Dave Owen Drums

a solo jam in my studio:)

This, my first entry, is devoted to my mission to become a better musician, not just a better drummer. I am eternally a student who is on a path to discovering new and better methods and, although I have over 25 years experience, I do not claim to be a master drummer.  I love music, the rhythm, the melody, the harmonies, and the stories told through this medium. My hope and intent is that I can inspire other like minded individuals to strive to be the best drummers they can be.

The focus of this blog is drumming and progress based on my experiences performing with many different groups from high school concert bands and jazz bands, to jazz combos, theater productions and rock bands in concert halls, theaters, libraries,  from Seattle to New York City.  Along the way I have had the pleasure to encounter many performers who have inspired me and given me opportunities to excel to a level of proficiency which enables me to sit in with any musicians out there. There is such a great bond among the musicians I have had the pleasure to play with.  And playing with musicians who are better than you, or more experienced is always an opportunity to rise to a new level of playing.  

Finding your weaknesses is the best way to improve your playing and I encourage you to be attentive and present while in the practice room so you’ll be able to identify what you need to work on.  Listen to yourself and make adjustments. Start slowly and gradually increase tempos.  Playing to a click, or some kind of steady beat is essential in order to develop a strong meter.  I encourage listening to and playing as many different styles of music as you can in order to develop versatility.  A metal drummer can learn a lot from classical music. Be patient, yet persistent.  When it all boils down, you are the only one that will determine what level of self discipline you will practice with.  So take what you can from my lessons, and run with it.