Dear
Steve,
Although
I have only know you a few short years, I did get to see your 20th
Annual drum contest. I am thoroughly amazed that a guy can play as well
as you play and also the night of your contest, played so with seven
stitches in your thumb. You have done a great service to the Chicago
area and McHenry County in your teachings and playing in such good bands
around the country. They don't make teachers and drummers like you much
anymore.
God Bless
Your Crystal Lake, Neighbor
James C.
-
Thursday, November 05, 2020
Hey
Steve,
I'm
not sure if you remember me?
But
I just wanted to say that I learned a lot of discipline during the time
I studied with you. You taught me how to use discipline and focus to
push myself through the bullshit of music school and that's something I
will forever be grateful for. I learned how to be a firm, but fair,
teacher thanks to you. You're a brilliant musician and I'm glad that I
was able to study with you.
Rodney Rote, Jr.
-
Saturday, April 18, 2020
I
found Steve Fagiano in my searches years ago looking for more
information on my favorite guitarist John Curulewski, formerly of Styx.
I was turned onto the sound of Spread Eagle where I learned who the
drummer was. I am half Italian, so I was very proud to learn that Steve
was of Italian decent...lol!
I
have gone to YouTube countless times late at night and played everything
that's out there from Spread Eagle. I love that timeless mid 70's sound
that was Spread Eagle! Particularly the guitar of JC and that great
drumming of Steve. It's the classic jamming that went on between John
and Steve. To me, it's similar to the cohesion of Kossoff and Kirke, or
Greene and Fleetwood or Curulewski and Panozzo!
I
have been a big fan of the best drummers in music history (never played,
just admired). I was able to learn more about Steve and getting to see
and hear his talents through his videos
I
finally had the courage to reach out to him to tell him how much I
appreciated his talents. He's the most genuine, honest and appreciative
celebrity I've ever come across! He turned me on to some things I never
heard or saw regarding John Curulewski and it's an honor to be a
Facebook friend of his!
Awesome
guy!!!
Steve Watz
Saginaw MI. - Saturday, August 17, 2019
"Steve is great to hear that you're going
to have the 20th drum contest again in Illinois! Let me know if I can help
you in any way. The best of luck and I know the area is glad to have you
back especially Crystal Lake and MCC"
Jeff Williams
Woodstock IL. - Saturday, March 18, 2018
Steve, We first met you in the St. Michaels 63 and
was in traduced to you by Mitch. We kind of lost touch with each other in
1968 when you enlisted in the USMC. But from that day in 66 on, we were
best friends and still are to this day. It’s been a long time Steve and
to this day I still think you are the best drummer I have seen, bar none.
The work you have done over these past years with many drummers is quite
remarkable. The fruits of your teachings is starting to become very
relevant as many are professional drummers and some even traveling the
world. Thanks for all you've done for all who have had the opportunity to
take lessons from you and really get to know you. Don't change as you are
a great guy and care about people. Your 50 + year Friend.
Joey Z
Chicago IL. - Tuesday, August 4, 2015
Dear Steve Your ambition will surely be rewarded some day.
& Of course I will hit your utube's & comment. I always liked your
utube attc.'s. I want you to have the success you've always aimed for.
Drummers seem to be a rare breed and you indeed fit the bill. I love to
see how driven and enthusiastic you are! And I always think of you. The
Lord forces my subconscious to do so! LOL.
A Forever Friend
CW, AZ - Tuesday, July 6, 2015
Hi Steve, When Marielle started drums and then wanted to
take lessons I had no idea who in our area would be the best teacher for
her. My only thought was to go to the Players Bench, so I inquired with
the guys behind the desk and they told me they had two teachers and gave
me the time slots. I picked you (not knowing anything about your
background) because it worked best with our schedule. I remember
Marielle’s first lessons, she was so excited to learn how to hold her
sticks correctly and to know there were rudiments that every drummer
should know. We both left the lesson with confidence that you were the
teacher with whom Marielle would learn a lot. There were times where it
was evident that Marielle did not practice enough, you didn’t come down on
her but found something to lift her up and had her leave her lesson with
enthusiasm to go home and practice, this has been the norm. If it were not
for your excitement about drumming Marielle would have quit a long time
ago. So I just want to thank you for giving so much of yourself to see
that Marielle is successful, she is at a level that she never thought she
would achieve. It was a 50/50 chance with the drum instructor and we both
know this could have turned out differently if you had not been her
teacher. Because of You Marielle has the enthusiasm to keep going. With
sincere gratitude,
Carol, Marielle and Dave
- Mon. 27 Apr 2015
Hello L/ Cpl. Fagiano, I first met you in the
Royal Airs in 65 and was in traduced to you by John Williamson. From the
time I first met you I thought “This is one crazy dude. We kind of lost
touch with each other in 1967 and 68 when I had joined the Vanguard. The
next time I saw you was in Washington DC when I arrived at the Marine
D&B. I arrived as late as I could because I didn’t have to be there
until midnight. I checked in and was escorted to the Squad Bay and shown
my rack. I was unpacking when all the sudden all the lights came on and
some Corporal was screaming orders and everyone was up in their underwear
standing at attention screaming YES SIR, YES SIR! I about craped in my
pants and stood there at attention until I saw you come around the corner
laughing your axx off and everyone else broke into laughter, I was
standing there knowing you were behind the whole thing. From that day on
we were best friends and still are to this day. It’s been a long time my
friend and to this day I still think you are the best drummer I have seen
in my life and a great friend. Cheers,
Tom O
Indy. IN - Mon, Mar, 30 2015
Steve. Sad to hear you will be leaving the state,
but understand. It has been a pleasure being involved in the contests,
clinics that Dylan and I have been fortunate enough to be a part of and
all the many lessons over the years. It am happy to have gotten to know
you and value the friendship we have developed! Best wishes and success in
AZ!! : )
Cynthia
Crystal Lake, IL - Sat, 14 Mar 2015
I spent a good deal of my life dreaming about
playing drums. When I was able to get my first set. I did what I could to
become a better drummer. But after a while I felt I needed some lessons
and that's when I met Steve Fagiano. He gave me the skills that I needed
to move to the next level and for that I will always be grateful. Many,
many years have since past and I have never forgotten the rudiments he
taught me. Although the style he relayed to me was a great style I have
since reached out for more techniques. But, the amazing things Steve
taught me enabled me to achieve my ultimate goal to be in a band that will
be successful. Thank you so much Steve, for all you have done for me. Your
teachings will live on through my current and future goals with 2 IN THE
CHEST.
