Various Event and Personal blogs http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/index.cfm?forumid=10 en-US FuseTalk Standard Edition 3.2 Build 80405 Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4829 2009-11-19T13:21:27 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4829#comments 0
Below are some shots taken by Chris Stankee (Artist Relations Manager) and Stacey Montgomery-Clark (VP Marketing) while they attended PASIC. Enjoy!


Jack DeJohnette and the new Vault 3-Point Ride that he inspired


Chris Pennie rocks out at his clinic




Ed Shaughnessy master class


Jack DeJohnette clinic - a full house!




Jack DeJohnette shows Vic Firth the 3-Point Ride


Jack's set-up and the audience patiently waiting


SABIAN's Paul Celucci and Chris Stankee, along with Chester Thompson, Lennie DeMuzio and Stacey Montgomery-Clark


SABIAN's Stacey Montgomery-Clark, with Jack DeJohnette and Chris Stankee


Virgil Donati clinic




Zoro clinic




Neil Peart's kit on the Guitar Center booth!


Diane Downs and her amazing Louisville Leopard Percussionists]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4818 2009-11-17T14:52:41 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4818#comments 0
With the Band of America finals also taking place in Indianapolis this weekend the start of the day was a little slower than the previous two. However, the day was still jam-packed with stuff to do and see and it wasn't long until the exhibition hall was back up to full volume!


The booth, as busy as ever, later in the day

A regular feature of PASIC are the 'FUNdamental' sessions. Covering the basic techniques and ideas for all instruments, they are a great way for students and teachers to pick up tips from professional players and teachers.

Ed Shaughnessy started the day with his drumset fundamental clinic. Ed brilliantly covered his subject in front of a large and attentive audience.


Ed Shaughnessy explains his approach to drumset during his FUNdamentals session

Also presenting a FUNdamentals session was SABIAN's very own Nick Petrella. Covering hand cymbals, suspended cymbals and triangles, Nick expertly covered the technical aspects of each of these instruments. A good number of volunteers were invited on stage by Nick and he soon demonstrated, through them, the basic techniques of all of these instruments.


Nick Petrella on stage during his FUNdamental session

One of the highly anticipated clinics of the convention was Jack DeJohnette's drumset clinic. Needless to say, he didn't disappoint. Immediately afterward, Jack joined us at the booth for an autograph session where his new signature 3-Point Ride garnered a lot of attention.


Jack DeJohnette signing autographs with fans at the SABIAN booth

Almost the last clinic of the convention was given by Virgil Donati. This hugely talented and seemingly multi-limbed drummer completely wowed the audience with his eclectic style of playing.

And then it was all over! Well, there was the small matter of packing down the booth but we got through that quick enough and soon we were leaving the exhibition hall for a well deserved drink!

If you've never been to a PASIC then it's well worth considering and it would be great to see you next year, again in Indianapolis.

We hope you've enjoyed reading our coverage of this year's PASIC. If you weren't able to get there in person, log onto www.sabian.com to hear about all the new products we launched, as well as exploring the forums, artist pages and much, much more.

Written by: Bruce Parry]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4817 2009-11-17T14:42:45 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4817#comments 0
Bringing more international flare to the convention were percussion quartet, Badaboum. All students from the Conservatoire National de Region de Paris, where they study with SABIAN endorser, Frederic Macarez, kicked off the day with an impressive display of quartet repertoire.


Badaboum get Friday off to a great start with there recital performance

While interest on the booth remained at a high pitch, yet more clinics kicked off. For some crazy reason, Chris Deviney's and Nick Ormrod's clinics were programmed at exactly the same time! Go figure?

Both Chris & Nick played to very attentive audiences: the focus of Christopher Deviney's clinic covered playing those rarer instruments that inevitably end up in the hands of percussionists in the orchestra - the hammer, the glass harmonica and the ratchet are just a few examples of the instruments he talked about. Both an amusing and very informative clinic.


Chris Deviney in the middle of his presentation

Nick Ormrod brought his experience from the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, to his clinic covering orchestral snare drum. With his typical dry sense of humour he lead the audience and the participating students through some less well known yet very revealing excerpts.


