Ken will discuss the history of the drum set and then discuss & demonstrate the multiple styles, sounds and colors that can be produced on the instrument and how the drum set can be applied to a variety musical situations. He will also discuss the various techniques required to get the most out of the drum set, including advanced hand and foot techniques. The purpose of the workshop is to present the drum set as an instrument in its own right as well as demonstrating the continuing evolution and technical demands required to properly master the drum set. This will be an eye-opening journey through a myriad of musical styles and techniques as most people have a limited view of the drum sets function.
| Grade Suitability | 6-12 |
| Maximum Class Size | 30 |
| Time Required | Designed to fit class period 50 to 75 minutes. |
| Material Required | Instructor will bring his own instrument. |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Communities | Whitehorse and possibly all based on interest. |
| Availability | Sept-May |
| Special Notes | *Class size can vary, as this is more of a demonstration based workshop and could be presented to very large group such as a full concert band in a band room. There will also be time for questions and an opportunity to sit behind the kit as well. In a smaller group setting there would obviously be more time for questions and more opportunity to sit behind the drums. **Ken is also available to work with percussion sections, individual students or teachers on any aspect of percussion performance and education. |
Ken Searcy brings a wealth of over 30 years of studies and practical performance experience to his teaching practice. As an in-demand, freelance professional musician in Calgary, Edmonton and the Yukon he has performed with, and learned from, some of the best musicians in the world in a wide variety of genres: rudimental/marching percussion, concert band, orchestral percussion, jazz big band and all styles of drum set performance. He keeps up to date with the latest instructional media and methods and it is not unusual for a student to be introduced to a new method, which Ken is currently studying himself.