The drum rudiments are the language of drummers. They are to us what scales and chords are to the other instruments. Understanding the rudiments allows the drummer to communicate with other drummers and also have the ability tointerpret terminology and rhythms that are so often seen in music and music publications. This book is designed for drummers of all levels who would like knowledge of the snare drum rudiments but haven’t had the advantage ofstudying them formally. It is a quick simple approach that can be learned by any drummer who can do single strokes and double strokes [strokes using the stick rebound]. While this method is not meant to be a substitute for thetraditional way of learning the drum rudiments which I totally recommend one of the advantages of it is that it is a fast easy alternate method that will give an understanding of the how the rudiments are played and shouldsound. If nothing else this book will improve the drummer’s overall technique and playing. After studying the approach described it will be an easy transition to take the study of the rudiments further learning to play themin the traditional way and apply them to the drumset.

Jan Dobbins is a former Music Adviser and Head of an LEA Instrumental Music Service. Now she divides her time between delivering professional development courses teaching string players exploring music with children aged 3-11 composing instrumental music and writing songs.

Gary Dahl: Mel Bay's Master Accordion Scale Book has been designed to develop the professional or recreational accordionist further toward advanced musicianship.Why do we practice scales? The great jazzaccordionist Art Van Damme when asked what he practised replied 'Only the fundamentals.' The fundamental classical and Jazz scales with explanations are presented here in a clear concise format.