The Starting Line

Percussion students often run at the snare drum with different levels of skill. Solos that are challenging for stronger players are often unreachable for less experienced players. In The Starting Line, Joe Hobbs (Vandegrift High School, Austin, Texas, The Bluecoats drum bugle corps) presents 10 beginning to advanced rudimental solos that are approachable for all students by presenting each one in three different varieties as follows:

 

• BRONZE VERSION: Rudiments are broken down into their basic building blocks and rhythms are presented in their simplest formats

 

•• SILVER VERSION: Stickings become more complex, roll rudiments are typically added to the rhythmic foundations set forth in the bronze version

 

••• GOLD VERSION Commonly seen short-hand notations are employed, and flam rudiments are added

 

These versions can be played progressively, or in tandem, combining bronze, silver, and gold versions simultaneously within a classroom setting!

 

In all cases, dynamics, rudimental vocabulary, and rhythmic precision are given equal emphasis. Whether students reach the  gold, silver, or bronze, they’ll be sure to make it to the finish line with an enhanced sense of musicality and technical agility!

 

The Starting Line ships as a professionally printed, spiral-bound book with a sleek color cover design and includes reference recordings in downloadable format, with performance videos available online.