Happy Birthday, Alan Dawson!

[Ron Thorne]

If he were still alive, drum master Alan Dawson would be 85 years of age today.

Here is an amazing demonstration of a practice drill which Alan developed, utilizing the 1st 26 rudiments, but played with brushes, a more difficult approach. Next, some brush technique exercises. Finally, the target context, how practice can deliver very musical results.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vOwFQRYbbTo


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p1Aci1bwbnA


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGcsIaErFFw

[Gentle Giant]

I missed so many of the greats; fortunately, being in Boston, it wasn't hard to catch Alan as he was always local and always playing. I saw him three or four times in different settings, and I always came away completely mesmerized and wondering how he was able to do what he did. You were fortunate, Ron, in that you saw behind the curtain. I know someone else who took lessons with him as well. I'm sure if he hadn't gotten sick he'd still be out there working to this day.

[Ron Thorne]

GG, I'm absolutely certain that Alan would still be playing and teaching if he hadn't gotten ill.

With thanks to Eric Jackson and Marla Kleman:

Eric In The Evening: Alan Dawson Interview

[Ron Thorne]

And, with thanks to Steve Schwartz and WGBH:

Jazz Portraits | Alan Dawson