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Always Return Home

By Philip Hendrickson

Listening broadly is essential for musicians. Exploring a variety of styles and spending extended time becoming familiar with players who exemplify genres or techniques is how we expand our musical vocabulary. Growing a larger vocabulary brings confidence to play in more situations.

But periodically we need to “go home” to our favorite musicians and recall the music that hits us in the heart. For me, going home means listening to Jeff Hamilton’s trio or Brian Blade. Hamilton is the drummer I would choose to be if a genie granted me one wish. His phrasing and musical choices remind me how I like music to sound. His trio’s sound inspires me through the joy of well-crafted music that fills the whole dynamic range. Brian Blade’s creative musical vision inspires me to try fresh approaches at the drums, stretching my own musical concepts in new directions. 

Exploring new music is exciting and fun, and many styles are great for enhancing life’s activities. But going back home to my most favorite music and artists realigns my musical spine so I feel strong again and ready to attack new challenges.

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