Carter Beauford: Under the Table and Drumming: Drum DVD

This DVD offers direct access to a master drummer's methodology at work, not in isolation but performing actual Dave Matthews Band repertoire with rhythm tracks. Students watch Beauford solve real musical problems across six well-known songs, then hear his own explanations of his choices regarding hand technique, cymbal selection, and time feel.

Energetic and purposeful. Beauford's performances crackle with precision and feel, capturing the tight, driving energy the Dave Matthews Band is known for while his commentary reveals the intentionality behind every choice. The rhythm tracks keep the focus on the drums while previously unreleased live footage shows these approaches in their original context.

Intermediate to advanced drummers who want to study a working professional's approach to groove-based music and understand how technical facility serves musical expression. Drum instructors will find this especially valuable for students studying contemporary styles, open-hand technique, and the relationship between setup choices and sound.

• Study the open-hand lead technique Beauford demonstrates, particularly how it changes the dynamic and texture of the drum sound compared to traditional matched grip approaches.
• Pay attention to how he layers ghost notes and dynamics across the snare; this control over articulation is essential to his musical identity.
• Notice his double bass drum applications in context rather than in isolation; the DVD shows when and why he uses these patterns, not just the mechanics.
• Examine his cymbal choices and setup closely; the interactive drumset feature allows you to see relationships between cymbal selection and the overall sound of each song.

Use this as a professional development resource in private lessons or drum intensives, particularly when teaching students interested in contemporary styles, groove-based playing, and advanced hand technique. The unreleased live footage also makes this valuable for ensemble listening and analysis sessions focused on how percussion drives a rock/funk ensemble.

• Open-hand lead and matched grip technique transitions
• Ghost note control and dynamic articulation on the snare
• Double bass drum applications in groove-based contexts
• Cymbal selection and setup optimization for different musical textures
• Time feel and phrasing in contemporary rock and funk
• Transcription and analysis of professional-level drumming