Just last week drumming virtuoso Dom Famularo scheduled three clinics throughout the state of Florida, two of which we were lucky enough to attend. I was first exposed to Dom from his world famous cyber lessons on Vic Firth's website, where not only did I learn various playing techniques, but the valuable history behind them. This article is a brief representation of what took place during these two extraordinary events.

The first clinic was held at Carlton Music Center in Lakeland, Fl. We arrived early to avoid the line which eventually led to the back of the store as many were in attendance for the clinic. Standing outside we could hear the thunderous boom of Dom's kick drum as he prepared during sound check. All of the staff were gracious and friendly as they greeted us and submitted our information for a raffle which neither Keith nor I won.

Before Mr. Famularo was introduced we received a special treat from employee Darryl Johnson. Darryl was on hand to give us some insight on what it was like to be a musician during the Civil War. He even brought along an actual re-creation of a rope drum used during the Civil and Revolutionary Wars! It was really cool to witness this piece of history to see exactly what it was like and particularly how it sounded. Darryl then told us the story of the original 13 rudiments and played several popular cadences from the era such as those used to give commands to the army. Afterwards he performed a solo on his beautiful 60's Ludwig kit, you know.....the one some guy named Ringo played? Then it was time for the main event.

There were no surprises when Dom was introduced. He was as warm and inviting as ever in BOTH clinics I might add, as he encouraged everybody to get as close to the stage as possible. As he spoke you could just feel the passion in his voice about the musical art which he has come to love so dearly. Mr. Famularo lectured with such enthusiasm that his infectious attitude and zest for life was felt by all as he not only spoke but connected to everyone in the room. The stories he told were hilarious! From telling his dad about pursuing his dreams, to meeting his son's principal and embarrassing himself in Mainland China. It was amazing how much of his life he was actually willing to share. It was as if we were all sitting at a campfire being entertained by a guy who just loves what he does. Particularly interesting was the story he told of how the modern drum set was born or “contraption as they called it back in the day, hence the word "trap set". Afterwards Dom amazed the crowd with a spectacular drum solo and later jammed out with Darryl and a local bass player who actually used to be in a band with Famularo earlier in his career. This along with several raffle drawings concluded the clinic as fans stuck around for the autograph session. Then it was time for round 2.

It's always a pleasure to go to Seminole Music and Sound. The staff is knowledgeable and Store Manager John Spinelli is always around to take care of all of your needs, and he's a great drummer to boot. John gave us just a small taste of his talent as his band, Josephine's Machine, opened up with several tunes to entertain a packed house.

John Spinelli-Drums

Steve Carter-Guitar/Vocals

Dody Carter-Bass/Vocals

Dom then took the stage to reemphasize the points he made in earlier clinics. Then he went on to WOW the crowd even further with his amazing soloing skills and a drumming duet with John Spinelli, but more was still to come… as there was a special guest also in attendance at the clinic. Earlier Dom explained how throughout his career he enjoys being an influence to the next generation of up and coming drummers. It just so happened one of them grew up to become the famous John Blackwell (Prince, Cameo, Justin Timberlake) who dropped in to share the experience and the stage with his long-time mentor. Afterwards, Spinelli and Blackwell blew everyone away as they rocked out an awesome drum duet with Josephine's Machine!

I can’t tell you how wonderful the whole experience was to see all of these great musicians together in one place. I would like to give thanks to SABIAN reps Greg Zeller and Matt Buckner for sponsoring the event, Carlton Music Center and Seminole Music and Sound for continuing to give back to the community by inviting these wonderful artists to share their time with us. It takes a lot of work to organize, promote, and host these events so PLEASE support all local music stores so that they may continue to bring only the best to the state of Florida!

Click HERE to view all the pics from the gallery.