Sonny Emory's Drumset Camp Hits It Big As Acclaimed Drummers Visit Atlanta

ATLANTA, Ga. — Yamaha Drum Artist and former drummer for Earth, Wind and Fire, Sonny Emory kept the beat with his newly established Drumset Camp, held at Woodward Academy June 5 through June 9. Emory, an Atlanta native who has served as an Adjunct Professor of Applied Percussion at Georgia State University, is the founder of the five-day program.

Campers listen as Sonny Emory demonstrates proper technique.

Centered around hands-on learning, developing discipline, building self-esteem and fostering team work, the camp featured some of the best drummers in the industry, including Herbie Hancock's Bill Summers, Weather Report's Alex Acuna, Eric Clapton's Ndugu Chancler and Santana's Dennis Chambers. Each evening, clinics by these acclaimed artists were offered as part of Emory's program.

In addition, Jack Bell and Bill Wilder of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (ASO) offered important tips to the drummers. Bell, who served as ASO Principal Percussionist for 32 years, discussed drumming rudiments, while Wilder, who has worked as ASO Assistant Principal Percussionist, Assistant Principal Timpanist and Drumset Specialist for 38 years, explained the importance of keeping time in a metronome studies workshop.

Camper Erik Davis shows off his skills in a student performance.

Emory's camp attracted the attention of not only artists, but drummers of all ages from a variety of states as well. With 50 participants, the inaugural program involved musicians between the ages of 11 and 51 from Michigan, New Mexico, California, Tennessee, Alabama, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Georgia.

"My staff and I know the importance of music in a child's education," Emory said. "We felt the need to share the techniques we've learned over the years to help students become better musicians."

Campers get their groove on with Bill Summers

Demonstrating its commitment to the community, Yamaha Drums donated six drum sets to the camp, which enabled the campers to have actual hands on experience.

"Educating young musicians is a top priority," said Joe Testa, international artist relations manager, Yamaha Drums. "It is an honor to work with Sonny and play a role in his successful drumming program."

Scholarships and financial aid were also available for qualifying students. For more information on the camp, please visit www.sonnye.com or call 1-888-SonnyE4U (1-888-766-6934).

For more information, write Yamaha Corporation of America, Pro Audio & Combo Division, Drum Products, P.O. Box 6600, Buena Park, CA 90622; telephone (714) 522-9011; email infostation@yamaha.com; visit www.yamahadrums.com.

About Yamaha:
Yamaha Corporation of America manufactures a complete line of musical instruments, professional audio products, customer-driven support products and computer-based products targeted to both the amateur and professional markets.