Mel Bay You Can Teach Yourself Drums [Paperback]

James Morton (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: January 9, 1990

Drumming made accessible for the complete beginner! This easy to follow book teaches basic drum set percussion concepts progressively, so that is you stick with it, you will have a good foundation upon which to further build your musicianship. Four learning tracks are presented in the book: Technique- including the grip, sticking, and methods used to achieve musical sounds, as well as the principle of learning good habits from the beginning. Reading-basic reading principles are introduced in this book in logical sequence. Writing-By actually notating the rhythms you find challenging, you'll develop an increasingly intimate awareness of the note and rest values if which they are comprised. Application-after basic principles are introduced, you'll have the opportunity to apply them in musical context. An optional cassette or CD demonstrating the examples in the book is available.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

James Morton was born and raised in Houston, Texas. Having performed with several notable artists in the jazz and rock fields, he continues to perform in a variety of venues. He has written for Mel Bay Publications since 1980, and has over a dozen books to his credit. Through the years he has also contributed to Modern Drummer Magazine and other publications. He is currently working on a book about jazz drumming.

Product Details

• Paperback: 96 pages
• Publisher: Mel Bay Publications, Inc. (January 9, 1990)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1562220330
• ISBN-13: 978-1562220334
• Product Dimensions: 11.7 x 8.8 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 9.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #892,092 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Excellent for beginners, March 30, 2009

By 

Saiko (Seattle, WA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Mel Bay You Can Teach Yourself Drums (Paperback)

I have the standard drum book that my teacher recommended but this book is much easier to pick up and go with for beginners. If you have difficulty as I did transcribing drum notation into actual drum strokes that you play, this is a very good way to get going. The book also explains how "counting" works in a very clear way so it will clarify things like 1/8th note, 1/16th note and other jargon that could confuse beginners. The book is printed in a very clear , readable type and has some basic styles and fills that will keep you from getting bored. I use this as my go-to book when I'm tired of practicing rudiments and want to play something quick-and-fun. I wish the book had a couple of full songs (or at least one). That would push this into 5 star territory. All in all, worth the buy.