Page Three
Drums Along Sunset, April 11, 2010: Addendum
Shortly following the posting of this feature, we were contacted by Glenn Noyes, national drum and percussion buyer for Guitar Center, requesting an opportunity to share additional information and the GC perspective regarding this event. We are happy to oblige. His addendum is posted here unedited. Glenn was also kind enough to send along a few extra pics of his own.
Guitar Center’s flagship Hollywood store just completed a major remodel of the drum department. The store, which opened 25 years ago, was in need of major display, carpet and fixture upgrades, and GC did not hold back.
The new electronic drum room allows drummers to test every kit in a spacious enclosed environment, while the new self serve drum head display and accessories wall allow drummers to conveniently access all the parts and supplies they need to fine tune their kits. Other upgrades include the new percussion islands and an expanded percussion area, along with custom risers for all merchandised kits.
On April 10-11, GC had a re-grand opening celebration and invited thousands of Southern California drummers to the party. All of the major manufacturers got involved and provided several thousands of dollars in giveaways, plus Grand Opening offers that were above and beyond the usual great deals.
The biggest highlight of the weekend was all the Sessions events (Guitar Centers enhanced clinic series) that started Saturday morning and ran until late Sunday night. The list of presenters ran far and wide and covered every genre. Saturday opened with Ron Powell (Kenny G, Chaka Chan) leading a massive drum circle, followed by DW VP John Goode in an educational session about shell construction and tuning, followed by Dom Famularo, finally followed by dbl bass master Derek Roddy!
Sunday started with a massive celebrity meet and greet with over 20 major drummers lined up signing, taking pictures and generally having a great time hanging with their fans. Artists included the legendary Hal Blaine, Dave Lombardo, Kenny Aronoff, Vinny Appice, Curt Bisquera, Xavier Muriel, and Mike Mangini just to name a few. Over 300 fans showed up and they all got to meet and hang with these guys.
This was followed by another Session with Stephen Perkins, and the night closed with professor Peter Erskine in the final Sessions event.
Overall, more than 1000 drummers experienced part or all of this wonderful weekend and it is sure to be the talk of the town for years to come.
–Glenn Noyes
National Drum and Percussion Buyer, Guitar Center
Lucky winner with Glenn. Dio rules.
Meet & Greet. Pictured: Tony Palermo, Xavier Muriel, Vinny Appice, Kenny Aronoff, and Hal Blaine