Several of you reached out regarding an in person Tuning Seminar that could be broadcast live as well. We are looking into the logistics of that and will announce a date soon.
Also excited to host our first ever drum clinic featuring Mark Kelso. If you missed it, we promise to do another one soon. If you were in attendance, please share your experience with us so we can improve.
We are focusing on another Custom Builder who happens to be a Local Waterloo Region Gem – Jordan Gauthier of YC Drums.
Had a chance to chat with Jordan during a rare off time while out Drum Teaching for Silverstein. Here is how it all sifted down:
Hey Jordan. Thanks for taking time to chat with us. Let’s get right to it. How did you become interested in drums?
“I like many of my generation, grew up in the MuchMusic/MTV Era. Immediately fell in love with the music industry. Began on the often used Kitchen Pots and Pans. Eventually, received a snare at 9 years old and a full kit at 10.”
Through High School, Jordan latched on to Alternative, Punk and Skateboarding. It was during this time that he also discovered he was a self proclaimed “Gear Head.” “I really had a fascination with drums, drum gear and quickly realized getting a Part Time Job would allow me to buy drum gear at will. I always enjoyed taking things apart and understanding how they are engineered and function.”
His inquisitive nature also inspired him to research the Custom Drum Craze of the 90s and tinker with drums.
While Jordan decided to take Audio Engineering in College, he immediately recognized that his interest was firmly rooted in drums and drumming. With that, his career in drums, building, restoring, maintaining and playing officially began.
He stepped away from school and began to build some snares and spending time on the road as a drum tech. As those snares sold and players sung his praises, Jordan expanded to full kits.
Since then, he has built kits for;
Loel Campbell – Billy Talent
Tim Oxford – Arkells
Marc LaFrance – Bachman Turner Overdrive
Chino Deville – Jessie Reyez
Adam Paquette – The Glorious Sons
Danny Miles – July Talk
And built Snare Drums:
Brooks Wackerman – Avenged Sevenfold
Jordan Hastings – Alexisonfire
Paul Koehler – Silverstein
You spend quite a bit of time on the road as a drum tech. How has that married with your drum building?
‘To begin let me say, my building drums has served me well as a drum tech.’ He explained that it has allowed him to employee that “Gear Head” in a different way than the linear nature of building.
Really enjoy both aspects of my work life.
He goes on to say; “You have to be a problem solver as well as the drum tech and maintenance guy. Much more is involved in the role than just changing a head or lubricating a kick pedal.” Still he maintains, it has served him well in developing his custom made drums… “I have developed my drums to avoid some of the flaws that can lead to future issues. Much of that wisdom came from what I have learned on the road.”
I asked Jordan where he sees himself in 10 years?
He is certain he will still be working on drums and in the industry. Simply because, the passion flows through his blood and feels that this is a calling. At the same time, he is forever evolving his approach and honing his skills. As long as he is able, Jordan plans to build and refurbish vintage drums and remain available to bands as a tech
What made you decide to partner with Bang On Drum Shop?
“Ironically, I had a real interest in opening something similar to Bang On with a friend. Of course, life got busy and we were unable to get it off the ground.” he said.
We decided to partner with Bang On because we are believers in small shops where real players are available to customers. We liked the attention to detail and personal care. Also liked that the gear they carry is unique and not readily available at any store. Shan is actually playing one of our snares regularly.
Thanks for the insight Jordan and continued success with YC Custom Drums.
Custom Drum Head Artwork Now Available at Bang On Drum Shop.
For those interested in custom drum artwork, please have a look at the stellar work of Maureen Brown. Here is an example of a Bass Drum Resonant Head she completed. Look for a full interview with her in an upcoming issue.
