by CongaTick » Mon Mar 07, 2005 12:56 pm
Things have been a bit tough, but throughout, my drums have been a strength and companion: Had to put our dog down Saturday, and he died in my arms as the vet put him to sleep. Our band is going through some major bumps in the road with personalities, etc. Been there before, but it's so damned draining. Throughout, I work my tumbaos each night, the metronome of my playing a force for order and fun in a universe seemingly colder each day. Last night's practice didn't go as well as I wanted. I'm always setting high goals for each session: a smoother/faster/crisper roll; a cleaner transition from one drum to the next; a new level of independence in my left hand; a breakthrough in timing my fills; a more cohesive solo. I get both depressed and inspired when I listened to the masters, but no matter how unsatisfied I am about my practice, I always come away with at least one accomplishment that helps me build to the next level. I'd been practicing tumbaos with my other hand to increase independence and last night pulled it off enough to play solid through 2 numbers... What a joy! Playing all patterns/ rhythms equally well with either hand is where I want to go! I'm on my way. And the drums get me through. Yeah, they do.