Here is a well-organized instructional videotape and notebook for drummers of all experiences and backgrounds. It begins with the instructions on how to hold the instruments and then demonstrates, step-by-step, the various sounds made with the fingers and hands. After working on basic duple and triple patterns the student learns some catchy rhythms. There follows some intermediate studies with standard meters of 2, 3, 4, 6, and 8 beats as well as the more unusual 5 and 7 beats. The tape goes on to illustrate some advanced techniques and Rhythmic Diminution, the basis of drumming improvisation in India. Diddle the Doum, a 3 1/2-minute solo using rhythms inspired by the traditional stick-drummer's Paradiddle, concludes the tape.

Ben Harms has been playing hand drum and tambourine for over twenty years with the Calliope Renaissance Band and other ensembles. He has made numerous recordings and teaches workshops and private students. In addition to performing with Calliope, Mr. Harms is a percussionist with the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and timpanist with many modern and period orchestras.

For more information about Ben Harms' video and other percussion products, Harms Historical Percussion is on the web!

Check out a recent recording of Calliope with Ben Harms, Calliope Swings.