Nick Ormrod leads a student through some less well known excerpts

Next up were the Louisville Leopard Percussionists lead by Diane Downs. With performances all over the US and with great performers such as Zoro under their belt, they took performing at PASIC easily in their stride. This infectious bunch of youngsters impressed everybody that heard them. Well done, Guys!

The day wound up with the PAS Hall of Fame reception. With some entertaining Latin big-band music to get the room jumping the evening started well. PAS president, Steve Houghton then quietened the room for more serious matters and Micky Hart and Jacques Delecluse were both inducted into the PAS Hall of Fame. While Jacques Delecluse was not present to receive his accolade, Micky Hart was and he gave a very thoughtful and entertaining speech.

Written by: Bruce Parry]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4481 2009-11-13T08:18:07 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4481#comments 0
The booth has been busy, constantly, all day. The Vault Artisan Traditional Symphonic Suspendeds have been of huge interest and admired by all. The table full of triangles has been swamped by people trying them out (and buying!). The prototypes have garnered everything from a subtle nod through gasps to out-loud 'Wow's.


A table full of triangles just waiting to be tried out

Quite often, the first day is quiet(ish - everything's relevant at these kind of events!) as people take stock and try and work out how far they can make their money stretch as they take in all the goodies on offer! It's the next day that we expect things to hot up a bit: not this time - the dial seemed to be stuck on 10 from the start and with no sign of any let-up at all.

As ever we've had many people pop by to say 'Hi' and check out all the new instruments. This year's winner of the SABIAN PASIC scholarship, Sanja Brankovic, was an early visitor to the booth before taking in the sights and sounds of the rest of the convention.


Nick Petrella, Sanja Brankovic & Stacey Montgomery-Clarke early on this morning at the booth

I managed to catch a little bit of Maraca2's performance - it was good to see these two guys from the UK bring some credibility to the 'International' in 'PASIC'. They packed out their venue with at least 350+ people and standing room only. Letting their playing do the talking they 'brought the house down' and were very well received. Well done, guys. Nice to see you flying the flag for Blighty [I'm a fellow Brit, too].

Zoro and Daniel Glass's joint clinic was fantastic as they brilliantly explained the roots of the shuffle and how it still plays a huge part in today's modern music. Zoro's cymbals sounded great and (with his ever-present hat not slipping an inch) he demonstrated his prowess at this style of music to a very attentive and appreciative audience.


Zoro (complete with hat) during his clinic

Well, that pretty much wraps up Day 1 here. If Day 2 & 3 match up to this one, we're in for a great and memorable time here at PASIC.

If you're here in Indy with us, do come by and say 'Hi' and also add your comments to the blog about all you're seeing, hearing and experiencing.


Written by: Bruce Parry]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4475 2009-11-12T08:12:45 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4475#comments 0
With the 'crew' arriving last night from various points in North America (and mostly avoiding delays caused by hurricane Ida) we started set-up shortly after 9. It always feels a little daunting when you walk into a huge exhibition hall and see all the booth components strapped to a large number of pallets; often the thought runs through your mind that there's no way all that will get set-up in time. However, the structure soon started to take place and everybody is busy setting up cymbal trees, gong stands, crotales and goose-neck stands (for the new Vault Artisan Traditional Symphonic Suspended - more on these great new models later on).


The booth early on in the day - slowly but surely taking shape

It's not unusual for many friends from the industry to pop by during set-up and say 'Hi' and in some cases get some help with their mobile phone - SABIAN's Nick Petrella seen here helping Steve Weiss!


Nick Petrella helps get a number 'into' Steve Weiss's phone

We've got some great graphics for this year's show - here's one of the new displays for the Vault Artisan Traditional Symphonic Suspended. I think we're going to have to reduce the Vault Artisan Traditional Symphonic Suspended to the acronym 'VATSS' or you'll get bored reading it and my fingers will tire of typing it!


The photography of the Vault Artisan Traditional Symphonic Suspendeds looks stunning on this display

More graphics go up, together with the cymbal-trees that will hold over 30+ prototype cymbals created in the Vault in Meductic especially for the show.


The large arches at each end of the booth look great with the large graphics

Inevitably, something gets forgotten and this year it was some rope to suspend the Vault Artisan Traditional Symphonic Suspendeds on the gooseneck stands. Thanks to Chris Stankee, who (heroically?) ventured out into deepest Indianapolis to find some, we now have everything ready at the Vault Artisan Traditional Symphonic Suspendeds display.




The new Vault Artisan Traditional Symphonic Suspendeds ready for Thursday morning

Finally, everything seems to be in place. We're all off to prepare for tomorrow. Pop back to catch all the news during the rest of the week and if you are planning on coming to the event make sure you come by the booth and check out all the cymbals on display and say 'Hi'.


All ready for the start of the show on Thursday

Written by: Bruce Parry]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4420 2009-10-30T09:56:38 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4420#comments 0
Check out the blogpost on vaulttour.com HERE!

Also, don't forget that you have until November 7, 2009 to rate prototypes for a chance to win your dream SABIAN cymbal set-up. Find out more HERE!]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4404 2009-10-28T13:07:20 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4404#comments 0 Check out the full blog post on vaulttour.com HERE!]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4389 2009-10-26T13:39:28 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4389#comments 0 HERE!]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4348 2009-10-22T15:28:40 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4348#comments 1 Had a great time on 10/16 at Dale's. Katie and Lane were great in helping my daughter Delaney with all of her questions for the science project.
Thanks for everything, Sabian and the gang at Dale's.

Bob C.]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4348 2009-10-19T15:44:22 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4348#comments 1
Check out my full blog post on vaulttour.com HERE!]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4338 2009-10-16T23:58:50 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4338#comments 0
We had a great time - thanks to everyone who came out to support SABIAN!

Check out the full blogpost HERE!]]> Stephen Lawson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4322 2009-10-15T20:22:10 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4322#comments 1
Thank you guys so much!!]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4323 2009-10-14T12:30:45 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4323#comments 0
Here are some shots from the Vault Tour stop at Indoor Storm. We had a great day and met a lot of interesting people. Check out the full blog from Greg Zeller on VaultTour.com

-Katie]]> Stephen Lawson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4322 2009-10-14T00:28:14 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4322#comments 1
Here are some shots from today's Vault Tour stop at Richmond Music Center. We had a great day and met a lot of interesting folks. Check out the blog on VAULTTOUR.com tomorrow!

-Katie]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4319 2009-10-13T11:16:06 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4319#comments 0
Here are some great shots from Sunday's Vault Tour stop at Campbell's Morrell Music in Johnson City, TN.

Check out a blog post from Greg Zeller about the day's event HERE!]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4318 2009-10-13T10:46:10 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4318#comments 0
Here are some great shots from Saturday's Vault Tour stop at Fork's Drum Closet in Nashville, TN.

Check out a blog post from Chris DeLisa about the day's event HERE!]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4317 2009-10-13T09:48:44 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4317#comments 0
Here are a lot of great shots from Friday's Vault Tour stop at Memphis Drum Shop in Memphis, TN.

Check out a blog post from Chris DeLisa about the day's event HERE!]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4290 2009-10-08T14:16:50 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4290#comments 0
Here are a lot of great shots from yesterday's Vault Tour stop at Mom's Music in Louisville, KY.

Check out a blog post from Terri Shaw about the day's event HERE!

Photo credits: Terri Shaw and Myron Koch 2009]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4289 2009-10-08T11:49:48 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4289#comments 0
Please check out the pics below from Tuesday's stop at Stebal Drums in Willowick, OH.

Go to VaultTour.com for a blog from the event from Terri Shaw!]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4281 2009-10-07T22:08:26 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4281#comments 1
Nick Gajewski
Pulaski, WIsconsin]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4281 2009-10-06T15:07:03 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4281#comments 1
Yesterday we were in Lansing, MI for our 8th Vault Tour stop at Marshall Music. Enjoy the pictures below!

Check out Mark Love's blog post HERE!]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4271 2009-10-05T08:36:35 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4271#comments 0
Here are some pics from the first US Vault Tour stop in Detroit, MI!
Enjoy

Read Mark Love's full blog post HERE!

Next up ... Marshall Music in Lansing, MI...]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4270 2009-10-05T08:11:08 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4270#comments 0
Here are some pics from the last stop on the Canadian leg of the Vault Tour! Check out Terry Ryan's full blog post HERE!]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4247 2009-10-01T10:31:17 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4247#comments 0
Below are some pics from the most recent Vault Tour stop at Long & McQuade in Oshawa, ON. Check out Terry Ryan's full blog post HERE!]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4246 2009-10-01T07:55:20 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4246#comments 0 HERE!!]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4231 2009-09-29T08:02:16 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4231#comments 0 HERE!!]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4217 2009-09-27T00:12:32 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4217#comments 1
Brian]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4217 2009-09-26T22:45:18 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4217#comments 1
Since I'm having slight technical difficulties with the blog on vaulttour.com, today's wrap-up is here! I also accidentally deleted my blog post just a few minutes ago - so here I go again for a second time...

It was a chilly, but sunny day in Moncton, NB, on our second 2009 Vault Tour stop at Long & McQuade. We were busy with customers, even before we were finished setting up - which is a great start!

The first customer of the day - Brian Vienneau (check out his Moncton based metal band Cold Shadow here: coldshadows.tk) - walked away with some great finds - including a cymbal that he hand-hammered himself!

Next up was Luke Anderson who is a Twitter contest giveaway winner - he came in to test some prototypes, and pick up his prize - an 8" Chopper - we hope you enjoy it!

Many people had the rare opportunity to have crafsman Allie Cougle lathe and/or hand hammer a one-of-a-kind cymbal - this included Brian Vienneau, brothers Dakota and Justin Pauley, and Mike Mallais.

The day ended as Scott Dincorn was picked to receive the $100 coupon towards a SABIAN purchase - he got the phone call and came back to the store to pick up an awesome prototype.

Thanks to everyone in the Moncton area who supported today's stop - and a special thanks to Randy Clarke and his staff at Long & McQuade for hosting us.

I'll be heading home tomorrow, but I'll be meeting back up with the team in Richmond, Virginia on October 12th. The rest of the Vault Team continues on to Quebec tomorrow... check out Gagne&Frere in Quebec City on Monday!


-Katie]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4212 2009-09-25T21:51:08 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=4212#comments 0
We have just finished our first stop on the 2009 SABIAN Vault Tour at Long & McQuade in Halifax, NS. Check out the official blog here: www.vaulttour.com, but take a look at some pics from the day below Enjoy!

-Katie]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3935 2009-08-09T10:43:51 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3935#comments 0
The evening started off with the US Marine Drum & Bugle Corps in exhibition for about 25 minutes, followed by several award presentations (Volunteer of the year, World Class director of the year, etc).

The competition officially started at 6:40pm, and continued to 10:25pm. Around 6:30pm I caught up with Jerry Carpenter and the pit of the Boston Crusaders while they practiced before the big show. The sun was hot and the parking lot was busy with transports and people, but they blocked it out and practiced one last time before the competition.

The Boston Crusaders, with the program The Core of Temptation, under the direction of Tom Spataro, Omar Carmenates and Andy Beal had a strong showing, coming in 7th place. Congratulations!!!

Well, it's time to wrap up and start packing for the journey home this evening. If you were not able to make it to Indianapolis this year, I strongly encourage you to come next year for DCI 2010 - this was my first drum corps event and I'm so glad to have been part of it!

On the road again...
-Katie]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3930 2009-08-08T15:34:04 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3930#comments 0
I just got back from the DCI 2009 Open Class Finals and SABIAN was very well represented!! Congratulations to all 12 corps who made it through to the finals, and to all those who participated in DCI this year - you should be very proud of yourselves.

So, what were the final scores??? Here they are ...

12th Place - Memphis Sound from Memphis, TN

10th Place - Legends from Kalamazoo, MI

Legends also won several awards, including:

2009 Most Improved Corps

2009 Outstanding Director - Ibe Sodawalla

2009 Jim Jones Leadership Award (Drum Major) - Kelly Coach

There was a tie for 6th place, between 2 SABIAN corps:

6th Place - Raiders from Wayne, NJ.

6th Place - Revolution from San Antonio, TX.

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!

Later on this evening, the World Class Finals will take place - good luck to the Boston Crusaders!

More updates tomorrow

-Katie]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3926 2009-08-07T21:16:23 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3926#comments 0
Today was a busy day watching the open class semi-finalists, and then running out to the parking lot to meet our corps with t-shirts after they performed. They all did an awesome job - my first DCI is going to be a memorable one!

First up was Dutchboy from Kitchener, Ontario (Canada) with a program called Bizarro, under the direction of Doug Darwin, Steve Meikle and Joe Shuker (Percussion Caption).

It was great to see some fellow Canadians!

www.dutchboydrumcorps.com

Next were the Colts Cadets from Dubuque, IA with Lullaby & Good Nightmare, under the direction of Vicki Schaffer and Ronnie LaGrone (Percussion Caption Head & Arranger).

www.colts.org

Next up was Legends from Kalamazoo, MI, performing Incrementum with selections from Maurice Ravel's ballet, Daphnis et Chloe, under the direction of Ibe Sodawalla and Landon Ewers (Percussion Supervisor).

www.legendspaa.org

Memphis Sound from, yep, you guessed it, Memphis, TN, performed Celebrations...Rebirth of a Planet, under the direction of Ryan Pride

www.memphisdrumcorps.org

Late in the morning, the Raiders from Wayne, NJ performed Isle of Hope, under the direction of Robert Villanova and Chris Marousek (Percussion Caption Head)

www.raidersdbc.org

The last SABIAN corps to perform in the Open Class semi-finals was Revolution from San Antonio, TX. They performed ElementALL, under the direction of
Johnny Rodriguez and Carlos Botello (Percussion Caption)

www.revolutionypa.org


***


Tonight, the Colts from Dubuque, Iowa and the Boston Crusaders from Boston, MA performed in the semi-finals in the World Class category. They will find out later tonight if they have made it through to the Finals, taking place tomorrow evening. Both performances got standing ovations - excellent job!!

Good luck to all 40+ drum corps participating in the Finals tomorrow morning and evening!

-Katie]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3924 2009-08-06T22:46:10 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3924#comments 0
Today I took in the World Class Quarterfinals where 22 corps competed for a chance to place and move onto the semi-finals (taking place tomorrow evening).

First up was Pacific Crest from Diamond Bar, CA, with the performance El Corazon de la Gente under the direction of Stuart Pompel and Matt Altmire (Percussion Caption).

Quick fact: At four weeks long, the corps' 2007 tour is the longest in corps history.

The Colts, from Dubuque, IA, took the field around 7pm with a performance entitled Fathoms , under the direction of Greg Orwoll and Max Mullinex (Percussion Caption)

Quick fact: Iowa's governor has declared the Colts as "Iowa's Ambassadors of Music".

The Boston Crusaders were the last SABIAN endorsed corps of the night with a program called The Core of Temptation, under the direction of Tom Spataro, Omar Carmenates and Andy Beal.

Quick fact: For many years, the corps ended each year's show with "Conquest" (from the film, "Captain from Castile") and since has hidden snippets of this signature melody in their musical program.

CONGRATS to the Boston Crusaders' percussion ensemble who won the Individual & Ensemble competition yesterday!!!

More to come tomorrow from the World and Open Class semi-finals!

Pictures will be going up tomorrow

-Katie]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3922 2009-08-06T10:34:16 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3922#comments 0
Well, I finally made it to Indianapolis, Indiana after being re-routed through Atlanta, Georgia - what a BUSY airport! Today is dedicated to getting used to the area, finding out where our corps are practising, and handing out some t-shirts.

More updates to follow!

-Katie]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3912 2009-08-04T10:46:30 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3912#comments 0
After taking a quick break to walk a signed cymbal from Chad Smith back to the hotel (for a lucky winner named Samantha), we enjoyed listening to Our Lady Peace stage-side. The legendary guitarist Joe Satriani also took in some of the show, standing about 3 arm-lengths away. As he rounded the corner to stand backstage, he donned his usual hat and sun glasses. OLP always puts on a good show, and this was no exception. Raine made sure to make the security guards nervous by climbing on the stage and running through the audience.

After OLP left the stage, servicemen and women took the stage with Minister of National Defence (and MP of NS), Peter MacKay, to say a few words about their work and encourage those who are away from home and overseas.

While we waited for Chickenfoot to hit the stage, we hung out with Finger Eleven - a talented group of guys who were very welcoming. When we heard the audience scream, we ran to the stage to watch the super group play... WOW, what a show!!! The other bands looking on were in awe of their musical heroes...their jaws dropped to the floor while watching Chad do his thing on the kit (those SABIAN's sounded beautiful ), and while Joe shredded the guitar. It's unheard of to have this much talent on one stage - and Halifax was their first show in North American since their European tour - what an honor!

Chickenfoot was untouchable with lots of security, so I didn't get to meet Chad, but maybe next time! After they left the stage, I introduced myself to III, Chad's drum tech - while walking away, he called out my name, and handed me a pair of Chad's sticks from the show ... WOW, what an awesome end to an incredible day!!!!!

-Katie]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3910 2009-08-04T00:01:04 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3910#comments 0
My apologies for the lame blog post title, but it's true! Halifax is a great city, and everyone involved in the Canadian Forces Halifax Rock Fest should be proud. It was a wonderful way to show the troops our support (a video of the performances will be sent to all Canadian bases overseas).

Sunday afternoon started off with Pink Thunder, a "sassy female driven rock" group from Nova Scotia - they won the Next Great Atlantic Rock Band contest to rock on the same stage as some greats. They held their own with a few original tunes mixed in with some covers, including "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" (www.pinkthunder.ca).

Next up were Halifax born and raised rockers Sloan - they played all of their hits, and songs from the new album Parallel Play. In the middle of their performance they were joined on stage by members of the local Q104 radio station who inducted the band into their hall of fame - they have supported Sloan since the beginning ... Congrats on 20+ years and counting! (www.sloanmusic.com)

The hot sun was no match for the enthusiasm of Finger Eleven! I was fortunate to go backstage during their performance and watched the rockers as they prepped before going onstage (very quiet and focused). Once they hit the stage, they were in full rocker mode - they are awesome musicians and great performers. Later in the evening I spoke with (SABIAN) drummer Rich Beddoe (http://sabian.com/EN/artists/Rich_Beddoe.cfm) - a very down-to-earth person who made sure that my guest and I were taken care of. He has been with SABIAN for 8+ years and couldn't say enough about the best cymbals in the world He is most excited about their upcoming trip to Afghanistan to play for the troops - they leave on September 5th and will be staying in Kandahar for 6 days. The best of luck from the SABIAN family!

That's it for tonight folks - with a sunburn from yesterday and after a long drive back home today, it's time to rest my head. But, there is much more to come tomorrow ... including the awesomeness that is CHICKENFOOT!!!!!!

-Katie]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3901 2009-08-02T10:02:16 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3901#comments 0
I'm in Halifax right now, waiting for Halifax Rock Fest to start in a few hours. Chickenfoot (Chad Smith) and Finger Eleven (Rich Beddoe) are some of the awesome acts that are on the bill.

If you're in the Halifax area, the weather in beautiful today, so you should stop by the show! More to come later on, once the show starts.

-Katie]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3810 2009-07-17T08:23:58 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3810#comments 0
...any future drummers in the crowd? We hope so!



About Big Brothers Big Sisters Carleton-York:
In 1982 Carleton County started it's Big Brothers Big Sisters Programs. In 1991 the programs were extended to include the the community of Nackawic and York County.

Today, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Carleton-York is one of about 180 agencies across Canada. Their professional staff works with the guidance of a local volunteer Board of Directors to serve children in the community.

The majority of the money needed to implement programs is raised through a variety of local fund development initiatives, including the annual Bowl for Kids Sake and Festival of Trees Campaigns. They only receive a small, annual grant from the federal government through Family and Community Services.

Over the years the agency has helped a great number of children in the community. With the support of Carleton County, York County and Nackawic they will continue "building futures through friendships".

For more information, Call 506-328-2094
E-mail to find out more at bbbscy@nb.aibn.com]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3799 2009-07-15T13:10:57 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3799#comments 0
After the performance, SABIAN's Terry Ryan presented a donation to War Child Canada on behalf of the factory.

Liam and Dan start their coast to coast busking tour in support of War Child Canada this Saturday, July 18th in St. John's, NL . That's right - free concerts across Canada this summer!

From Liam's website:

Liam Titcomb grew up backstage so, not a surprise, when he signed to Sony Music when he was 15. His self titled debut on Columbia garnered a Canadian Music Radio Awards nomination for the Best New Solo Artist 2005 with Top 10 & 20 singles. His sophomore album Can't Let Go recorded in Nashville earned rave reviews across the country.

"...like a strong pull on an engine cord - it fires up right away and never stops sparking. ...what lingers is Titcomb's utterly captivating voice, lyrics and distinctive musical energy..."

Liam's relationship with War Child started in 2003, when his song "War" became part of the Peace Songs album which included Bruce Cockburn, Elvis Costello, Paul McCartney, Leonard Cohen etc. He has always been honored to take part in any of War Child's projects like the Busking For Change events that took place last year. He is thrilled to be able to step up to the plate and Busk Coast to Coast this summer.

For as long as he can remember he has been conscious of the power of music to bring joy, spark awareness and create change. For Titcomb, fundraisers are a staple diet - he was raised on them. Remembering one Christmas day, age 11 and playing music outside in 10 degree weather for the homeless people of Toronto's Tent City, he jokes about "what it might have been like to have been raised in a less socially conscious environment".

Titcomb believes that "Every one of us can make a difference - if we try. This tour is NOT about celebrity - it is about you and me helping out a little where we can. Want to join the TEAM and see what we can do together?"

http://www.liamtitcomb.com/warchild/

http://www.liamtitcomb.com/]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3428 2009-05-12T08:22:21 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3428#comments 0 RHYTHM X of Columbus, Ohio, under the direction of Craig Dunn, Andrew Markworth and Diaz Clark won GOLD in the Independent World Finals at WGI 2009. CONGRATULATIONS!!! The gold-medal performance entitled "Touch" received two standing ovations during the Saturday night finals.

Here are a few shots of their incredible performance...





This sums up the feeling within the ensemble...


Proud Rhythm X member...


Members of the Rhythm X cymbal line, with SABIAN's Katie Robinson and Ann MacNally, Diaz Clark of Rhythm X, and Greg Zeller of SABIAN.





SABIAN would like to congratulate all teams involved in the 2009 Winter Guard International Sport of the Arts World Championships! As shown throughout the championship week, your hard work has certainly paid off.

I would like to personally thank the SABIAN team - Ann MacNally, Greg Zeller and Stacey Montgomery-Clark who! I met hundreds of wonderful people that made my first official SABIAN event very memorable - thanks to everyone who stopped by the booth to say hello and ask questions.

A final wrap-up article will appear on www.sabian.com this week - stay tuned for more pictures from the event.

]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3427 2009-05-12T08:21:03 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3427#comments 0 Father Ryan High School has won SILVER in the Independent Open Class. CONGRATULATIONS!!


Father Ryan High School


Tyler Junior College placed ninth in the Independent Open Class, under the direction of Tom McGowan. The ensemble, which has been in competition for only three years had an awesome performance. Great job guys!




Tyler Junior College


The SABIAN booth was buzzing when Dennis Delucia, Matt Savage and Amy Savage stopped by for an autograph signing.