Thanks Rachel
Phx, AZ - Monday, Jan. 25, 2015
Hi Steve, I am here on your guest book share a few
thoughts with you and the others who visit your website.I want you to know
I am thoroughly impressed by your accomplishments and achievements in
music as both a Musician and a Teacher. The first time we met, I came to
you as a student. I had no idea at that time that I would be starting a
friendship with a man whose music and drumming history was so impressive.
I know this information is sorta listed on the "Steve's History" page of
your site, but just to run down some of the things that I have personally
told people about you: At age 16, you were a Champion snare drummer in a
Top Tier Drum Corps: The Chicago Royal Airs*. And then I learned that you
had also marched with The Commandant's Own: The United States Marine Drum
and Bugle Corps. Wow. No, really...Wow! Knowing this about your
background, it's no wonder that your passion for music and drumming would
ultimately lead you to the path of Teacher. Your knowledge and skill of
drum rudiments are among the best of any drummer I have known. And your
belief that they are the Keystone to mastering ANY drumming style was
apparent from our very first lesson. I know it's the same for ALL of your
students. In the role of Teacher you are in the unique position to be a
truly positive force in the lives of your students both younger and
(ahem!) older. It was your passion for teaching and education which lead
you to create the Heat Strokes Drum Contest. With it's emphasis on music
EDUCATION, "Heat Strokes" has endured for over a decade in two different
states, and it's still going strong! I understand your gearing up for the
next compitition soon and I KNOW it will be another success! Your life has
crossed paths with so many amazing and talented people in the world of
music I can't even list them all. In fact, if another man were to tell the
stories about what happened when they met all those people, I would think
they were showing off. But you are never pretentious about it and I really
appreciate that about you! You don't know it, but you have been such a
positive influence on me in many ways. For those reasons and more I thank
you, Steve.
Your friend in the Arizona desert, Steven Goldstein
- Monday, Jan. 19, 2015
Steve , You are one of the best Drummers, I have
been proud to know. & You one of the Best Friends, I have ever known.
William Deters - Road Crew - Chicago's Spread Eagle
- Thursday, Jan. 22, 2015
Dear Mr. Fagiano. I wanted to thank you for encouraging
my son Bob and the guys who participated in your 18th Annual Heat Strokes
Drum contest. As you know, it was Bob's 1st time to try his way in your
contest and he learned that it isn't that hard to perform in front of a
crowd, plus it was a great confidence booster. He also meant some other
drummers to share everything with. It was obvious that you put a lot of
effort into teaching your students and provided them with a chance to
succeedin not only drumming but life it self. From what I seen you were
very thoughtful with all the drummers & also the winners awards and it
was great watching the contest. I hope that next years contest will be a
bigger success. Thank You.
Mr. Martin
- Tuesday, Jan. 6th 2015
Hi Steve, Logan was so excited that you allowed him to be a part of
the contest last night. At the age of (5), He was scared to get up on the
stage, but felt comfortable with knowing that "you" were there to guide him
along. He loved being up on the stage with the older contestants at the
end. Your other students and the other contestants were very kind to him
and included him things. This showed him how much fun it is to be a part of
something. He is looking forward to many more years of drumming (and
playing other instruments). Thank you for teaching him & showing him
that he can do it and helping build his self confidence!!
Carrie McCabe
- Wed, 18 Jun 2014
Steve, As for the college thing I know that you put a great deal
of work into it. Good for you, as you can rest assured that you gave it an
honorable effort of supplying your students with your sincerest work. They
were fortunate to have you ! I was a Concert Band Director and a Marching
Band Director at Brockport State College from 1978 to 1984. These Colleges
are full of rancor and politics to the point of madness at times. Remember
when one door closes another door opens. There are likely better things
ahead for you. Keep your oars in the water. You did all you could have done
for many & your backing off from teaching College, is the best thing you
could have done for your self..
Semper Fi
Bill McGrathy
MU.S.M.C. D&B D.C.- Mon, 5 May 2014
Steve, I wanted to thank you for encouraging my son
Mike and the guys who participated in your 17th annual Heat Strokes drum
contest last June. As you know, it was Mike's 1st time to try his hands
in the contest and he learned that it isn't that hard to perform in
front of a crowd, plus it was a great confidence booster. He also meant
some great other drummers to share everything with. It was obvious that
you put a lot of effort into teaching your students and provided them
with a chance to succeed in not only drumming but life it self. From
what I seen you were very thoughtful with all the drummers & also
the winners awards making sure they received something they could use or
what they needed, it was great watching the contest unfold, & at the
end with each box with the contestants name. I hope that next years
contest will be a bigger & better success. Thank You.
Mr. McCarthy
Marengo, IL- Sat, 15 Feb 2014
Hello Steve, It has been some 3 years since I’ve visited your
web page my friend. I miss you here in Arizona and think about you often.
In fact that is why I’m posting again. Another country group is recruiting
me here in Northern Arizona. After the audition of a couple songs the lead
singer looked over at me and said, “ Ahhh you must have previously worked
with a click track” ? My answer was “Just once, but he’s back in Chicago
& To Fagiano, My Favorite Drummer. I promise, I shall not rush, Even
though you maketh me to layout in tasteful places, You leadeth me beside
cool meter changes, You restored my "one." Yeah, man, though I read
through the trickiest of charts, I will fear no train wrecks, For You are
with it. Your ride and Your snare they comfort me, You setteth up a solo
for me In the presence of mine guitarists, You anointed my lines with
drive, My groove overflowed. Surely good feel and swing will follow me
through all the tunes of each set, And I will dwell in the pocket the
whole gig long."
Gary L. Clemmons
AZ - September 30, 2013
Steve, I want to thank you for encouraging my daughter
Marielle and the guys in the drum line to participate in your 17th annual
heat strokes contest. As you know this was Marielle's second time to try
her hand in the contest and she learned that it isn't that hard to perform
in front of a crowd, plus it was a great confidence booster. It was
obvious that you put a lot of effort into coaching your students and
provided them with a chance to succeed. From what I observed you were
very thoughtful with the winners awards making sure they received
something they could use or needed, it was like watching Christmas unfold
with each box labeled with the contestants name. I hope that next years
contest will be a bigger success.
Carol Prihoda
Crystal Lake, IL - August 2013
Steve, Thanks for keeping the Music Education for drumming
alive in Illinois, with percussion sounds of brass, woodwind and string in
your playing. Music is the universal language of which many don't
understand. Your concept of learning basics through advance techniques,
not to mention the discipline factor is the foundation that lasts a
lifetime, either as a profession or hobby. Keep up the good work and enjoy
the benefits for all who progress through your teaching and experience.
Your Photog. Jeff Williams
Phantom Regiement, McHenry Viscounts, Royal Airs Reunion/Senior Corps
and Group Therapy drum corps. Director of Research-Small Drums Corps
Association
Woodstock, IL. - Tue, 16 Jul 2013
Steve, Holy jeepers! Wow Fagiano, I have not seen the write
up in 40 + years. Isn't it funny how fate has a strange way of moving its
huge hand. This means more to me that you could ever possibly fathom. The
two members to the right in that photo, even though listed as Jim Gleason
and Bob Bryan, are in fact Michael Brittingham (right end) and Ron Chiles
(2nd in from right). Both Jim Gleason, Ron Fess with alternate Bob Bryan
were original members of the Emerald Cadet Drum Quartette winning the New
York Canadian Championships in 64 and 65 but they could not make the
Chicago trip. Therein Michael Brittingham and Ron Chiles took Jim
Gleason, Ron Fess and alternate Bob Bryan's place. The notes sent in on
the original VFW application had Jim Gleason and Bob Bryan's names listed
so that is what was used by the writers of this article, back then, truly
not knowing the difference. Snare drummers there were William A. McGrath,
Jr. and Bill Morrison. Bill Morrison won third place in individual snare
in 1963 at Archer Epler Post American Legion National Individuals in
Philadelphia Pa. I, Bill McGrath, Jr. later won the New York Canadian
Individuals in 1968 just two months before my age out of Junior Corps. I
remember watching the Kilties that day as they beat us fair and square
with a solid performance. We were however solidly ahead of the rest. The
Emerald Cadets was one of many junior corps in the North East who would
have made a "much" bigger impact had Senior Drum Corps just left them
alone. This corps won the NY-Penn Championships 6
times, the Cavalcade of Music in Marion 1967, 3rd in Marion in 64 to a
second place Chicago Royal Airs, and made the final 10th slot in the World
Open in 1966 all while running the Sound Off Shows, a major international
indoor show of that era, from 1960 to 1969. And yes we used Ludwig
Drums exclusively for our entire ever so short history of 1958 to 1969.
Had DCA endorsed an age-line proposal that I had introduced at a DCA
meeting in 1970, as an instructor of the Yankee Rebels, (which Jim
Costello from Hawthorne endorsed as he knew what I was talking about) the
Emerald Cadets would have been resurrected in January of 1972 and
would quite possibly still be here today. Steve Fagiano you are a true
Patron Saint of the drumming world. God Bless you my friend. Semper Fi
William "Bill" McGrath, Jr.
U.S.M.C. D&B
Wash. D.C. - Wed, 3 Apr 2013
Steve, Its been years my friend and you
haven't missed a beat. In fact, You've gotten better. How do you do it.
I just heard about the Percussive Arts Society application. Good Luck
buddy, if they don't get you, there missing out. If there's any body
that can teach and play rudiments on a set, Its You. They will be in
some great company and your the most underrated, hands down and with all
the respect. You need to do it. I seen Mitch & You at the 2002 -
p.a.s.i.c. and add the set. It would be a treat for all that would be in
Indianapolis. The best of luck and if you can, never lay those sticks
down. You'd be doing yourself and the drumming world, a big injustice.
Always Drum Rudiments
Jeff A.
Racine, WI. - January 19, 2013
Steve, I do not get to view You Tube often.
We have a connection in our apartment building for all dwellers. The
sound on this system is turned off. The management does not wish to have
offending parties blaring sound to others who might not wish to hear it.
I do go to the library from time to time where access is allowed with a
headset provided. Steve, you are a joy to watch and hear. I mean, you
bring tears to my eyes. It is such a pleasure seeing you tease that set.
Thank you for your discipline and dedication to this passion, drumming.
You are one of the very best . . . the best of the best. One of these
days I hope to visit in the Chicago area again, and I will hunt you down
for some visiting time. Wish you many continued blessings this Christmas
season, and best of successes in our New Year,
Your Buddy
Minn. Mouse
Fri, Dec 14, 2012
Mr. Fagiano, I would like to take time and
let you know that after watching u-tube hits of you playing and of your
kids drum line. It is quite apparent that you have excellent technique
and training. Whom ever taught you sir must be a excellent teacher. I
also seen on your web site some beautiful pictures of the best era in my
humble opinion of drum and bugle corps. The late 60's. It is absolutely
great that you take the time and effort to not only play championship
drum corps music of that era, but teach it and rudiments to all of your
students. I have a 14 year old grandson and think it would be nice for
him to learn from you. I will be calling you soon Steve and setting up
some lessons for him. Thank you for teaching and entertaining us folks.
The very best to you.
Brian Amoy
Woodstock, IL. Wed. 14th, Nov 2012
Steve, I wanted to thank from the bottom of my heart for all
the work you have done around the Chicago land area. Especially helping me
with marching in the 2002 Royal Air reunion corps. It was a experience I
will never ever forget. I have followed you since the St. Michael
Chi-Angels back in the old town neighbor in Chicago. You have always stood
your ground thru thick & thin. People sometimes get ignorant &
don't understand that a leader leads, no matter what He is thought of. If
some people only new all the work you do with kids of all ages, even me.
God Bless & always stand your ground. kids need you & will respect
there leader. Now or the day they finally grow up.
Mike
Holiday Hills IL, Saturday, September 1, 2012 4:47 PM
Steve, Just wanted to say thanks for all the
support,suggestions and mentoring you have given Greg though the years.
