thedrumking

The Empire Statesmen won drums in '92, '93, '94 and '97....all matched grip and yes, extremely clean.

I never had the opportunity to use stands so it is hard for me to see these groups with stands all the time. It seems that most people think while learning notes in the winter and such that stands are OK, and I agree. I do however think that some lines are using them too often. Taking stands to the zone before a show is over the top IMHO. I also think that with all the body movement coming into drumming that stands don't allow you to get the full feel for where the drum is going, how the player needs to adjust when the drum is whipping all over the place and you are no longer hitting on the sweet spot of the drum because you have cranked it around your body 5 times for some cool visual thing................. It is a tough topic for me........but these days I would last 10 mins without one LOL!!

Forgot that I played in The Northmen from Rochester NY matched grip. '84 and '85 they were matched. 10 snares too!!

Unbelieveable..............I have known Rick since early Statesmen days and then worked with him at Eastridge....and now the opportunity again at Crusaders this year. Seeing him Saturday with a coffee and laughing the whole day is how I will remember him....as well as some of the best hands in the business. Thoughts and prayers to his family and the whole drum corps community.

I am 41 and have marched since '78. I jusy had a basil cell carcinoma removed as well. The funny thing is, it was in a place that was always covered, my chest. As a drummer I always had a harness on (or sling). Furthermore, I do not have the body design that would warrent taking off my shirt! I have had plenty of sun on arms, head and neck so I have to go every 6mos now I guess. Still on limited mobility for another 2 weeks.

Not sure if you are looking DCA but the Empire Statesmen played matched from '83 through at least '99. Won 4 drum titles playing matched under the instruction and direction of Tim Stodd, who was in the '82 Vanguard line playing matched. Tradish looks cool but I would need plenty of practice to take that on the field myself!!