Melodic Drumming: What Do the Blues Sound Like on Drums?

Abstract

Why is it that parents dread the day their son or daughter tells them they want to play the drums? Why is it perceived as a non-musical experience? How can we change this perception? A core interest of mine is: how can melody be voiced on the drum-set? In my own drumming practice, I use melodic ideas as a central focus for compositional development. 'Melodic drumming' is a term I use to describe a style of drum-kit performance that facilitates creating melodic elements in performance and composition. I am currently undertaking research in which I am reflecting on my own experiences as a musician, exploring the historical roots of 'melodic drumming' and developing compositions which incorporate 'melodic drumming'. My research is focusing on the following questions: How can melody be voiced on the drum-set? What techniques are needed to realise 'melodic drumming'? What contribution will new compositions exploring 'melodic drumming' add to drum-kit repertoire? To what extent can compositions evolving 'melodic drumming' be inclusive of other instrumentalists? An important part of my research is examining the nature and role of improvisation in 'melodic drumming'.