Discussions in Percussion

Damon interviews Andy Tamulynas, the Category Manager of both Vic Firth and Zildjian drumsticks and mallets. They talk about how the sticks are made, packaged and shipped, how they are reducing their carbon footprint and more. Damon and Marcos talk about how NPR and PBS are saved from budget cuts, NoLa Jazz fest, Cinco de Mayo, the Kentucky Derby, Spotify, the failed Fyre Festival, the new Remo Bucket Drumheads and other music news. 

Damon interviews Sarah Hagan in Norwell MA at Zildjian Headquarters, Damon and Marcos talk music news, and wish Tito Puente a Happy Birthday, They also talk about the March for Science, the new Drem Trigger, how Beyonce is starting a scholarship, and they answer listener letters.

Damon and Marcos interview Valerie Naranjo. Talk about SNL, her role with the Lion King as well as her travels to Ghana to learn about the Gyil. They also talk about Coachella, the DIY Musician Conference, Kenny Aronoff's new book, a quick review of Reflexx practice pads and traveling to Cuba for music.

Damon and Marcos interview Dominique Thomas before he leaves for tour with John Legend. They talk about his influences (people & music), mentors, & gigs he's had. Dom talks about studying in Africa, preparing & auditioning as well as staying motivated with navigating challenges in the music industry. Damon and Marcos also talk about some percussionists on the scene today, music news, an iconic recording and a tribute to Kim Plainfield. 

Damon and Marcos interview Fausto Cuevas III who is the percussionist for J. Lo, Stevie Wonder, Britney Spears, Julio Iglesias, Queen Latifah and so many more. A special music business segment is an interview with Ari Herstand of the Blog Ari's Take. Damon and Marcos also do some music news, answer some questions and more. 

Damon and Marcos talk about essential apps for the working drummer/percussionist, Spotify news and interview Dr. Julie Hill. Julie is the chair of the department of music and percussion faculty of the University of Tennessee at Martin, past president of PAS and a member of the X4 Percussion Quartet and Caixa Percussion Trio and more!

Damon and Marcos interview multi-percussionist and cajon great Kassandra Kocoshis. They talk about her Flamenco background and transition from Chicago to L.A. They talk about the proposed budget cuts to the NEA/NEH and how to help out with trying to keep them from being eliminated. They talk about Chuck Berry, the Giovanni Hidalgo benefit this week, and some women's history.

Damon and Marcos interview Glenn Robertson & Rob Marino who are both Sargent First Class percussionists with the Army Field Band. They talk about the inauguration, musical careers in the military, as well as basic training. They talk music news, the Giovanni Hidalgo benefit concert, and why ATL might be the place to move to for music and the arts. 

Damon sits down and interviews Aaron Draper in Philly. They talk about the recent Grammys, as well as Aaron's musical background and previous gigs. Damon and Marcos talk about Women's History Month, Music News featuring Chance the Rapper, Gary Burton and the Grammy's Educator of the Year award. They also talk about the benefit for Giovanni Hidalgo in the Bronx coming up this month.

This week, Damon and Marcos talk about the Oscars, Mardi Gras, & Sergio Mendes, as well as other music news. Damon sits down with Scott Kettner. Scott is the founder of different musical groups with Brazilian influences, specifically the rhythm Maracatu. He also is starting a new World Drum Lesson online site, and hosting a spring Carnival Caravan Retreat in May.