A Philosophy of Playing Drum Kit: Magical Nexus

The author is a drummer with experience in various musical genres and contexts, and this auto-ethnographic Element presents their philosophy of playing drum kit. It explains how playing drum kit matters to the musician and may resonate with others who make music. The Element contains audio files of music in which the author plays drum kit and photos of their drums and them drumming. The author describes how playing drum kit enables them to experience transcendence, the magical nexus at which Materials, Construction, Values/Culture, and Expression meet, illustrated through examples of their live and recorded musical collaborations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 06 October 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The author, a seasoned drummer with expertise in a wide range of musical genres and settings, particularly in rock and its related styles, presents an auto-ethnographic Element that delves into their philosophy of playing the drum kit. This Element serves as a personal reflection on the significance of playing drums for the author and how it resonates with individuals who share a deep passion for making music.

The text begins by exploring the author's personal connection with the drum kit, emphasizing the profound impact it has on their musical journey. It sheds light on the emotional and physical aspects of playing drums, highlighting the transformative power it holds in their life. The author then delves into the broader context of playing drum kit, discussing its role in creating music and its ability to connect people on a profound level.

Throughout the Element, the author employs a rich and evocative language to convey their philosophy of playing drum kit. They draw upon various theoretical frameworks, such as June Boyce-Tillman's non-religious model of holistic spirituality and Tim Ingold's notion of correspondences, to explain how playing drum kit enables them to experience transcendence. Transcendence, as described by the author, is the magical nexus at which materials, construction, values/culture, and expression converge, resulting in a profound sense of awe and wonder.

To illustrate the concept of transcendence through the author's musical collaborations, the Element includes audio files of music in which the author plays drum kit in ensemble settings. These recordings capture the energy, passion, and creativity that the author brings to their drumming, showcasing their ability to create a seamless blend of sound and emotion. Additionally, the Element features photographs of the author's drums and of them drumming, providing a visual representation of the instruments and the artist's dedication to their craft.

In conclusion, the author's auto-ethnographic Element offers a captivating exploration of their philosophy of playing drum kit. Through vivid storytelling and thoughtful analysis, they shed light on the profound impact of music-making on individuals and society. The Element serves as a testament to the power of the drum kit as a tool for self-expression, creativity, and transcendence, and it resonates with anyone who has a deep appreciation for the art of drumming.

Weight: 526g
ISBN-13: 9781108995023