His playing is a direct result of the years of hard work both of you put
in. You have done a great job and I hope you know that both of us
appreciate it. A part of you will always show every time he plays! Also
thanks for giving me the opportunity to help out being the "Dad Roadie"
for the Classic Drum line for many years. It's been a great part of my
life watching all these fine young men and women grow from beginner
percussionists to were many of them are today. Thanks for letting me be
a part of your great organization. Who knows maybe someday I'll learn
how to play. Stay well and happy and stay in touch..
Your Friend
Steve Guelzo "The old dad roadie"
Thu, 29 Jun 2012 7:31
Steve, "Fudgie" Coming in second at v.f.w. snare individuals and scoring
high solo in that individuals you towered over some really fine drummers
that day beating me and Dennis Flynn roundly along the way as well. I did
not play all that well that day coming in 23rd and was uncomfortable
throughout the whole performance. I remember it well ! Our quartette
however played well coming in second. Kilties beat us fair and square
as they were "very" good. The tenor drummer from our "Emerald Cadet"
quartette, Mike Brittingham, came in 11th out of a field of 20. He was a
lightening quick drummer. Our quartette got to Chicago that year but we
could not get the whole corps there because we had to feed the Senior
Corps. We would have made top 15 as we were beating the bottom 5 of those
corps who did make it in 64 and in 65 as well. Thanks for the recap it
brings back many good memories. I have said it a million times before and
will say it until they throw the first shovel of dirt in my face...you
Mid-West really don't know how lucky you were to not have Senior Corps in
your back yard, like the east. We would have never heard of more than half
of those really fine corps like the Royal Airs and others...no
exaggeration! You guys were stellar. I always was a Royal Air fan as
credit was always due to a quality act like that. Thank your lucky stars
that you had a chance to grow, what a fine drum corps.
Bill McGrath
Rochester, N.Y. - Wed, 4 Apr 2012
Steve, Yes! The kids were great and so are you. All your hard work is
really showing so you can be very proud, after only 2 mths. Steve, I also
heard comments from the parade goers, saying how nice it was to have the
pre-parade entertainment. They also said "those boys & girls were really
good and "disciplined" It seems your line is the only ones around playing
real Royal Air & Classic drum corps music. They say alumni corps &
play? who knows what. I am also very proud of Eric's performance and his
incredible growth. Thank you for making this opportunity a reality for
Eric!! Will be nice to see 5 snares, 5 tenors & 5 bass drummers in a few
mths. at McHenry County College drum clinic. With Russ, Greg & your
self.
Lisa
Proud Mom of new drum line drummer
Gary Grove, IL - Sun, 11 Mar 2012
Fagiano !! Way to go Fudge , Just wanted to say your drum line really
rocked Sat. in Elmhurst. Your kids did you proud today & was great to
see Ghilardi out & about. Boy was He into watching your drum line.
Thanks for all your hard work & with 7 new kids in the classic line.
Also Another wild ride w/ you Mike. Never a dull moment. So looking back it
was fun & very exciting . Can't wait to see the full line after another
2 mth.s of work. Looking forward to seeing them at the April 21st. Drum
Clinic.
P.C. Royal Airs 66.67.68.
Island Lake, IL - Sat, 10 Mar 2012
Steve: I so dearly love our Drum Corps and Football conversations. As
you know Mitch invited me to play Snare in the Chicago Royal Airs and to
this day it was the worst mistake I have ever made by not going. Just think,
we could have rammed notes together under the watchful eye and ear of "The
Man". Oh well, I'm happy to be called "Half a R/A" and darn proud of that.
keep up the work with the kids
Bill Clendenon
- December 6, 2011
Steve, I just had to finally leave a note in your guest book. After
all these years seeing you play drums & teach. You've come a long way my
man, and have always gave your all in everything you do. From drum corps to
the many bands you've played in around the country. With teaching at a local
College. The kids & adults who get to learn hands on from you, are
really getting the best. Someday they will all realize how much they have
learned & will pass on the great teachings of a man who truly loves what
he does. Keep it up and never say die.
Frank Hall
Iowa City, IA - Monday, October 31, 2011 10:53 PM
Steve , Just wanted to take the time to send you this write in from
me a old Royal Air friend . I would like to say Thank You for keeping our
classic drum corps music alive. Your Love and dedication for teaching after
all these years is a pleasure to witness . I can't believe how many years it
has been since our drum corps days together . I wish you good luck this
school year teaching drums. Keep on keeping on. Good Luck And God Bless.
Patty DelGreco Smith
- September 6, 2011
Hey Steve, What a fantastic effort you’re putting forth for the
community and being a positive role model for all these kids through your
teaching and drum clinics. Keep up the great work. I would love to be there
at some point to experience attending the Drum Clinic and seeing you and
your kids in action. There is nothing more enjoyable than seeing great
drummers doing their thing. Thanks for keeping me in the loop with what’s
going on in Huntley. Always love the pics. Miss you, buddy.
Sal Carone
Honolulu, HI - August 2, 2011
Hey Steve, Thank you so much for letting me take part in the 2011
Annual Heat Strokes Competition at MCC, I had a great time drumming as well
as watching the other Amazing drummers and getting to know them and their
drumming influences. I have really enjoyed my past few classes with you and
while you have showed and taught quite a few things about the drums and the
different rudiments, you have a really great sense of humor and you are a
great person to talk to. I know that you are one of my idols for drumming
because you take time out of your day to help teach others about playing the
drums and what a great and powerful instrument it is in the music world.
Thanks for everything this Summer and I am looking forward to learning more
about the drums as the summer goes on.
Zach Perron
Harvard, IL - July 7, 2011 8:54:56 PM
Well Steve, From the first time I heard the Chicago Royal Airs 1965
VFW Nationals show, I thought it was the finest drum and bugle corps
performance I had ever heard; the songs selected and arranged by Truman
Crawford, the Mitch Markovich drum parts, and, of course, the phenomenal
brass section and percussion section performance execution. It was
interesting to me that many decades later I read that two people who really
knew drum and bugle corps excellence, Troopers Jim Jones and SCV Gail
Royer both expressed the same highest regard for the 1965 RA VFW show. It
was 1966 when I first heard my cousins' recording of that 1965 performance.
