Rick Smith’s annual vintage and custom drum show at The Sphinx Shriners Center in Newington , Connecticut was another huge success. On Sunday, April 23, 2017, a very large crowd of drummers and percussion enthusiasts were enjoying the standing room only clinics in the large auditorium by Joe Corsello, Adam Nussbaum, and Mark Schulman. While many others were busy checking out the two floors of over 40 dealers in the adjacent building.

The first clinic paired jazz drummers Joe Corsello, and Adam Nussbaum…Both of their performances were warmly received by those in attendance. Adam and Joe had serious insights into the drums as a musical and melodic instrument, focusing on dynamics, importance of time keeping, and supporting the other group members. Adam and Joe were just like two college professors expounding on the history of the drums. With their combined experience of over one hundred years in the music business, they proved once again that knowledge is power.

Next up was Mark Schulman showcasing an interactive presentation based on his book ‘Conquering Life’s Stage Fright -Three Steps To Top Performance’. It is imperative to check out Mark’s website to fully appreciate his exceptional message.

http://markschulman.com

“Mark Schulman has performed for more than a billion people in his 28-year career. He’s been the drummer for some of the greatest musical artists in history, including P!nk, Foreigner, Cher, Billy Idol, Stevie Nicks, Simple Minds, Beyoncé, Tina Turner, Velvet Revolver, Dave Koz and many more. In Conquering Life’s Stage Fright, through entertaining stories and innovative exercises, Mark reveals three core concepts that you can immediately employ to transform your anxieties — no matter what type of presentation, communication or performance is causing them — into a confident, world-class performance.”

The crowning achievement of this years’ show was a performance by The Johnny Winter All-Stars featuring Connecticut’s very own musical legend, Bobby T Torello on drums and lead vocals. Bobby was recently inducted into the 2017 Classic Drummer Hall of Fame. The All-Stars also showcased Grammy award winning guitarist Paul Nelson, and superstar bassist Scott Spray tearing through a wide array of Johnny Winter tunes including: Don’t Take Advantage Of Me, Boney Maronie, Dust My Broom, Rock 'n' Roll Hoochie Coo, Jumpin' Jack Flash, and It’s All Over Now.

Before the show began Ludwig endorser Bobby T was presented with a custom painted William Ludwig III snare drum to match Bobby’s ‘Yosemite Sam’ kit modeled after Dino Danelli’s original 1960’s Ludwig’s.

The drums were designed and rendered by ‘Mo Potts’ aka Mark Potocsky of MJP Studios. The snare was created by Jim Brando who does all pinstriping for The Harley – Davidson Motorcycle Company.

Very special guest drummer Bernard “Pretty” Purdie was busily greeting fans throughout the day. Bernard is currently promoting his new book ‘Let The Drums Speak! – The Life Story Of The Most Recorded Drummer’. Just to be in the presence of this living legend was totally awe inspiring. A true gentleman in every sense of the word… AMAZING !! Some of the other well-renowed drummers in attendance were Sergio Bellotti, Teri Coté, Daniel Glass, Bill Ludwig III, Chris Parker, Jack Scarangella, and Jay Wood.

From the positive feedback I received from numerous attendees and dealers - everyone had a really great time, and are looking forward to the Connecticut Vintage and Custom Drum Show of 2018.

2017 EXHIBITING DEALERS

ALTO MUSIC

CHICAGO DRUM

CARTER HARRIS & DOUG MACLOED

GRETSCH GEAR

MONTINERI CUSTOM DRUMS

JOEY BOOM DRUMS

RADIOMAN DRUMS

SJC DRUMS

BOB BROWN

314 DRUM SMITHS

NOMO FINISH PROTECTORS