VIC FIRTH ARTIST: JASON MCGERR

Jason has worked steadily for the past 17 years as a performer and educator both regionally and across the US. Since 2003, Jason's primary commitment has been with the band Death Cab For Cutie and he is featured on their latest albums, Transatlanticism and the Grammy nominated Plans. He has also been very involved as a session player, engineer, studio drum tech and side man working with independent and major label artist that are internationally recognized in various genres of music.

In addition to his busy schedule as a player, Jason has been a core staff member and private instructor at The Seattle Drum School of Music for the past 12 years. While not touring, he holds a steady cliental of students that range in ages as beginners to advanced players, including local and touring professionals.

His expertise has been requested for clinics at schools and music stores around the country.

WATCH OUR EXCLUSIVE TWO PART INTERVIEW WITH JASON

Filmed backstage at the Modern Drummer festival 2006, Jason talks about his history, joining Death Cab for Cutie, his practice routine, his favorite sticks and more. Featuring performance clips from his festival performance.

5A Tear drop tip for rich cymbal sounds. Great for every style of music! L=16", Dia.=.565"

More about Jason . . .

Jason’s primary music education can be attributed to becoming a student at The Seattle Drum School in 1992 where he studied with owner Steve Smith. "Steve taught me a great deal about his many systems of independence. He also taught me how to teach myself….. And now I teach at his school because I believe in his curriculum". But before returning as a teacher he sought out further instruction in the area of technique from John Fisher, a North American Solo Drum Champion, and internationally honored clinician and performer from Vancouver, B.C. John was a member of the Shotts and Dykehead Scottish Pipe band lead by Alex Duthert through several World Championships. Jason studied with John consistently for 3 years and still visits him on occasion. "John Fisher showed me how to economize my stick motions and really dig deep into what’s going on with the hands."

Another teacher who has made a great impression on his playing style is Jim Kilpatrick from Glasgow, Scotland. He is the current World Solo Drumming Champion, holds 13 individual titles and 12 band titles as leader of the Shotts & Dykehead Pipe Band, 11 of which are consecutive. Jason attended one his many distinguished schools that he teaches abroad and enjoyed some very thorough private and group instruction in Scottish Drumming.

For more information in Jason and the Seattle Drum School - visit seattledrumschool.com