I had no musical training and little musical aptitude, I was in my second
year as a bass drummer in the Los Angeles Chinese Drum & Bugle Corps,
but even I knew that that performance was astoundingly phenomenal. Since
1962 I had been listening to drum and bugle corps recordings of all the
eastern and midwestern powerhouse corps, both junior and senior, and
certainly had my favorites such as the Chicago/Park Ridge Cavaliers, Boston
Crusaders, Blessed Sacrament, Garfield Cadets, Racine Kilties, Madison
Scouts, and Troopers in addition to the Chicago Royal Airs. From that first
time I heard the 1965 RA VFW show, I wanted to know all about it: Why were
the acoustics so good? Why was that recording so good compared to all the
previous drum & bugle corps recordings I had heard? What were the names
of the songs? Who arranged the music? Who wrote the drum parts? What did the
drill look like? What did the uniforms look like? Who were those kids in
horn line and drum line? What did it take to sound that good? Back in the
early-to-mid 1960s, there were few powerhouse/killer drum and bugle corps in
California like those in the Eastern and Midwestern United States, in my
opinion back then. I certainly admired, enjoyed, and respected the
California corps I saw at parades and competitions such as the Lakewood
Ambassadors, Lynwood Diplomats, Velvet Knights, Anaheim Scouts (which became
the Anaheim Kingsmen), Stockton Commodores, San Diego Golden
statesmen/Albacores, Cathay, and two senior corps, the Joaquin Caballeros
and the Imperials. In 2003, I finally learned the names of ALL the songs of
the 1965 RA VFW show in Steve Vickers's "A History of Drum and Bugle Corps",
Volume 2, published in 2003, in Jeff Helgeson's article on the Royal Airs.
The show closer, "Where are you?" was the song I could never learn the name
of until then. I thought then, and still think, that Truman Crawford's
arrangement of that song was the most beautiful show closer and that final
brass crescendo at the very end still makes my spine tingle. Damn, that was
great. And it only took 38 years to find out all of the names. I never saw
the 1965 RA VFW show but then in 2006, Drum Corps World offered DVDs of the
1967 CYO Nationals which included the Chicago Royal Airs show. The recording
was originally black and white videotape and after 39 years the images were
degraded but it was better than nothing. I finally had a sense of what RA
drill from '65 may have looked like. That only took 41 years. To me, the
1965 RA VFW show has always been a milestone/yardstick by which I measured
excellence. Still, when I listen to the 1965 RA VFW show forty-six years
later, I wish I knew how to perform at that level of excellence. The show's
excellence is comparable to Leonard Bernstein's West Side Story, Rodgers and
Hammerstein's The Sound of Music, The Buddy Rich Big Band, The Count Basie
Orchestra. Finally, I would like to see the names of all the kids who were
in '65 RA listed by drum line, horn line, color guard, rifles, sabers, and
drum majors and majorettes. They should be identified and commemorated for
their once-in-a-lifetime accomplishment: It is one thing to
compose/write/design/arrange the show, and quite another thing to PERFORM
that show. The Chicago Royal Airs 1965 VFW Nationals show has provided me
with a lifetime of inspiration and a reminder of what excellence looks and
sounds like. Royal Airs, thanks.
Greg Tong
Costa Mesa, California - Tue, 3 May 2011 14:38
Hi Steve- I attended the MCC Drum clinic last Saturday on a whim,
having not heard of you before but I'm really glad I did because I was
exposed to another level of drumming that I had not known before as a
self-taught chicago rock drummer. What really impressed me was the
traditional drum line that was illuminated by black lights! I was blown away
by their amazing levels of skill, talent, and definitely discipline! Then
when you told us how young they all were...wow wish I had picked up sticks
that young! Anyways just wanted to say it was a great performance, and I can
tell you must pour your heart and soul into these kids for them to want to
work so well together. Look forward to catching the next clinic. Keep
rockin!
Ben
Crystal Lake, IL - Wednesday, April 20, 2011 8:11 PM
Aloha Steve, Love all the new photos and links on the website. I
should make it a point to re-visit your site occasionally to keep up with
the photos- always love seeing the oldie but goodie stuff from the 70’s.
Wish I was there to attend the Drum Clinics. Keep up all the great work
with these kids with your positive influence. Unfortunately, there is no
one here on Oahu of your drum teaching caliber--lots of great musicians, but
no really great music teachers, unless I want to learn the ukulele. Ha-ha.
All the best from all of us in Hawaii. God Bless and best wishes to the
family.
Sal & Colleen
Hawaii - Thursday, April 14, 2011 3:00 PM
Hey Steve....This site is looking better and better my
friend......keep up the good work! A friend for life, not only with R.A.
& the real union, but a brother in the Marines. 2015 is the year. T.D.
Thomas DiPrima
Wednesday, December 29, 2010 11:13 AM
Steve, Just wanted to get a quick email in your guest book & let
you know that all the things your doing around Illinois, are not going
unnoticed. From your classic drum line, private lessons, at MCC &
teaching in Crystal Lake & Huntley IL. Not only nurturing drumming
music, but showing them discipline & real technique in drumming that
will stick with them & hopefully get handed down, just like your
instructors & you have done. Thanks to you & others across the
country for your constant educational teachings. Your rudimental & drum
set teaching methods are unique & thank god there are people like you
still in drumming education. The very best to you and hope to see you in
Indy November for the p.a.s.i..c international convention. Thanks
William Polumoski
November 1, 2010 1:32:53 PM
Steve, Right to the point: You are a great starting point for a kid
to learn. You teach from the same background as mine. Also you are a 3 time
National Champion with the Chicago Royal Airs. I have seen your students
perform and I am impressed with the results as well. Every year you have a
drum contest for beginners and advanced drummers, which every participant
gets prizes from major manufacturers. You make it fun for kids mainly &
very educational. Steve Fagiano, your best bet in your area
Mike Flack
- Iowa - Wed, 21 Jul 2010 10:16:44 PM
Hey Steve, I just wanted to say thanks and that I had a great time at
the competition- Its nice when drummers get together, there's always a good
vibe in the air. Anyway, I'm hoping there will be another one next year
since I'm planning on bringing my A Game :)
Graham Butler
- Wednesday, June 23, 2010 12:40 PM
Hey Steve! Glad to see you're still at it ! I took a trip down memory
lane when I found my "pre-production" Steve Fagiano Rudiments video on VHS
and popped into my VCR this week!! You are an amazing teacher and I still
practice what you were preach! Technique & Control, plus the rudiments
are you forte. Its all the little things & your approach which makes the
big difference. Thanks for everything!
