Over a year in the making, the much anticipated solo record by Virgil Donati arrived and has been creating buzz around musicians' circles since it's arrival. The album was produced, written and arranged by Donati, and mixed by Alex Argento, a close collaborator. Virgil’s drumming has arguably been at the leading edge for at least a decade, and as this record displays, his compositional and orchestration skills are also coming to the fore. Says Donati: “After all these years of playing, I still feel like I’ve barely scratched the surface!”
Read moreLarry Levine In Clinic
Internationally recognized drummer/educator Larry Levine was the guest artist at Rocky’s Music Studio in North Greenbush, NY, presenting a master class from his acclaimed, award-winning instructional series, Drum-i-Stix: From Pad to Performance.
Larry was warmly introduced to the audience by his former student ; Jason Bittner of Shadow’s Fall.
The innovative and creative percussion workshop was designed for all ages and skill levels.
Eager participants had the opportunity to learn coordination development, interpretations of various styles, and an understanding of how the rudiments are applied to the drum set. As an additional supplement, Larry did a very special presentation on drum corps and marching band techniques.
The sold-out audience interacted with many of the exercises Mr. Levine demonstrated, and a small group performed with the final marching ensemble.
Door prizes were awarded and attendees were treated to the presence of some of the most noted drummers from the upstate New York area. The event was supported by Yamaha Drums, Sabian Cymbals, Aquarian Drumheads, Regal Tip Drumsticks, KickPort Products, KMC Musicorps, SKB Cases, Mountain Rythym, HHot Hat, LT Lug Locks, J. A. Music, Not So Modern Drummer, The Percussive Arts Society, The Original Long Island Drum Center, KoSA, The Recording Academy, Drummers Collective, and DrumART LLC.
As a result of this successful clinic, Mr. Levine has been invited to conduct a full drum camp in association with Rocky Petrocelli, owner of Rocky’s Music Studio, and the Montessori School of Albany, NY. Additionally, Larry received his second commendation from the Recording Academy/Grammy association for "appreciation and recognition in supporting its mission to improve the environment for music, its education, advocacy, and human services.”