June 2024 Newsletter
In This Month’s Newsletter
Embarking on the Rhythmic Journey:
Exploring the Joys of Learning Drums and Percussion
Fun and Important Dates
Upcoming Recitals
Welcome Our New Students
Student of the Month
Spotlight on Drums & Percussions
Days and Deeds of Dr. Dennis
Music Playdates in the Parks
Interested in unschooling?
Summer Camps!
Did You Read Your Newsletter Contest?
Referral Program
Embarking on the Rhythmic Journey: Exploring the Joys of Learning Drums and Percussion
Learning drums and percussion is a dynamic and exhilarating journey that offers a wealth of benefits and rewards. From developing rhythmic prowess to fostering creativity and self-expression, the study of drums and percussion is an enriching experience with countless opportunities for growth and exploration.
At the heart of learning drums and percussion lies the development of rhythmic proficiency. As the backbone of any musical ensemble, drummers and percussionists play a pivotal role in driving the beat and shaping the groove. Through the study of various rhythmic patterns, techniques, and styles, aspiring drummers learn to internalize rhythm, develop coordination, and refine their sense of timing. Whether mastering the syncopated rhythms of jazz, the driving pulse of rock, or the intricate patterns of world music, the study of drums and percussion lays the foundation for a solid rhythmic foundation.
Learning drums and percussion nurtures creativity and self-expression. As musicians explore different sounds, textures, and techniques, they discover endless possibilities for musical innovation and experimentation. From crafting dynamic drum fills to improvising percussive solos, drummers and percussionists have the freedom to express themselves in unique and imaginative ways. The rhythmic flexibility and versatility of drums and percussion allow musicians to explore a wide range of musical genres and styles, from traditional to contemporary, making it a truly inclusive and diverse art form.
Studying drums and percussion promotes physical fitness and coordination. The physical demands of playing drums require strength, endurance, and dexterity, as drummers navigate complex rhythms and execute precise movements across the drum kit or percussion instruments. Regular practice sessions not only improve motor skills and coordination but also promote cardiovascular health and overall well-being. Drumming is not just a musical activity; it is also a form of physical exercise that energizes the body and invigorates the mind.
Learning drums and percussion fosters collaboration and teamwork. Whether performing in a band, ensemble, or orchestra, drummers and percussionists must work closely with their fellow musicians to create cohesive and unified musical performances. By listening, communicating, and responding to each other's cues, musicians develop essential interpersonal skills and learn the value of cooperation and mutual respect. The shared experience of making music together strengthens bonds and fosters a sense of camaraderie among ensemble members, creating a supportive and nurturing musical community.
Learning drums and percussion is a dynamic and rewarding endeavor that offers a multitude of benefits for aspiring musicians. From developing rhythmic proficiency to fostering creativity, physical fitness, and collaboration, the study of drums and percussion provides a rich and fulfilling musical experience. Whether pursuing it as a hobby or a professional career, the rhythmic journey of drums and percussion is sure to inspire, challenge, and delight musicians of all ages and skill levels.
FUN and IMPORTANT DATES
Sunday, June 16 - Father’s Day
Wednesday, June 19 - Juneteenth
Upcoming Recitals
Recital: In - Person
Tuesday, July 2, Afternoon and Early Evening
RSVP required
Laguna Hills, Community Center
Please welcome
our NEW Students who enrolled
in April
Ananth P.
Tiffany S.
Stella T.
Joshua W.
Student of the Month
Sky Maleki
Sky started taking piano lessons in December 2023, and is progressing through the Presto! It's Piano Magic series and is close to playing all the songs through Part 4 of Book 1. Sky's favorite thing about playing the piano is that "it sounds nice, especially when it’s fast!"
Sky recently performed in the Music Teachers Association of California, Orange Coast Cities branch, community recital at Freedom Village Retirement Community in Lake Forest, CA. This was her first recital! She said she was excited and a bit nervous. She was the youngest student performing in the recital and played a small suite of folk songs and children's songs. Sky was very enjoyable to watch and to listen to!
