Search - Secret Weapons for the Modern Drummer DVD on DVD

Best technique dvd available

T. Stacy | Lawrence, KS | 08/13/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This DVD focuses on hand technique. It focuses not at all on drum set coordination, foot technique, beats, or "licks". Of course, if you master just some of the techniques he explains, particularly the Moeller technique and its variations, your ability to play beats (particularly jazz) and licks (particularly at breakneck speeds) will be greatly enhanced.



I think this is a great instructional video. The only competition of which I am aware in this particular niche are the Joe Morello technique DVDS. Morello's DVDs are wonderful and I recommend them, not the least because they have some of Morello's fantastic playing. But Mayer's DVD is even better than the Morello DVDs. The principal reason is that Mayer covers a broader range of techniques, ranging from the "free" or Gladstone stroke to the Moeller techniques and its variations to the one stroke roll. In addition, Mayer's explanations of each are as clear, detailed, and understandable as one could possibly want. Each technique is broken down into constituent elements, explained in depth, depicted both slowly and up to speed, and accompanied by recommended exercises for developing facility with the technique. There is enough practice material for years.



Mayer is a good person to present the material. He is not annoying or self-absorbed. He comes across as sincere, intelligent, knowledgeable, and concerned.



I was not familiar with Mayer before this DVD but am now a real fan. The segments in which he does some playing are a real treat. He is versatile, musical, and *incredibly* fast."

Teaches as well as he plays!

Billy R. Barton | Nashville, Tenn. | 07/27/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"After a 10 plus year hiatus from playing drums, when I came back I found the web was full or instructional videos and information. First thing I wanted to do was install a fresh set of chops! Google introduced me to Moeller Method, YouTube was where I first saw and heard JoJo Mayer. I did waste money on another Moeller Method video that you should avoid but the purchase of Weapons for the Modern Drummer is money well spent. JoJo is not only a drummer of the high caliber but an excellent teacher as well. There is a wealth of information on this DVD. All of it is well presented with great camera angles and well thought out examples. He shows all the different grips, and goes into detail on Moeller and Gladstone and finger control. His presentation is fresh, humorous and addresses not only the physical aspects of technique but the mental part also. It is all there! He has a great respect for the instrument and it shows. A previous review says this is not for beginners but I'm not sure I agree. I would have loved to had this information when I first started many many years ago. It would have solved many questions I had at the time."

Not much performance but great educational DVD

Petr Zemanek | Houston, TX | 07/21/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I've been playing for almost 20 years and seen a lot of instructional videos but I have never gathered as much info on hands as there is in this one. Jojo goes into great detail on the various techniques. His approach is very "scientific", breaking stuff down to the smalest nuances, explaining the physics behind it. You can finally start seeing what you've been doing wrong and how to improve it.

I hope he will do more DVDs, on feet etc. Highly recommended.

"

The BEST single DVD for hand techniques

NBO | Haslett, MI USA | 11/20/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"For most drummers, it begins with the hands. This DVD is packed with excellent technical details about how to go from the very beginnings, to stick fluency. These details are not only shown, but explained precisely and concisely. You also get to seem them demonstrated by a master. If I could recommend only one instructional DVD (and there are many excellent choices), this would be the one. I consider it a must have for any beginning drummer, regardless of playing style. I rate very few products with 5 stars, but this one clearly earned it."