Price: £12.99
Publisher: Magic Cat Publishing
Genre:
Age Range: 5-8 Infant/Junior
Length: 40pp
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The Life-changing Magic of Drumming
Illustrator: Andrea StegmaierThis attractive hardback is about much more than drumming as it contains lots of good, practical advice about approaching life: ‘No matter what your dreams are for the future, love what you do and do what you love!’ (p. 31).
Nandi explains how she was inspired to take up drumming when she was five years old and saw Ringo Starr playing the drums online. With some lessons, regular practice and encouragement from Dad, her playing soon improved and she aimed high: ‘Don’t be afraid to try something new’ (p. 10). Fast forward a few years and Nandi was posting drum covers online and getting millions of views. She has now played with the Foo Fighters at The Forum in LA as well as at Wembley Stadium!
I love the way the book is structured with lots of relevant and clear illustrations to back up the text. Not only does Nandi tell her own story but she gives in-depth explanations regarding how to play drums. For example, on pages 8-9 she goes into detail about rhythms and backbeats. Single strokes and double strokes are then explained on pages 14 and 15. Nandi’s enthusiasm and professionalism shine through this colourful hardback. It is a very comprehensive guidebook which consists of drum lessons for beginners as well as tips for anyone starting out: ‘It’s very important to wear ear protection when you’re drumming’ (p.13). The illustrated glossary is helpful and explains musical terms in straightforward language.
Congratulations to everybody involved in producing this volume which should inspire many youngsters to start drumming. Anyone over the age of five will enjoy reading Nandi’s book. It would be a great addition to any library or would be perfect as a gift.