Scott Zimmerman
- Nebraska - May 5, 2010 11:29:17 AM EDT
Steve, The clinic I thought went very, very well. I think your format
of demonstrating via the kids was very effective. Nath & Greg were
perfect ad on's & you were funny as ever with the crowd. Which also is a
God given talent. You worked it like the pro you are, Thanks for all your
hard work and dedication to the kids and the drum line. I am sure the kids
will look back and appreciate it someday. Especially with all the new ones
in there, they did very well & your direction was imperative.
Diane C.L.
- April 21, 2010 11:22:11 AM CDT
Hello Steve, I am honored to see that in April you will be playing
some of our music from the 1961 Chicago Cavalier drum line. I am one of the
" Fabulous 3 M'S" in the that snare line. Best wishes,
Ben Mical JR.
San Marcos, CA. - March 22, 2010 9:50:34 AM CDT
HI Steve, Thank you for your patience and perseverance with Joe and
other young drummers. Joe is a wonderful, loving, kind kid who loves to stay
in his comfort zone. He is pretty hard on himself and doesn't adapt well to
change or new things. It is so good for him to be with you and be
stretched. Even more so for him because he is always with us being home
schooled. Blessings to you!
Kathy
- February 18, 2010 9:57:43 AM CST
Steve
I just thought I'd write a short note in your guest book. I want you to know
that your efforts do not go unnoticed. Putting in the time day after day,
year after year. I hope the parents & children you teach realize what
experience & drumming expertise you bring to them. Knowing you learned
from Mitch Markovich, Ed Roberts and Dick Brown. And Mitch passing it down
from Frank Arsenalt. You couldn't have had any better guys to teach you
technique, control and drum rudiments. Add that with playing with the
Chicago Royal-Airs and the USMC D & B in Washington D.C. With mentors
like Col Truman Crawford, Sie Lurye & Don Devitt to name a few. MCC and
your students are getting something that money can't buy Thanks for sharing
your many years of discipline & drumming here in McHenry County. Looking
forward to the April drum clinic, with your MCC drum line and guest
clinician.
Jeff Berry
Chicago, IL. - December 19, 2009 8:15:16 AM CST
To Fagiano, My Favorite Drummer. I promise, I shall not rush, Even
though you maketh me to layout in tasteful places, You leadeth me beside
cool meter changes, You restoreth my "one." Yeah, man, though I read through
the trickiest of charts, I will fear no train wrecks, For You are with it.
Your ride and Your snare they comfort me, You setteth up a solo for me In
the presence of mine guitarists, You anointeth my lines with drive, My
groove overfloweth. Surely good feel and swing will follow me through all
the tunes of each set, And I will dwell in the pocket the whole gig long."
Gary L. Clemmons
AZ - Thu, 5 Nov 2009 12:20 PM
Hey Steve, Watching your crew today was really a treat. A talent
group to be certain! Thank you for allowing Michael and I to come and watch
a practice.Michael was feeling the drumline! He's ready to work hard for the
privilege of someday participating. So I took him to Guitar Center to get
thicker sticks in preparation for lessons with you and happened to meet a
student of yours (at MCC) who works there. This young college aged fellow
obviously was quite enthused to have you as his instructor. BTW, my own
personal (mom) observation today...you are indeed a great instructor You
keep a really nice balance between setting expectations, challenging the
kids, correcting with seriousness yet not with unkindness and giving them
props. Perfect. As result your kids surely respect you and surely LEARN as
well. My kids have have had musical instruction for over 4 years now on
various instruments/various instructors. I am impressed with how you ran
practice.
Lisa Arvanites
LITH, IL. - Saturday, October 31, 2009 7:40 PM
Steve. You've always been one of my favorite & admired students.
I'm thrilled at all of the things you've accomplished.
I know there are many more great things in your future.God Bless
Mitch M
- September 10, 2009 11:46:00 AM
To My Friend Steve And His Students in The Classic Drum Line. Steve
you recently E Mailed Me a video of your Students playing The Drum Solo of
The Royal-Airs. Their Dedication, Their Disipline, Shows Me they have it in
their hearts, to be The Best They Can Be! First, They must love what they
are doing. Second, To Do Just That, They must have the respect and love for
their teacher. Those fine young adults, have those qualities and should be
proud of their accomplishments!
When I first Played The Video, The Hairs On My Arms Stood-Up! I called My
Wife in to watch at the same time I was hiding tears. At 61 they were proud
tears to watch those Kids perform. I don,t know them, but I am damm proud of
them. My message to them is keep it in your hearts! Dedicate Yourselfs To
Steve, Your Families And, Someday Your Children! You All deserve to be on a
D.V.D. I Would Love To Have One And, I'm Sure Former Fans Of The Royal-Airs
And All Corps Members as Myself a Boston Crusader 1966 And 1967. Finally
Steve You, Have My Vote To The Drum Corps Hall Of Fame! My First Drill
Instructor Harold Murphy In B. Corps Was A Marine Like You And Got All Of
Our Respect.
You created for them a time in their lives, They will never forget! They
Will Remember You For The Rest Of Their Lives As Their Hero Just, Like We
Remember The Colonel! You Must Be Proud Indeed Steve . God Bless And Keep On
Drummin
Robert F. Lucas B.C.
- Mon, 17 Aug 2009
My husband and I attended the McHenry County College Drum Clinic
April 18th, 2009. This was our first time attending....WOW... What an
experience. We truly got to see first hand the talent, dedication, and
professionalism that Steve has with his students. What talented, talented
students. We have never seen anything like it. They are Fantastic. We
couldn't believe all the various ages of the drum line. We will go again and
we can't wait for the Heat Strokes Drum Contest. We don't know how they are
going to come up with a winner. Everyone is so talented.
