_Hi- my name is Jackie and I am a drummer ... and have been since the age of 4. I went through the many stages of drumming, including banging pots & pans with wooden spoons as a toddler. Then when my parents knew it wasn't just a fad, I graduated to my very first "kiddie kit" (age 5). Then I got my first "real" drum kit, although it was really beat up (age 7). I must have shown a real passion for it because the next thing I knew, my folks hired a drum teacher and he would go on to teach me for 2 1/2 years.

Unfortunately, some teachers did not believe girls could play drums & denied me the opportunity to play in their band so I played the violin/ piano/ guitar instead ... but nothing took the place of drums. (Note: many young drummers may come across people who doubt their ability to play. And, therefore, will most likely have to prove their skills.) I still have to prove myself as a drummer but if you have the credentials and the knowledge of your craft, you will have no problem establishing your credibility.

The high school was accepting of  girl drummers and welcomed my talents with open arms. I played in concert bands, jazz bands, orchestras, and competed in many high school competitions. I also auditioned for the NJ Allstate Band. With each experience, my confidence level grew to the point where I challenged the high school lead percussionist ... and won. I would hold that title for 3 years (staving off many challenges).

Of all the bands in which I played, I'd have to say the most enriching experience was the marching band. This is where I learned what drumming was all about. I was trained in rudiments, dynamics, precision, timing, discipline, dedication, devotion, patience, and learned how to write music. I went on to write many of the cadences for the band. It was my best experience and I recommend any drummer to participate in his/her marching band.