Dennis Delucia (Educator/Drum Corps), Amy Savage (Percussion Specialist) and Matt Savage (Drum Corps Specialist)

Stay tuned for the Scholastic and Independent World Finals results tomorrow morning. Good luck to all SABIAN groups currently taking part in last minute practice, and to those who are on stage right now:

Plymouth Canton HS
Centerville HS
Ayala HS
Center Grove HS
Odyssey Percussion
Surround Sound
Timber Creek Independent
Gateway Percussion
North Coast Academy
Redline
Pulse Percussion
Rhythm X
]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3426 2009-05-12T08:18:48 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3426#comments 0 Ayala High School from Chino Hills, California has won GOLD in Percussion Scholastic Concert World, under the direction of Ike Jackson.


Ayala members congratulating each other and calling loved ones.



SABIAN's VP of Marketing, Stacey Montgomery-Clark with some of the winners from Ayala HS


If that's not enough, we are also very excited to announce that Franklin Central High School has won BRONZE in the Percussion Scholastic A Finals, under the direction of Dan Fyfe.


Here is Franklin Central, along with Dan Fyfe, Stacey Montgomery-Clark (SABIAN) and Greg Zeller (SABIAN) on the far right.



The chaos of all the winners.

The Percussion Independent and Scholastic World Finals are tomorrow... stay tuned!

Also, stop by our booth tomorrow (Saturday) at 12:30pm for an autograph signing - come meet Dennis Delucis, Matt Savage, Ralph Hardimon and more!!

Stay tuned for more coverage on today's events later in the week.

-Katie and Team SABIAN at WGI]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3425 2009-05-12T08:16:45 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3425#comments 0



Members of Plainfield High School having fun at the booth

We checked out several performances throughout the day - great job to all those involved!

Franklin Central High School put on a great performance entitled "Timber Tamber"



In the late afternoon I headed over to the Nutter Center to meet up with the Twin Cities Area Independent Percussion Ensemble (TCAI). I was fortunate to be able to watch their outdoor practice session.



They played later in the evening in the Percussion Independent A Preliminaries...



Legend Independent performed in the same category...




Congratulations to all those who have moved on to the next round of competition in their category.

The A Class Finale is tomorrow night, so watch for updates on Saturday morning!

Also, come by the booth early tomorrow (opens at 11am) for more surprises - don't miss out!

Keep on rockin'

-Katie, Ann & Greg

FYI - expect a new face at the booth tomorrow - Stacey Montgomery-Clark (VP Marketing) will be joining the team for the remainder of the week!

]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3424 2009-05-12T08:15:23 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3424#comments 0 Although he arrived late (sure, we'll blame it on the delayed flights, lol) the booth could not have come together without his help!

Okay, I know what you are thinking, "Enough about the boxes and the booth! Get to the competition already!" Here you go ...

Thousands of participants have been practicing for months for their chance to become percussion world champions. The competition starts tomorrow at 9am at the University of Dayton Arena. If you are in the area, be sure to check out the amazing performances and drop by our booth to say hello to Ann and Greg (to compliment us on our box cutter free booth), try out cymbals, and pick up some free swag (new items each day!).

Good luck to all performers!!

I'll be in the parking lot taking pictures, and interviewing SABIAN endorsed ensembles.

See you all in a few hours.

-Katie and the SABIAN WGI team





]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3423 2009-05-12T08:13:59 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3423#comments 0
Two of the three SABIAN team members have arrived in Dayton, Ohio! We had a rainy stop in Detroit, and Greg had weather delays, so he will be getting in tomorrow... just in time for booth set-up!

Wednesday will be a busy day of getting our bearings, setting up, and meeting lots of great people - hope to see you all there!

Stay tuned ... I'll be posting pictures of our booth tomorrow.
]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3422 2009-05-12T08:12:40 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3422#comments 0
Next stop ... Dayton!]]> Katie Robinson http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3421 2009-05-12T08:10:16 -05.00 http://www.sabian.com/fusetalk/blog/blogpost.cfm?catid=408&threadid=3421#comments 0 Only one week left...

While the ensembles are getting in their final week of practice, the SABIAN team is prepping for their trip to Dayton. Myself, Ann MacNally (International Promotions Supervisor) and Greg Zeller (Sabian Regional Manager, Eastern Region) will be in attendance at this year's show.

This is my first WGI show, so I'm doing a lot of research in preparation for our hectic schedule next week.

Back to it!

-Katie ]]>