We have known Steve since he was a young boy in Chicago when he first
started out with St. Michaels - Chi Angels Drum Corp. My brother Frank was
part of the Drum Corp, so it became part of my life for a very long time. My
brother has since died of cancer, but it is nice to still be in touch with
so many of his friends who are still involved with drums or drum corps in
one way or another. Love you Steve
Vivian & Doug
Lisle, IL. - Monday, May 4, 2009 12:17 PM
My 9-Year old son has been taking lessons from Steve for about two
years now and the experience has been phenomenal. Steve has taught him to
play both drum set music and drum line music and in the short time Steve has
been teaching my son the development is unbelievable. Steve does a great job
of teaching the correct technique and discipline while making it fun. I
don’t think my son even realizes half the stuff he learns from Steve because
they both really enjoy the experience and I enjoy watching the interaction.
If you live in the McHenry County area and have a child who shows any
interest at all in learning music or drums, Steve is the best you will find.
I also want to compliment Steve on the Drum Clinic that he puts on every
year at McHenry County College. This was the third time I’ve gone to the
event and it was the best one so far. The McHenry County Classic Drum Line
is absolutely the best. I had goose bumps the entire time they played, they
are that good! I know the event is really meant as a learning clinic for
drummers, but I would pay the admission just to listen to these kids play.
Steve I know you’ll read this because you love what you do, please keep up
all the hard work and dedication. I know you always say you like doing what
you do because of the kids, and I can tell you mine is one of them who is
better off for having you as his drum teacher….Thank You!”
Adam
- Friday, April 24, 2009 10:35 AM
Steve, I love your dedication to music education for kids. You have
an impressive website. You are a fascinating person in all that you do. And
love the way you play those drums, what technique and control.
Lori
Twin Falls, ID. - Fri, 27 Feb 2009 6:32 PM
Hey Steve, I knew you in Phoenix. I'm happy to see you on the
web...Your site is very cool and the videos of your lessons are very strong.
I learned a lot that I can use on the gig. I see you moved to IL...and
really loving that food and sports. I'm lovin' life in San Diego...pretty
nice here.
Anyway, just wanted to say Hey!
See ya.
Bobby Whiteshoes
San Diego, CA. - Wednesday, January 28, 2009 3:51 PM
Meeting Steve has, been a humbling experience. You think you have
good hands then you see Steve throw down. He understands the art of drumming
and has the disipline to match great talent. This man KNOWS his rudiments,
and has a great sence for the backsticking technique. I can't wait to see
his clinic and classic drumline in April. It will be a pleasure to be apart
of it. I still am gettin' a kick from his Crazy Army solo. He's Steve Gadd
from the neck down.
Russell Mehle
Des Plaines, IL. - Wednesday, January 28, 2009 3:51 PM
Guest book? OK I will just say how glad I am to have met Steve in
Phoenix, AZ a few years ago. I answered his ad for drum instruction. I had
no idea what I was in for. I had been playing a bit for a few years, but I
never knew that there was an actual science to beating a stick on a drum
head until I met Steve. I have seen a lot of great drummers, but when it is
explained to you with the enthusiasm that only Steve can bring, it make it
even better. I have never met anyone that has more of a passion for
rudiments than Steve. Steve and I became great friends during his stay in
Phoenix and I was dissappointed when he decided to move back to his homeland
- Chicago. Now I have to tease him about the Bulls and Bears long distance.
I do love Chicago and next time I visit there I will have a great friend and
mentor to show me the sites!!!
Keep up the great work and great attitude Steve!!! Go Suns!!!
Kevin Martin
Phoenix, AZ. - Fri Dec 26 2008 10:07
To those who missed the show and Clinic. The May 2007 Chicago Vintage
Drum Show was worth going to. If you didn’t go, you missed a good show and
especially the clinics. Steve was one of the Sunday Clinicians. I saw the
others also, and I’m biased. Steve was the only one who presented his clinic
with a teacher approach. He talked about and demonstrated many different
rudiments and how to incorporate them in a solo. My son has taken lessons
from Steve for just about 5 years. Because Steve incorporated the basic
rudiments in his weekly lessons, my son has gained a sound percussion
playing foundation that will help him throughout his playing career. If you
don’t have Steve’s Rudiments for the Drum set CD in your drum playing
library, you need to go to Steve’s web site and order one. It’s a good
investment.
John Zokal
Crystal Lake, IL. - Mon, 11 Aug 2008 09:42:52
Steve, Another way of proving that me, that ole Clem from Arizona got
to work with, “one of the best” in the country. In the early years it was
discipline, (I know where he got that). Lately it’s a passion, and it shows.
Steve will definitely inspire many notable drummers to insure a foundation
for all music in the generations of our future.
Gary Clemmans
AZ. - Friday , 1st Aug. 2008 8:13:14 -0700
Hi Steve" 1st Your dedication to these kids keeping them off the
streets, keeping them interested in drumming deserves the highest standards
of recognition in today's world ! Although we are friends that, never met
personally, I have a high degree of admiration to you . You probably would
make a great Mayor in your town ! Ya know I was day dreamin not long ago, i
was standing in front of the entire drum line from " 1965 RA " and you went
through the entire routine. just standing there in the same spot ! while,
The rest of the corps did their thing. Today I can still remember standing
at Boston College right at the 50 yard line in "awe" watching not just a
drum corps but, a group of professional masters of drum corps music ! and
yes, I was a Boston Crusader 1966-1967, but in 65 I was wish full Royal Air
! Take Care Steve
Robert F. Lucas B.A C.
- Saturday, July 26, 2008 11:46 AM
Dear Steve, Anyone who is going to Washington, D.C. has to visit the
Marine Corps Headquarters and barracks and find Steve Fagiano's name on the
Drum Corp wall. It's so cool to see our very own teacher's name up there.
Thanks for the tickets to the Friday night private parade show. To see the
Drum Corps and Silent Drill Team. Awesome!!! You're the best, Steve!!!
The Salvi Family
Crystal Lake, IL. - Fri, 11 Jul 2008 09:57:28
Steve, Arjun is fortunate to have found a great drum instructor in
you. It is hard to believe that he started drum lessons only last spring. He
came to you with only a passion for drumming and you nurtured that passion
with both instruction and encouragement. He has not only enjoyed being part
of the drumline but has learned a lot from the experience. Thanks for
fostering not just the techniques, but the discipline it takes to be a good
drummer.
