Articles
The articles below are offered as free downloads.
‘Preparing for Music School Success’
(from Michigan Music Conference 2019)
Swingin’ Transitions – JazzEd Magazine
“It is safe to say that all of us have either listened to or played in a young jazz group and that we are well aware of that awkward point in the music…when the drum-fill transition approaches and the very excited drummer either rushes, drags, freezes or plays something completely inappropriate. I cringe when I hear this because I know that with a little practical coaching the drummer could sound much more confident and provide a smoother transition…”
Dream Big (part 1)
“Have you ever thought about what you would do with your life if success were guaranteed? What really excites you and energizes you? Think about that…because most of us don’t think about that! For many of us, music is that thing that excites us and gets our blood flowing. Pursuing a career in music can be exciting and frightening at the same time, but if it is your passion and you are good at it, why not go for it?”
It’s All About People
“No matter where you are or where you go, you will find people. Learning how to communicate and interact with others is a vital part of life. Many times you will be around people that are, for the most part, pleasant and easy to work with. But every once in a while…”
New Beginnings
“With each new year, brings an opportunity for new beginnings. I always like to set a lot of goals at the beginning of the year, but as the months pass on, I find that many of these are forgotten. So, as the years have passed, I have learned more about myself and what I can do realistically to create positive lasting change in my life.
One thing I have learned is…”
Find a Mentor
“Over the years, I have learned the importance of having mentors. I try to encourage everyone, no matter what stage of their life or career to find a mentor. A mentor can be someone who is successful in your line of work or in an area in which you want to improve. A mentor can act as a sounding board and provide counsel for your ideas. We all need someone in our life who will…”
Summer Drum Intensive – DownBeat Magazine
“Though the camp is geared around drum technique, Hall explained that it also places a special emphasis on musicality as a whole. ‘We talk about form, melody, playing with clarity, serving the song, interaction with the dence and having fun,’ Hall said…”
The Language of the Drums – Kalamazoo Gazette
“The Western Michigan University multi-purpose room was ringed with 30 drummers and drum sets spaced about 1 to 2 feet apart. When the drummers played in unison—’spang-a-lang, spang-a-lang, spang- a-lang’—you could feel the notes in your chest. ‘Most of all, have fun,’ instructor Keith Hall said to the students. ‘And play with what?’ ‘Confidence!’ the students yelled…”
