from master musicians like Ed!

Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, an in-depth online platform offering specialized mentorship and a carefully curated collection of resources tailored for aspiring and professional musicians.

Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include tick, tick…BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill, Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball, and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. As a skilled sub, he’s contributed his talents to Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. He has also appeared on major shows, including The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Borle, Norm Lewis, Deniece Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.

Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, Aquarian Drumheads, and Empire Ears in ear monitors.

Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com

Mike Dobson is a drummer, percussionist, and Foley artist who has spent over 20 years bringing stories to life with his unique combination of live music and sound effects.

With degrees from The Hartt School (B.M.) and The New School (M.M.), Mike has the training and the creativity to tackle any project. He co-wrote the offbeat production Room 17B and has worked with top directors like Tina Landau.

Mike’s journey started behind the drum kit, but his passion for sound grew during his early days performing in circus and clown shows. That’s where he learned how sound effects can create humor and enhance storytelling, lessons he’s carried throughout his career.

One of his standout roles was as the live Foley artist for The SpongeBob Musical. I first met him there and was able to work with him when subbing for Damien Bassman. He continued that role in The SpongeBob Musical Live On Stage, proving that sound can bring just as much personality to a show as the actors on stage.

He’s the drummer and percussionist for the Broadway show Water for Elephants, based on the bestselling novel. In this production, Mike doesn’t just play drums—he helps create the world of a traveling circus during the Great Depression and uses traditional percussion, found objects, and custom instruments.

Water for Elephants runs through December 8, 2024, so go see it before it ends!

For more: https://www.mikedobsonmusic.com/home

Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, an in-depth online platform offering specialized mentorship and a carefully curated collection of resources tailored for aspiring and professional musicians.

Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include tick, tick…BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill, Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball, and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. As a skilled sub, he’s contributed his talents to Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. He has also appeared on major shows, including The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Borle, Norm Lewis, Deniece Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.

Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, Aquarian Drumheads, and Empire Ears in ear monitors.

Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com

In 2021, I started this podcast with a clear goal: to give you a behind-the-scenes look at the lives and careers of Broadway drummers. Since then, we've hosted some truly remarkable guests who've shared their unique stories, experiences, and insights.

As our audience has grown, we've realized that many of you might have missed out on some of our most inspiring interviews. So, over the next year, we’re bringing back some of those classic, condensed episodes. Whether it’s your first time hearing them or you’re revisiting them, I hope they spark the same sense of inspiration.

But don’t worry, that’s not all—we’ve got some fresh, exciting episodes in the works and a few surprises along the way. Stay tuned because there’s plenty more coming your way!

Thanks for reading Broadway Drumming 101! This post is public so feel free to share it.

In this podcast, we hear about the career of legendary drummer Matt Vander Ende, who shares his fascinating journey from the West Coast music scene to the bright lights of Broadway. Known for his dynamic playing style, Matt takes us through his transition from rock and metal drumming into musical theater, where he ultimately landed one of Broadway’s most demanding drumming roles in Wicked.

Throughout the interview, Matt reveals:

* His musical upbringing was in Oakland, California, and he had early classical training at the San Francisco Conservatory. he has a diverse performance background spanning from school jazz bands to heavy metal tours with his band, Defiance.

* How he developed his versatile style, drawing influence from drumming legends like Steve Gadd, Vinnie Colaiuta, and Metallica’s Lars Ulrich, blending classical chops with rock intensity.

* His unexpected path into musical theater, starting with a recommendation to try drumming in local theater productions—a choice that paved the way to his long-running career on Broadway.

Matt’s detailed look at his role as the drummer for Wicked is a highlight of the conversation. He describes the intense demands of this iconic show, which requires the drummer to seamlessly switch between musical genres, from reggae and punk-inspired beats to classical and traditional Broadway rhythms—all while leading a large 23-piece orchestra.

