“With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt
the boss
Behold – the vintage 1968 Ludwigs are back and better than they’ve ever been since I’ve had them, which is – omg – 41 years. I have wanted to restore them since I got them, and since neither of us are getting any younger, it was past time to show them some TLC. My grandmother Adams bought these drums for me in 1979 so I could play at church. They’ve never had bottom rims since I’ve owned them. I’m not sure when they were removed. I’m not even sure they ever had bottom rims, but it would have been highly unusual if they didn’t. Those rims, and the heads they hold, make all the difference in the sound of a drum. It’s unreal how good the bass drum sounds now. It gave me chills the first time I heard it.
beautiful
Vince Grino, V for short, at The Drum Center did the restoration. Dave Farris raved about V’s expertise with drum restoration, and rightfully so. He was very sweet with my babies and with me, taking good care to stay as true to the spirit of the drums as possible, which was exactly why he was the right man for the job. I never felt compromised in my decision. I especially enjoy supporting my local music shop. You can’t get this kind of service at mail order joints like Musician’s Friend and Sweetwater, or one of the billion Guitar Center’s around the country. V and The Drum Center are stars in The Bluegrass and we’re really lucky to have them.
maestro
I’m going to spend tomorrow playing my grandmother’s Ludwigs and giving thanks for V, The Drum Center, and the ability – finally – to restore such an exquisite instrument. I feel honored to be able to do it. I hope the next drummer loves them as much as I do. Plus, they’re finished just in time to make their debut at the John Lennon Tribute show and I’m really excited to get them mic-ed up to hear how they record. Shop local, ya’ll. Shops like The Drum Center are vital to the communities and the musicians they serve. I feel so, so fortunate today.
all smiles
One response
Mamaw and Papaw loved you very very much. They both would be so proud of you.