This thread puts a white hot spotlight on what's (IMO wrongly) most important to drummers, gear.
How many mechanics talk at such length about their wrenches?
It's a massive side track to the really important stuff.
I'd ask, how many styles of music can you play. (not referring to anyone in particular)
I mean I get it, I love gear too. I just had to say this.
Point well taken Larry. For me, this forum is all about education, and the discussion of gear is but one small facet of education.
Jesse James (master fabricator/welder/designer) opened up a whole new realm of possibilities for both veteran and younger fabricators
by sharing about the importance of vintage tools: the english wheel, yoder power hammer, blacksmithing, etc. The right tools in the right hands
unleash creativity. In the end, it's not so much the tool as it is what you personally create with it.
No other instrument can be so personalized and varied as drums. I think a lot of drummers struggle for years to find their sound--I know I did--until
they understand how to achieve that sound. That's part of the educational process.
I'm 50 "plus" years into this journey and I think one of the crucial things we can all offer here on this forum is a legacy of education across the board
regarding gear, technique, sound & tuning, recording, professionalism, the business side of music, ethics, etc.
Props to all the drum, cymbal and percussion manufacturers who help us achieve the elusive sound we're after.
Props to the members here who have and continue to educate me in so many areas.
Props to you Larry for your ongoing legacy here on this forum. Thanks for opening up the new thread on
How many styles of music can you play well?
and keeping us focused and balanced.