Matt shares:

* What makes Wicked such a challenging and unique show to play, including the precise, genre-hopping drumming style it requires to drive the music and choreography.

* His experience mastering complex segments like the intense “No Good Deed,” which he describes as “Bartok meets Metallica”—an exhilarating, intricate piece that demands both technical precision and a heavy rock feel.

* The importance of consistency in Wicked, with Matt highlighting his methods for keeping each performance fresh, despite the rigorous routine, and the ways he managed physical strain and injury during his tenure.

Matt also gives valuable advice to aspiring Broadway drummers on the importance of discipline, professionalism, and learning a wide variety of musical styles. He emphasizes the necessity of playing each performance exactly as the regular drummer does, especially for subs, and offers insights on building relationships and working as part of a close-knit Broadway team.

For Broadway fans, drummers, and musicians alike, this episode is packed with stories, lessons, and insights from Matt’s extraordinary journey. Don’t miss his reflections on the highs and challenges of playing one of Broadway’s most iconic shows!

Tune in for an unforgettable conversation with Matt Vander Ende on Broadway Drumming 101.

Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, an in-depth online platform offering specialized mentorship and a carefully curated collection of resources tailored for aspiring and professional musicians.

Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include tick, tick…BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill, Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball, and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. As a skilled sub, he’s contributed his talents to Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. He has also appeared on major shows, including The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Borle, Norm Lewis, Deniece Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.

Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com

In this episode of Broadway Drumming 101, I enjoyed interviewing the legendary Cubby O'Brien. You may know him from his days as a Mouseketeer on The Mickey Mouse Club, but his drumming career goes way beyond that. We talk about his early start in music, following in the footsteps of his drummer father, and his work with some of the biggest names in the industry—Lawrence Welk, Bernadette Peters, the Carpenters, and more.

Cubby shares stories from his incredible journey through different eras of music, from the early influence of The Beatles and playing alongside icons like Steve Gadd. We dive into his Broadway experiences, where he brings his unique energy to every performance, and his thoughts on teaching and adapting to the ever-changing world of music. Whether you're a fan of musical history, a drummer, or just curious about what it takes to build a long-lasting career, this episode is packed with insights and memories you won’t want to miss.

Tune in to hear about his collaborations with legends like Shirley MacLaine and Nathan Lane and his work on Tony Award-winning shows—it’s a deep dive into a life well lived!

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:16 Chance Encounter on Broadway Cruise

00:57 Sports Talk: Cowboys and Dodgers

02:49 Cubby's Early Drumming Influences

04:48 The Mickey Mouse Club and Early Career

10:10 Transition to Studio Work and Variety Shows

15:18 Working with the Carpenters

18:43 Electronic Drums and Siegfried & Roy

21:08 Collaborations with Bernadette Peters

26:32 Learning the Drums: Insights from Jack Sperling

27:13 Meeting Susan Stroman and the Producers Journey

28:52 The Creative Process with Mel Brooks

29:47 Challenges of Repetition in Broadway Shows

31:30 Selecting Dependable Substitutes

34:44 Transitioning to Gypsy and Working with Marvin Laird

36:23 The Joy of Live Performances

39:00 Maintaining Longevity and Avoiding Injuries

42:41 Choosing Eugene, Oregon

44:03 Advice for Aspiring Musicians

44:38 Memories with Shirley MacLaine

47:01 Appreciation from Fellow Musicians

48:04 Preferences in Drum Kits

53:05 Top Five Favorite Drummers

54:27 Concluding Remarks and Future Plans

Carl "Cubby" O'Brien, born July 14, 1946, in Sun Valley, California, is an accomplished American drummer and former child actor, best known as one of the original Mouseketeers on The Mickey Mouse Club (1955–1958). Discovered by Disney talent scouts at a Screen Actors Guild benefit in 1954, Cubby became the youngest male to audition for the show, securing his spot after a simple yet memorable rendition of "Happy Birthday." After his time with Disney, Cubby pursued his true passion for drumming, performing with bands around Los Angeles, including a two-year stint with Spike Jones, which opened doors to major acts. He went on to work with legendary artists such as Ann-Margret, Shirley MacLaine, and Diana Ross, and spent ten years touring with The Carpenters after meeting them on The Carol Burnett Show.

