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Let's Firm Up Goals for the Weiss Mallet Workshop - 2025

I've said this over and over. I don't know how anyone gets good without goals. Maybe there's a way but I don't think so. 
I think not having goals, is like learning how to shoot a bow an arrow with out a target. 

Beginners: 

Really try to memorize 2 of these 3 tunes at least: 

  • Maiden Voyage
  • Little Sunflower
  • Blue Bossa
  • Bags Groove

 

Intermediate: 

Memorize at least one of the beginner tunes and maybe 2 of these: 

Mallet Percussion Museum

Tony's broadcast from the museum at the Wells Rapp Center for Mallet Percussion Research was very interesting. Dr. Frank Kumor described the instruments, and he's really knowledgeable and dedicated to the museum's mission. I'd like to talk with the professor because I grew up six blocks from what was the Musser factory in La Grange Park, Illinois, and when I was a teenager, I got a personal tour from the president. I also got to pick up my M55 at the factory in 1986. I hope Tony will post the video.

🎶 Looking Ahead to the Steve Weiss Mallet Festival!

Hey everyone,

I’m really looking forward to being part of the upcoming Steve Weiss Mallet Festival in late July and early August! It’s always great to connect with other players in person, and I’m especially excited to work with many of you face to face.

During the festival, I’ll be teaching concepts directly tied to the two video lesson series I’ve been sharing here on VibesWorkshop:

Beginner's Series - Soloing Through The Changes Pt. 3 by Behn Gillece

🚨 Soloing Through the Changes Pt. 3 – Diatonic 7th Chord Outlinings on “Minority”

In Part 3, we take our soloing a step further by outlining each chord using full 7th chord arpeggios, adding more shape and melodic possibility to our lines. Still working with Minority, this lesson is about expanding from guide tones to complete harmonic outlines—while keeping strong voice leading in mind.