105 – Gary Chaffee: Developing your own patterns
In this podcast I talk to master clinician and educator, Gary Chaffee. Known for his work as an educator and clinician, Gary’s reputation proceeds him with his slew of well regarded students like Vinnie Colaiuta and Joey Kramer and critical acclaim from Dave Garibaldi, Ed Thigpen, and Jonathan Mover and countless others. His “Patterns” books (1, 2, 3 & 4) have been a staple in drum lessons throughout the world since the release of volumes 1 and 2 in the 1970’s. Gary’s book and teachings have been mimicked and copied all over the world (some legally and some illegally) because of the absolute diversity and value that they serve every drummer of every skill level. Listen in as Gary discusses a wealth of information that he’s gathered over his storied, 40+ year career. This session is JAM-PACKED with useful insights, advice and more!
“My biggest motivation? Just to keep challenging myself. I see life almost like one long University education that I never had. Everyday I’m learning something new.” – Richard Branson
In this session you’ll hear Gary Chaffee talk about:
- My open apology to Gary
- A brief history of how he got started playing music
- His clinic touring days throughout the world
- Teaching Vinnie Colaiuta
- His days at Berklee
- Developing his “Patterns” books
- His thoughts on people using his material without giving him credit
- Why he retired
- Why he “un-retired”
- 3 main areas of practice
- Much much more
Resources and Links mentioned:
- Contact Gary Chaffee: Website
- Gary’s “Patterns” Books
- Enzo Camino (no links found)
- Sandy Feldstein
- Donald Jenni
Books Mentioned
- Polyrhythmic Studies for Snare Drum
- The Solo Snare Drummer
- John Riley Books
- Ed Soph Books
- Accents and Rebounds
- Charley Wilcoxon’s Modern Rudimental Swing Solos
- Rhythmical Articulation
Music Mentioned