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This DrumTalk features legendary drummer Steve Smith in conversation with Claudio Spieler. They discuss Steve’s musical journey, early influences, his years with Journey, as well as jazz, Konnakol, technique and rudiments.
The conversation also touches on the influence of teachers, the importance of lifelong learning, and possible connections to Jim Chapin’s legacy of coordination, independence, and musical freedom.
Alongside the behind-the-scenes stories, Claus will connect Jim’s ideas directly to your own practice: grip and fulcrum, Moeller motion, upstrokes, pull-out, rebound, rudiments, coordination, and musical independence.
The goal is not only to honor Jim Chapin as a legend, but to help you understand his ideas in a practical way, something you can feel in your hands and bring back to your own playing.
Expect a relaxed, inspiring meeting that is part storytelling, part practical workshop, and part tribute to one of the most important voices in modern drumming education.
Join us if you want to understand not only what Jim Chapin taught, but why his ideas still matter every time we pick up the sticks.
What We’ll Cover:
- Jim Chapin behind the scenes — personal stories, humor, and unforgettable teaching moments
- What it was like to study with Jim and experience his teaching directly
- Jim’s approach to grip, fulcrum, rebound, upstrokes, and the pull-out
- Moeller technique through the lens of Jim Chapin, Dom Famularo, and Claus Hessler
- How technical ideas become musical freedom, not just exercises
- Coordination and independence as a creative practice concept
- Rudiments as a living language for drumset playing
- Practical ways to bring Jim’s ideas into your daily practice
Don’t miss this chance to deepen your drumming knowledge and celebrate the incredible contributions of Jim Chapin.
Check other Jim Chapin’s Independence Week event:
