Discussions in Percussion

Damon interviews the marimba master (and living legend) Leigh Howard Stevens and talk not only about his upbringing and adventures in growing up, but also how he acquired the Malletech brand (Mallets, Marimbas, Vibraphones and more) which also encompasses resonator records, Studio 4 Music, Keyboard Percussion Publications and more. Damon and Marcos also have a special RIP tribute to Leon "Ndugu" Chancler, a Grammy and Superbowl (music) recap, Educational spotlight, gig shoutout, product review, and music news.

Damon sits down with both Tony Miceli and David Friedman and talks about both of their upbringings, their careers, as well as how to get started improvising (or even creative ways to further your skills). There's a NAMM recap, some product reviews, a bit of a Grammy recap and music news along with an educational spotlight. 

Damon sits down with Roland and they talk about his upbringing, his approach to timpani playing and some of the gear he uses. He talks about his teachers, some of the tricks he uses in playing the music even some of the ways the orchestra keeps their repertoire interesting for the audience. There is a recap of Marcos' trip to Cuba, a teaser about Damon's trip to L.A., a Grammy teaser, and educational spotlight, two iconic recordings, a tribute to Hugh Masekela and music news.

Damon and Marcos interview Panamanian percussionist Renato Thoms. They talk about his upbringing in Panama and Costa Rica before his move to Boston, then NYC. They talk about the various tours and the artists he's worked with and so much more. There's also an iconic recording, an educational spotlight and music news. 

This week Kristen Gleeson-Prata is interviewed by Damon and Marcos. They talk about the new album and upcoming tour with Børns, her hybrid acoustic/electric kit, her upbringing through music and so much more. There's also an iconic recording, some upcoming festival shoutouts and music news!

Damon and Marcos talk to each other about upcoming festivals, read some listener letters, and get you set up for the New Year of 2018. There are some music business hints and tips and couple highlights of 2017 that can directly be applied to the start of this year. There is music news and a Grammy nomination review among other tidbits.

Damon and Marcos talk with Suz Paulinski and Cheryl Engelhardt about setting yourself up for 2018 with tools and tips to get your music career moving forward right away in the new year. They offer creative ways to make sure you can stay on track, and also implement their techniques with the greatest rate of success. There's an iconic recording, music news, and an educational spotlight. 

This episode, Damon and Marcos talk to Dr. Brian Zator about what PAS is (Percussive Arts Society), and does, and what it offers to percussionists. They also talk about what is coming up in the future and some details on the Rhythm Discovery Museum. They also talk about how he balances running a percussion studio at a University, home life with a wife and two kids, being on his kid's school board, volunteering at their church and even his past in the Cavaliers Drum Corps. They talk about his time in Japan and interactions with Keiko Abe and Minoru Miki. There is also some music news and some product reviews (even some last min holiday gift ideas). 

This episode, Damon and Marcos sit down and talk to Marc Quiñones about his youth, growing up in the Bronx, playing with everyone in the salsa scene, being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with the Allman Brothers, his influences, what he's practiced, and so much more. There's also an iconic recording, educational spotlight, music news and more!

Damon and Marcos talk with Neil Grover about performing with the Boston Pops, Boston Symphony, The Opera Company of Boston, Aerosmith, as well as popular John Williams film soundtracks. They talk about the company he founded and the products he produces at Grover Pro Percussion. There's much more to the interview as well as Festival updates, an educational spotlight and music news!