Boogsie Sharpe performs My Way

Boogsie Sharpe plays "My Way" According to the YouTube post: He is playing "on a swiss pan with a layout he never played before -- incredible!"

500th VIDEO!!!

Almost three years ago, I started this percussion video blog. I created this blog as a place for my students to watch quality performances of percussion music from around the world. I hope you enjoy watching these videos. Please leave comments so I know people are actually watching. If you have any recommendations, please forward them to me.

Three years ago, this was the first video I posted on the blog. The video video features Reg Kehoe & His Marimba Queens. This is a classic video from the 1940s. Make sure you watch the bass player!!

Thanks again for your support and here's to many more years of percussion videos!

Stevie Wonder performing Higher Ground

Stevie Wonder jams on his tune Higher Ground with Steve Gadd on drum set.

Khan Variations - Alejandro Vinao

Today's video features Setsuko Kutsuno performing Alejandro Vinao's Khan Variations. This performance was part of the 2009 Southern California Marimba Competition.

Empty School

This video/music composition features musicians playing on instruments in an around the school. It was shot on a Canon 7D and was filmed and written by Ben Meyers. Ben writes, "The leading melody is from a HUGE project I am working on right now, entitled "Wherever You Wander" so I hope it doesn't sound repetitive when you hear it in my next vid. This video took 1 month from the first notes written to the last shots edited."

Oblivion - Astor Piazzolla

The Ovale Trio (Mathieu Schneider - flute, Michel Zbinden - marimba, Baptiste Grand - vibes) performs Oblivion by Astor Piazzolla.

Ghatam - Karthick Solo

This video features the Ghatam, a South Indian percussion instrument that is use in Carnatic music. The finger/hand technique this performer show is truly amazing. Be sure to check out 4:04 to the end!!

Cryin - Len "Boogsie" Sharpe (Massive Band 2000)

This video features a concert I (yes a little self promotion, sorry...) directed in May, 2000 called Massive Band 2000. It featured 121 steel drummers on one stage. This video contains footage of the band playing Boogsie Sharpe's "Cryin."

Simon Rattle as Timpanist

This video proved that percussionists make great conductors! This video is from the opening of "Konzert für fünf" by Siegfried Matthus with Sir Simon Rattle, solo timpanist and conductor and the Berliner Philharmoniker. Watch the complete performance now.

New Drummer's Dream Film Trailer

Canadian film-maker John Walker presents his lastest documentary "A Drummer's Dream". A rare and unique assembly of some of the greatest drummers in the world. Explosive talent, passion, humour and irresistible personality come together in a magical setting when seven diverse drummers create a profound and unforgettable experience. You’ve never seen drummers like this before! Featuring Nasyr Abdul Al-Khabyyr, Dennis Chambers, Kenwood Dennard, Horacio “El-Negro” Hernadez, Giovanni Hidalgo, Mike Mangini and Raul Rekow. Thanks to Carlos Johnson for recommending this video.

A Drummer's Dream from John Walker on Vimeo.

Circle Atsia for Drumset

This video features a 2003 performance of Kevin O'Sullivan performing "Atsiã" that he orchestrated on drum set. According to Kevin, "Atsiã" was created by the Ewe-speaking people of Ghana. It is considered by many to be one of the oldest styles of music and dance among the Ewes. "Atsiã" is a social dance. In the Ewe language atsiã means "style" or "to display." "Atsiã" as a piece is comprised of drumming, dance and songs collectively.

To recreate Atsiã on the drum set I have assigned the parts traditionally played by different members of an Ewe drumming ensemble to the different limbs of my body. The role of Gankogui (a double bell) which is the time keeper in this music is played by my left foot. The role of Kidi (a small supporting drum) is played by my left hand. The role of Sogo (a supporting drum like kidi but larger) is played by my right foot. In a dialogue (a conversation between the lead drum and the supporting drums) I play the open notes with my left hand and the closed notes with my right foot. The role of Atsimevu (a tall, narrow drum which the lead drummer uses to communicate with the rest of the ensemble) is played by my right hand."

More videos from "This Drummer is at the Wrong Gig"

I am sure by now, everyone has seen "This Drummer is at the Wrong Gig", but have you seen his version of Wipe Out? It is amazing he can keep time and do all of his visuals. Enjoy!

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