Customer Reviews

Mastering the Art of Brushes (Book & CD)

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I have really enjoyed this book. I have gained so much information I don't know where to begin. I have never been particularly skilled in the art of the brushes. However, after reading "Mastering the Arts of Brushes" and completing most of the 32 bursh patterns, my skills have really begun to develop. Additionally, I have seen my dexterity and coordination improve. The 10 essential concepts are key to understanding the way bushes are meant and can be used. I can now confidently incorporate brush strokes in my music.

Ok first of all, lemme start by saying that I have a huge drum library with the top selling books out there including ( Gary Chester's book, Gavin harrison's Rhythmic illusions/perspectives, Jim Chapin's book, Gary Chaffee...). I've been playing for quite a while. I wouldn't consider this book as a gold mine to say the least.
I really didn't like the author's method of explaining the basics of brush drumming, and it felt like you needed a video to really get what he's trying to teach you.

I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone who's starting with brushes.

Get Ed thigpen's sound of Brushes book instead.

I studied with Jon several years ago, so I know from firsthand experience that he truly is a brush master. He can do things with brushes that boggle your mind when seen up close. Fortunately, he has authored this fantastic book on the subject that thoroughly address the fundamentals. If you want to become a serious brush player - and any jazz musician MUST be a great brush player - then this is the book to get. Also check out his accompanying DVD "Brush Control" as a great supplement to the book. Seeing the patterns played visually is very important, as sometimes brush playing can be somewhat abstract to pick-up simply from a book.