Cubby’s prolific career extends to Broadway and television, with notable performances in productions such as West Side Story, Hair, The Producers, and Gypsy. He has also lent his drumming talents to movie soundtracks, including Grease, Change of Habit, and Gypsy. In addition to his extensive stage and screen credits, Cubby has played drums for Siegfried and Roy in Las Vegas and continues to perform in the Broadway production of Chicago. Throughout his career, he has worked with an array of stars, from Bernadette Peters to Steve Lawrence & Eydie Gorme, and remains a respected figure in the music industry. Cubby resides with his wife, a University of Oregon graduate who recently relocated from New York.

Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, a comprehensive online platform that provides specialized mentorship and a meticulously curated collection of resources.

Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include tick, tick...BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day At Emerson's Bar and Grill, and Ain't Too Proud - The Life And Times Of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. He has subbed for shows like Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, Spongebob Squarepants - The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. Clayton has appeared on The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Boyle, Norm Lewis, Denise Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.

Clayton is a proud endorser of Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

For more about Clayton Craddock, click here: www.claytoncraddock.com

In this special episode of Broadway Drumming 101, host Clayton Craddock sits down with Andrés Forero and an incredible lineup of musicians currently subbing in Hamilton. Forero is joined by Alex Giosa, Juan Felipe Mayorga, Dena Tauriello, and Ryan McCausland as they discuss the unique challenges of being a sub in one of Broadway’s most complex and iconic shows.

FEATURING: @andresforeroofficial @denatauriello @juanfeniche@ryanmccauslanddrums @alexg_drums

Alex Giosa delivered some invaluable: "Don’t practice until you get it right—practice until you can’t get it wrong." He shared how this philosophy has shaped his approach to preparing for Hamilton, where the level of perfection expected is incredibly high. Alex also spoke about how subbing has sharpened his ability to stay focused, ensuring that he’s in the zone and ready to perform flawlessly when he steps into the pit.

Ryan McCausland discussed the balance between acoustic and electronic drums in the show, particularly during the high-energy sections like Cabinet Battle 2. He stressed how important it is to adapt quickly to the feel of each instrument and the different dynamics it requires. Ryan also shared how maintaining professionalism and a positive attitude off-stage has been key to building a successful career as a sub.

Dena Tauriello, who also plays for Little Shop of Horrors, discussed the importance of honoring Andrés Forero’s original drum book. She meticulously studied his every note, fill, and dynamic choice, ensuring her performance stayed faithful to the original. Dena highlighted the mental and emotional stamina required to keep up with the demands of a show like Hamilton, where the intensity never lets up from start to finish.

Juan Felipe Mayorga shared his journey of preparation and adaptation, emphasizing the physical and mental endurance required to play this show night after night. Juan also reflected on the importance of the sense of community among subs—how they rely on each other for advice and support to ensure everyone is always at their best.

Andrés Forero, a TONY, GRAMMY, and EMMY award-winning drummer and percussionist, brings deep insight into his process and the importance of being prepared. Known for his work on Hamilton, In the Heights, and Bring It On!, Forero shares stories about his journey and the importance of paying it forward to the next generation of musicians.

This episode offers valuable lessons for anyone interested in Broadway drumming or understanding the behind-the-scenes demands of a hight profile musical.

Don’t miss out on this must-listen episode!

Support Broadway Drumming 101To continue producing high-quality content and sharing insights from the world of Broadway, we would appreciate your support. You can contribute through the following options:

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Stay tuned for more episodes, and don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for notifications on new content!

Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, a comprehensive online platform dedicated to providing specialized mentorship and a meticulously curated collection of resources.

Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include tick, tick...BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day At Emerson's Bar and Grill, and Ain't Too Proud - The Life And Times Of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. He has subbed for shows like Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, Spongebob Squarepants - The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. Clayton has appeared on The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Boyle, Norm Lewis, Denise Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.

Clayton is a proud endorser of Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

For more about Clayton Craddock, click here: www.claytoncraddock.com

CONNECT WITH ME ON MEETHOOK

Broadway Drumming 101 is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

In 2021, I started this podcast with a clear goal: to give you a behind-the-scenes look at the lives and careers of Broadway drummers. Since then, we've hosted some genuinely remarkable guests who've shared their unique stories, experiences, and insights.

As our audience has grown, we've realized that many of you might have missed out on some of our most inspiring interviews. So, over the next year, we’re bringing back some of those classic, condensed episodes. Whether it’s your first time hearing them or you’re revisiting them, I hope they spark the same sense of inspiration.

But don’t worry, that’s not all—we’ve got some fresh, exciting episodes in the works, along with a few surprises along the way. Stay tuned, because there’s plenty more coming your way!

Thanks for reading Broadway Drumming 101! This post is public so feel free to share it.

In this second episode of Broadway Drumming 101, I had the pleasure of talking with Damien Bassman. Damien is currently the drummer for Death Becomes Her on Broadway. Originally from Fairfax, Virginia, Damien holds a BM from the Cleveland Institute of Music, an MM and Performer's Residency Certificate from Carnegie Mellon University, and an Advanced Performer's Certificate from The Juilliard School.

Damien’s résumé is nothing short of impressive. Currently the drummer for the musical Death Becomes Her, he was a featured drum set soloist with the Tonkunstler Orchestra in Vienna and Italy and recorded with them on Leonard Bernstein’s Mass. He’s performed as a soloist and section percussionist/timpanist with the Cleveland Orchestra, the National Symphony, and the Columbus Symphony. Damien also created, arranged, and performed the hybrid percussion/drum set book for the hit musical Next to Normal. He designed the drum/percussion book for Hi-Fidelity and brought African and multi-percussion elements to The Color Purple. He’s also worked on Aida, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Legally Blonde, Nine, Grease, Fiddler on the Roof, and Caroline or Change, to name a few.

Damien also collaborated with Green Day on the Broadway adaptation of American Idiot and worked with Andrew Lippa, Nathan Lane, and Bebe Neuwirth on The Addams Family. More recently, he’s been the drummer for How to Dance in Ohio, Jagged Little Pill, Almost Famous, and SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical.

Damien’s versatility extends beyond Broadway. He’s served as the drummer for some of Broadway’s biggest stars, including Adam Pascal (Rent, School of Rock), Kristin Chenoweth (My Love Letter to Broadway), Kelli O’Hara (South Pacific, The Pajama Game), Jason Danieley (Curtains, Chicago), Julia Murney (Wicked, Lennon), and Michael Longoria (Jersey Boys).

This episode is packed with great stories and insights, and I can’t wait for you to hear it!

Clayton Craddock is the founder of Broadway Drumming 101, a comprehensive online platform dedicated to providing specialized mentorship and a meticulously curated collection of resources.

Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include: tick, tick...BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day At Emerson's Bar and Grill, and Ain't Too Proud - The Life And Times Of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. He has subbed for shows like Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, Spongebob Squarepants - The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. Clayton has appeared on The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Boyle, Norm Lewis, Denise Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.

Clayton is a proud endorser of Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

For more about Clayton Craddock, click here: www.claytoncraddock.com

CONNECT WITH ME ON MEETHOOK

In this episode of Broadway Drumming 101, host Clayton Craddock chats with Ryan McCausland, a drummer who made his way from Southern New Jersey to the heart of the New York drumming scene. Ryan talks about his early influences, the importance of being kind, and the ups and downs of making it as a professional musician.

