Well, howdy there internet peeps and those with BPs
It's Troy again.
Well, another week, and another CD or two have fallen into my order cart on the big river store.
Louis: Neil Peart was referred to as "The Professor"
In the tribute documentary on his legacy, I learned that to pursue his craft farther, after already being an iconic drummer, he spent time training with a Jazz Drummer of reknown. I couldn't remember his name, so I asked the AI overlords:
Neil Peart trained with two primary jazz drummers who significantly influenced his technique:
Freddie Gruber and
Peter Erskine.
- Freddie Gruber: Peart began studying with Gruber in 1994 after being impressed by the improvement of drummer Steve Smith. Gruber helped Peart rebuild his technique from the ground up, incorporating jazz swing components and a more fluid sense of time into his rock playing.
- Peter Erskine: In 2007 (some sources cite 2008 for the performance impact), Peart studied with Erskine, a jazz-fusion drummer known for his work with Weather Report. Erskine focused on helping Peart improve his "chops and groove," specifically through metronome work and improvisation.
And, Peart was told by drummers like Red Hot Chili Peppers' Chad Smith: "You get the air drummers (at concerts)... How do you get the air drummers? I want the air drummers too!"
So, When the Professor of prog-rock drumming speaks with his sticks... one should pay attention.
Here's a good chance to practice your air drumming.
BTW: he called Chad Smith right after the show and said "I dropped my stick on Letterman"
Se if you can catch it. It's a blink and miss it moment.
