“ If you want a swinging band, get a swinging drummer.” - Phil Woods
Drummer Gregory Caputo compiles over forty years of playing experiences into his recently released book: ‘Classic Swing Drumming – Methods and Techniques for Development of the Swing Feel’. Caputo brings a vast wealth of knowledge to the subject; having toured with the bands of Count Basie, Cab Calloway, Jimmy Dorsey, Tommy Dorsey, Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, Lionel Hampton, Harry James, Sammy Kay, Gene Krupa, Nelson Riddle, Artie Shaw, and numerous other jazz legends.
“The intention of the material is to instill a solid time pulse, enhance dexterity, and most importantly, to establish a swinging time feel into your drumming skills.” - Greg Caputo
Greg breaks his book down into easily understood sections focusing on the history of swing music, embellished with recollections and vintage photographs. Caputo’s personal definition of a swinging drummer is: “One who creates a swinging, propulsive beat with a soulful rhythmic feel, contagious to musicians and audiences alike.” Greg further analyzes the foundations of the swing pulse and the anatomy of a swing feel. Every example is fully transcribed with many accompanying exercises. Integrated throughout the book are recollections from musicians describing exactly what they want to hear in a drummer. Other areas of focus include notable swing drummers, the sound of swing drums, accented swing rhythms, and swing feel beat placement.
“I have known Greg Caputo his entire drumming career. He understands the heart and soul of swing.” - Phil Woods
Numerous swing exercises are transcribed throughout Greg’s book, including: hand and foot endurance, various roll and dexterity exercises, and coordinated independence; emphasizing the importance of virtuosity and musicality.
“Greg, You are doing jazz and your students a great favor by focusing on that elusive, but basic element of the jazz tradition. Swinging comes from the soul, an inner source, and an awareness of the rhythms of life around us.” - Dave Brubeck
Caputo’s book includes over one hundred pages of exceptional information focused on swing concepts. Drummers who want to master the various techniques and forms of swing should definitely check out his “Classic Swing Drumming” book and a companion CD entitled: "Classic Swing with a Modern Drive."
Contact Gregory Caputo @ (413) 896-0327 bigbandbeater@aol.com www.gregorycaputo.com Greg plays DW drums and hardware exclusively