He also shares stories from his time playing on Broadway and touring with hit shows like Dear Evan Hansen, Mamma Mia!, and Dirty Dancing. Ryan offers practical advice about how to stay healthy as a drummer, especially when it comes to avoiding injuries. This episode is packed with personal stories, tips for musicians, and a behind-the-scenes look at the life of a Broadway drummer.

Whether you're an aspiring drummer or just love Broadway, this episode gives you an inside view of the challenges and rewards of a music career.

Episode Breakdown:

00:00: Introduction and Welcome

00:48: Growing Up and Family Background

02:12: Early Musical Experiences

03:48: High School Dreams of Broadway

08:04: College and Musical Influences

12:20: Playing on Cruise Ships

16:15: Touring with Dirty Dancing

20:23: Landing the Dear Evan Hansen Tour

28:51: Dealing with Imposter Syndrome on Broadway

29:31: Life on the Dear Evan Hansen Tour

30:15: Moving Between Different Shows

32:09: How to Avoid Drumming Injuries

34:35: Staying Sane on Tour

38:05: Exploring Cities While Touring

39:32: Moving to New York for Broadway

42:43: Subbing on Broadway Shows

43:53: Playing with Orchestras

46:11: Getting Gigs with Wicked and Hamilton

51:37: Advice for Drummers Who Want to Play on Broadway

53:41: Favorite Drum Gear

56:22: Looking Back on a Career in Music

Tune in for a fun and insightful conversation!

On Saturday, September 6th, we’re releasing a new episode of the Broadway Drumming 101 Podcast featuring Ryan McCausland.

Ryan shares his thoughts on something that should be a given but isn’t always discussed: being kind. While we need to hone our drumming skills and stay competitive in a place like New York, our people skills are just as necessary. He recalls a moment during intermission at Wicked when a fellow musician commented on how kind he was, which got Ryan reflecting on how powerful kindness can be in building better relationships and work environments.

Kindness should be second nature, but Ryan reminds us it’s something worth practicing, just like drumming.

For more about Ryan: https://www.ryanmccausland.com

Clayton Craddock is the founder of Broadway Drumming 101, a comprehensive online platform dedicated to providing specialized mentorship and a meticulously curated collection of resources.

Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include: tick, tick...BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day At Emerson's Bar and Grill, and Ain't Too Proud - The Life And Times Of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. He has subbed for shows like Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, Spongebob Squarepants - The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. Clayton has appeared on The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Boyle, Norm Lewis, Denise Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.

Clayton is a proud endorser of Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

For more about Clayton Craddock, click here: www.claytoncraddock.com

CONNECT WITH ME ON MEETHOOK

Broadway Drumming 101 is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

In 2021, we started this podcast with a simple goal: to offer you an inside look into the lives and careers of Broadway drummers. Since then, we've hosted numerous incredibly talented guests who have shared their stories, experiences, and wisdom.

As our subscriber base has grown, we've realized that many of you may have missed some of our amazing interviews. That's why, over the next year, we'll revisit and repost some of our classic condensed interviews. This will allow you to revisit or discover these conversations, and we hope you'll get inspired.

But that's not all—we've got several exciting new podcasts and a few surprises up our sleeves! So stay tuned because there's plenty more to come.

In this first episode of Broadway Drumming 101, I had the pleasure of sitting with Bill Lanham, who shared his journey from Lindenhurst, Long Island, to becoming a master musician who has held several chairs on Broadway. Bill opens up about his early years, where his passion for drumming began in elementary school, and how his experiences in high school marching and jazz bands shaped his musical path.

We discuss Bill's college years, during which he balanced a computer science major with a music minor. We talk about how this combination influenced his career. Bill also shared about his time touring with the first national production of Les Misérables, the various shows he's been a part of on Broadway, and what it truly takes to succeed.

