The MikeDrop Podcast

27 | Timpani Basics & Mutes

Mike T. thought we were talking about Timpani mutes, but together we talk about timpani concepts and basics also, which is a better topic.  What's the difference between "dampening" and "muting"?  We don't know and confuse these words the whole episode.  Overall, we don't solve anything and get to the bottom of nothing, but at least it uses an hour of your precious time!  Happy listening!
 
 

26 | Memory

The Mikes attempt to remember each others' names and it proves difficult.  Mike T. gets quite animated and goes on a lengthy monologue.  He should have been sedated but wasn't.  Overall, a great discussion of the reasons and techniques of memory and music, in our humble opinions.

25 | Cirone's Portraits in Rhythm

The Mikes enter into a battle royale over the best etudes in this iconic text. Blood is shed, but feelings are not hurt.  How to prepare these? Which ones should I play for an audition? Are they etudes or solos? Do they still matter?
 
Also, we originally recorded this with a video in mind but scrapped it. You'll understand once you listen.  We hope you enjoy!

24 | Iannis Xenakis

The Mikes discuss one of the warhorses of 20th-century music: Iannis Xenakis. Fun debate, pieces we never knew, and of course, loud sounds!

Summer Reads!

http://www.mikedropduo.com
 
The Mikes discuss our summer reads, postulate about future reads, and fill in the cracks with the usual banter. Maybe one of these books will interest you!

23 | Getting in Shape

http://www.mikedropduo.com
 
As Mike C.  once wonderfully mentioned, “you gotta show up for training camp in shape!” But how do you get in shape? The Mikes talk it out and offer some specific pieces, thoughts and tips!
 
 
00:00 - Three cool updates!
 
8:35 - It’s okay to have taken a break
 
12:00 - Breaks - do we need them? How to use them?
 
16:08 - Why do I have to be in shape?
 
 21:34 - What does it take to get in shape?
 
30:08 - Mike T. benchmark pieces
 
 34:04 - Mike C. benchmark pieces
 
39:24 - Building strength like weight lifting
 
45:45 - Be better than you were at the end of last year
 
 
49:31 - How do you not get bored?
 
 58:43 - The Mikes share their exercises
 
1:04:40 - Getting organization and systems in place
 
 1:15:11 - Mike C’s non-performance skills to be in shape
 
1:17:50 - Saving $
 
1:20:14 - Mike T. revisits organization priorities 

22 | Musical Taste

The Mikes try to unpack a touchy subject: musical taste!  What is it? How do you get it? How do you develop it? and more!

21 | Recording Debrief

The Mikes just recorded a few pieces (to be released…sometime)! Have you ever completed a recording session and thought “Did I do this right? Does anyone else feel the same way as I did?” 
 
The Mikes break down their session and get into some deep philosophical topics about the recording process.