One day, Sky would like to learn to play the guitar and drums. At school, she likes recess, free explore, and spending time with her friends. Her favorite sport is pickleball, and she loves Hawaii!
Spotlight on Drums & Percussions
The history of drums spans across diverse cultures and civilizations, reflecting the universal human impulse to create rhythm and music. From ancient times to the modern era, drums have played a central role in cultural expression, communication, and ceremonial rituals.
Ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, and China used drums for various purposes, including religious ceremonies, military signaling, and communal celebrations. Early drum-like instruments were often made from natural materials such as animal skins, wood, and clay, and were played with hands, sticks, or rudimentary mallets.
In Africa, drums held deep cultural significance, serving as a means of communication, storytelling, and spiritual expression. The djembe, a goblet-shaped drum originating from West Africa, is one of the most iconic African drums, renowned for its rich, resonant sound and expressive capabilities. Played by skilled percussionists using bare hands, the djembe embodies the rhythmic heartbeat of African music and dance.
In Asia, drums have been integral to traditional music and religious ceremonies for millennia. Instruments such as the Japanese taiko drums, Chinese gu drums, and Indian tabla drums each have their own unique traditions and playing techniques, reflecting the diverse cultural tapestry of the continent. These drums range in size, shape, and tonal characteristics, but all share the common purpose of providing rhythmic accompaniment and expression.
In Europe, the Middle Ages saw the emergence of orchestral percussion instruments such as timpani and bass drums. Timpani, also known as kettle drums, were originally used in military bands and royal courts, and later became an essential part of symphony orchestras. These large, bowl-shaped drums produce deep, resonant tones and are played with mallets to provide rhythmic support and melodic punctuation in classical music.
The bass drum, with its thunderous low-frequency sound, has roots in ancient civilizations and has been used in various cultural contexts throughout history. In Western music, the bass drum evolved into a key component of the modern drum set, providing a powerful and driving beat in genres such as jazz, rock, and marching band music.
The development of the modern drum set can be traced back to the 19th century, with the advent of military marching bands and brass bands in Europe and the United States. Drummers in these ensembles began to combine various percussion instruments, including bass drums, snare drums, cymbals, and timpani, into a single setup to fulfill the diverse rhythmic demands of different musical genres.
In the early 20th century, innovations in drum construction and technology led to the standardization of the modern drum set. Pioneering drummers like Gene Krupa, Buddy Rich, and Papa Jo Jones helped popularize the drum set as a solo instrument, showcasing its versatility and expressive potential in jazz, swing, and later, rock and roll music.
Today, the drum set remains a ubiquitous instrument in virtually every genre of music, from jazz and blues to rock, pop, hip-hop, and beyond. Modern drummers continue to push the boundaries of technique and innovation, incorporating electronic drum pads, samplers, and other electronic elements into their setups to create new sonic landscapes and possibilities.
Days & Deeds of Dr. Dennis
Las Flores is a tiny unincorporated area next to Ranch Santa Margarita, along Oso and Antonio Parkways. I know Las Flores because I used to drive by it every day when taking my kids to Serra Catholic School (now St. Junipero Serra Catholic School) in the morning and picking them up in the afternoon. It is such a beautiful area!
Inspirations
“Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.”
“June is a love song written by nature.”
Music Playdates in the Parks
Laguna Niguel and surrounding areas.
Weekly playdates on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Meet friends, dance a little, sing along, and play with some musical instruments and other fun toys!
Find us near the playground. Free to all participants!
Did You Read Your Newsletter Contest?
June 2024
To encourage everyone to read the Dennis Frayne Music Studio Newsletter, each month we’ll feature a new contest winner or a new contest. Be sure to read your newsletter each month to see if your name has been drawn or you might miss out!
This month’s winner is Serena Deflorio
Serena has won 10 tickets which can be redeemed for prizes at the Dennis Frayne Music Studio, Laguna Niguel!
To collect your prize tickets just bring this to the office.
Congratulations, Serena!
Everyone, be sure to read your newsletter each month!