Bill shares valuable insights on the challenges of performing on Broadway and the importance of treating fellow musicians respectfully and offers advice for aspiring professional musicians in New York City.

Whether you're an aspiring drummer or just a fan of Broadway, Bill's story is sure to inspire and motivate. Tune in to learn from his extensive experience and hear his thoughts on maintaining passion, adapting to technological changes, and navigating the dynamics of the Broadway pit.

Episode Breakdown:

* 00:09 Bill's Early Life and Hometown

* 01:27 Starting the Drumming Journey

* 02:14 High School Musical Experiences

* 03:36 Musical Influences and Bands

* 08:23 College Life and Musical Pursuits

* 14:34 First Teaching Experiences

* 16:44 Transition to Broadway and Touring

* 26:48 Reflecting on Broadway Experiences

* 27:49 Maintaining Passion and Gratitude

* 31:59 Challenges and Changes in Technology

* 34:37 Subbing and New Opportunities

* 44:45 Navigating Broadway Pit Etiquette

* 52:04 Balancing Music and Technology

* 55:15 Career Reflections and Advice

Clayton Craddock is the founder of Broadway Drumming 101, a comprehensive online platform dedicated to providing specialized mentorship and a meticulously curated collection of resources.

Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include: tick, tick...BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day At Emerson's Bar and Grill, and Ain't Too Proud - The Life And Times Of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. He has subbed for shows like Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, Spongebob Squarepants - The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. Clayton has appeared on The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Boyle, Norm Lewis, Denise Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.

Clayton is a proud endorser of Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

For more about Clayton Craddock, click here: www.claytoncraddock.com

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In this episode of Broadway Drumming 101, I sit down with the incredibly talented Skyler Fortgang, the drummer for The Great Gatsby on Broadway. We dive deep into his journey from early drumming experiences to landing a coveted spot in the Broadway scene.

Highlights from the Episode:

* First Impressions: Hear about when Skyler took a lesson with me and immediately blew me away with his drumming skills.

* Broadway Breakthrough: Learn how Skyler connected with The Great Gatsby through his work with Chris Jago and how subbing on Paradise Square opened doors for him.

* Mentorship and Connections: Discover how Sean McDaniel became a pivotal mentor for Skyler, guiding him through critical stages of his career.

* Musical Evolution: Skyler shares how his playing style evolved under Sean McDaniel’s mentorship, focusing on less-is-more techniques and the importance of sound quality.

* Early Inspirations: Find out how Guitar Hero and lessons from Rudy Bird (Lauryn Hill’s drummer) sparked Skyler’s passion for drumming.

* Navigating New York: Skyler offers invaluable advice for musicians planning to move to New York, including saving money, committing fully to the journey, and the importance of networking.

* Drumming Challenges: Skyler talks about the physical challenges of drumming, from dealing with tendonitis to adjusting to different setups in Broadway pits.

* Career Highlights: Skyler reflects on his subbing experiences on Broadway, including working on Strange Loop and Titanic, and how those roles prepared him for The Great Gatsby.

Skyler also provides insights into his equipment preferences, advice for aspiring drummers on preparing for subbing gigs, and how he balances his Broadway career with other musical projects.

Connect with Skyler:

* Instagram: @SkylerFortGang.music

Tune in to get an inside look at the life of a rising Broadway drummer and gain tips on breaking into the scene yourself!

Clayton Craddock is the founder of Broadway Drumming 101, a comprehensive online platform dedicated to providing specialized mentorship and a meticulously curated collection of resources.

Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include: tick, tick...BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day At Emerson's Bar and Grill, and Ain't Too Proud - The Life And Times Of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. He has subbed for shows like Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, Spongebob Squarepants - The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. Clayton has appeared on The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Boyle, Norm Lewis, Denise Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.

Clayton is a proud endorser of Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

For more about Clayton Craddock, click here: www.claytoncraddock.com

CONNECT WITH ME ON MEETHOOK!