If you walk past Hamilton on the Densmore side some time around 1pm or so on a school day, you’ll hear the school’s awesome Marimba players in their daily practice. That’s got to be, in my opinion, one of most uplifting sounds to hear (especially coming from a middle school!) and the kids really do one heck of a job.
If you’ve got a budding percussionist at home, The Drum Exchange (4501 Interlake Ave N) is hosting not one, but two free drumset and marimba workshops next Friday (9/2) with award-winning drummer Jane Boxall. These workshops are appropriate for youth (age 9+) and adults (all levels). Sponsored by Vic Firth & The Drum Exchange. Space is limited – call 206.545.3564 to register (free).
“Postmodern Beats” – 10:30AM to Noon. Award-winning drummer Jane Boxall digs deep into drumming technique and styles, from full-kit application of traditional drum rudiments to melodic drum kit playing, groove orchestration, double kick technique, and fusing styles from mambo to country to metal to disco. Jane’s drumming has been described as “most inventive” by Leeds Music Scene, and “lightning fast” by Tom Tom Magazine. Drum! magazine noted Jane’s “killer technique and inspired musicality.” This will be an interactive workshop-style class so please bring your drumsticks and a practice pad if you have one.
“Marimba from Zero to Eight Mallets” – 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Percussionists! When was the last time you saw a single person play marimba with 8 mallets at the same time? Let professional marimba player Jane Boxall show you how it works. Jane will play a piece with no mallets, a piece with one mallet, and so on up to an 8-mallet finale. Clinic attendees can perform with 2, 4, or more mallets and receive expert feedback from Jane. Topics covered will include marimba technique, grips for holding 1 to 4 mallets in each hand, and mallet choices. Stylistically, Jane will demonstrate everything from vintage ragtime to brand new compositions and improvisation.
