Modern Drummer Festival Weekend 1997

The 10th Annual Modern Drummer Festival Weekend, held on May 17 and 18, 1997, featured a diverse lineup of some of the world’s most exciting and innovative drummers. The entire weekend’s events were recorded, and the best moments of the festival are presented in this 2-DVD set. Included are excerpts of each performance, insightful interviews with the featured performers and other notable drummers in attendance, and exclusive backstage and rehearsal footage. Artists featured include Virgil Donati, John Tempesta, Bill Stewart, Tony Royster Jr., Horacio “El Negro” Hernandez, Paul Wertico, Jack DeJohnette, Steve Gadd and Giovanni Hidalgo.

SATURDAY, MAY 17

Virgil Donati wows the crowd with his performance of several songs with backing tracks, a virtuosic solo, and a mini-clinic on his signature double bass drum techniques.

The Percussion Originators Ensemble offers a rare glimpse at the prowess of some drumming industry pioneers. Performers include Ron Spagnardi, Herb Brochstein, Don Lombardi, Roy Burns and Vic Firth.

John Tempesta shows off some of his powerful double bass drumming in an energetic solo.

Steve Gadd and Giovanni Hidalgo, two of the greatest percussionists in history, perform here, together, for the very first time. Prior to this performance, the pair spent three days preparing for the event, and it was all captured on video.This behind-the-scenes look at these two great artists as they compose, rehearse, improvise, solo, and learn from each other is a must-see, and, of course, the festival performance is incredible.

Bill Stewart has played with John Scofield, Joe Lovano, Pat Metheny, and Maceo Parker. Here, joined by his band, which features Larry Goldings on organ and Peter Bernstein on guitar, hedisplays all the reasons why he's one of today's most in-demand jazz drummers.

SUNDAY, MAY 18

Tony Royster Jr., though only 12 years old on this DVD, shows us the blistering speed and impeccable technique he's become famous for.

Horacio "EI Negro" Hernandez provides some revealing insights into the subtleties and challenges of playing Afro-Cuban music, along with several brilliant solos and performances with bassist John Patitucci.

Paul Wertico, best known for his work with the Pat Metheny Group, steps out with a strikingly creative solo. 

Jack DeJohnette isn't considered a jazz legend for nothing, and his solo here shows us why.

Steve Ferrone, session great and drummer for Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, performs some feel-good, funky music with his band¬mates Jeff Golub, David Garfield, Carol Steele, and Lincoln Goines.

Modern Drummer Festival Weekend 1997 is now available online here at the Drummer Cafe!

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