Dinaz Tambe
Crystal Lake, IL. - Tuesday, July 1, 2008 6:12 PM
It is great to see the work that you have continued doing and the
obvious effect that it is having on the students you are working with, both
in terms of their enhanced abilities and the contribution that structured
activity will have on their lives. It’s always great to hear from you and
learn what you and your students have been doing. Very best wishes,
Jeff Helgeson
Roosevelt University
(Royal Air alumni)
Friday, June 27, 2008 12:35 PM
Steve
Your web site has increased over the years, to a higher professional level
as your drum line and drum competition has. It also has over shadowed many
drum corps sites as well. Keep up the good work with kids promoting quality
education. Best Regards,
Jeff Williams
Woodstock, IL. - Monday, May 26, 2008 4:43 PM
Steve: I regret not taking the opportunity to play in the R/A with
you. I'll never forget meeting at DCA. You are as prolific now as you were
then. Looks like I'll have to order the book to catch back up again. I'm
going to have your Book included on our Drum Corps webpage. Thanks for your
friendship and I look forward again to haveing time to talk "tubs" with you.
Warmest regards,- Exec. Director, The Presidents Drum and Bugle Corps
Bill Clendenon
Greeneville,Tn. - Sunday, March 16, 2008 10:56 AM
Hey Steve, It was really good to see you too. Thank You for your
hospitality. I hope all goes well for you at the college with your students.
They have a great teacher and mentor to follow. Scratafran lives!!! It is
what it is. Thanks for the hat dude.
Steve Wheeler
- Monday, February 18, 2008 9:31 PM
My Dear Friend Steve, Not only are you a very talented drummer you
are a fantastic friend. I miss the days when you, Dodge and I were going
here there and everywhere together. "The Blue Note" will always hold a
special place in my heart as will you. It's been a rough time since for me
since Dodge passed away but you have always been there for me and for that I
am very grateful. Dodge always admired and respected you as a friend and as
a musician. To Dodge, you were the brother he never had.Thank you Steve for
being such a good friend to me and Dodge. God Bless you always. Love You,
Connie (Dodge)
- Saturday, February 16, 2008 4:35 PM
Steve, You are a fascinating man, a fascinating musician, and a
fascinating teacher. keep up the good work with the kids ! Happy Holidays! Cheers!
Lori
Hanover Park, IL - Thu, 27 Dec 2007 09:00:15
Steve, had a great time at PASIC, thanks for introducing me to all
the different drum reps (especially Tara). Thanks for the drum dvd's. Also
can't wait for the clinic again and seeing Nicholosi. The website is cool,
and I look forward to lessons at the manor.
Andy Meadie
Harvard, IL - Thu, 08 Nov 2007 04:34:21 CDT
Greetings Steve, Keep up the good work, my friend. Wish I had been
there as I thought I would, but things have been rather hectic in recent
weeks. I am still catching up on stuff. This is some wonderful work you are
doing, let me assure you. I am truly proud of your success, you got it going
on, man. Best wishes for the best in all your endeavors.
DANIEL ODUDUA
Lake Montezuma, AZ Monday, July 23, 2007 2:54 PM
Hi Steve! I don't know if you'll remember me from the Chi-Anggels.
But we all hung out together years ago. You, me, Steve Bosniak, etc. Terry
Laplante is my cousin. I played the bass drum, and then I went on to carry a
flag and then a rifle in the color guard. Those were some really great
times. You were always a really great drummer, even back then. I remember
that you had a drum practice board with a rubber disc on it and were
practicing. I lived on old Meyer Court and then on old Ogden Avenue until my
family moved to the Wrigleyville area. Then I kinda drifted away. Your web
site is super. I really enjoyed it a lot. Thanks for refreshing my old
memories.
Jim Reed
Elk Grove Village, IL Sat, 7 Jul 2007 08:11:41 PM CDT
Steve, Another good drum clinic. You and Gaetano have your strong
points. I liked how Gaetano demonstrated how he applied 16th notes and made
a very cool solo out of it. In my opinion, everyone always thinks of
something very complicated. It’s really not. It’s how you apply and
interpret and practice. A very good job. Your strong point in my opinion is
your application of the rudiments on the drum set. You both did a great job.
Also, what better place to have the clinic than our own McHenry County
College. MCC is the ideal place to hold your Percussion Clinic. I’m glad Dr.
Takayama supports your efforts. Having the use of the MCC music rooms for
the drum line practice is ideal also. Steven really enjoys the drum line
practice too. We look forward to your next percussion clinic and drum line
practice.
John Zokal
Crystal Lake, IL Friday, April 27, 2007 12:28:23 PM CDT
Joe thought the clinic was INCREDIBLE and has great respect for you
and Gaetano and your drumming. You two blew them away at the end. Thanks for
putting on the clinic for the kids/adults/students.
Jan Wilson
, IL Thursday, April 26, 2007 11:09:22 AM CDT
Hi Steve. My name is Nick and I just attended the drum clinic on
Saturday at McHenry County College. Holy Cow do you have a set of hands. I
loved the way you explained using flam accents, swiss army triplets, six
stroke rolls etc. on the set. How to practice the rudiments and the pit
falls of bad technique. Gaetano N. was also very good and when you two
drummers battled it out, I didn't want it to end. I will be calling you for
lessons very soon. I just wanted to let you know that it really opened my
eyes and what a advantage rudiments give you on a set. Thank you and
Nicholosi for a great clinic.
Nick Salamone
Harvard, IL Monday, April 16, 2007 6:59:55 AM CDT
Hello, This is one of the best sites I have ever found. Thanks!!!
Very nice and informal. I enjoy being here. Education and Music are a
perfect fit. Thanks and Go Bears
John
Chicago, IL Monday, January, 15, 2007 at 23:25:41
Wassup Steve, I hope you remember me. You should. When you came to
Marine Barracks 8 & I, I got you a job instructing the drum line down at
the Police boys club. How have you been? I asked Stosh about you at the
reunion. We are trying to put together some things here in D.C so I may have
to order one of your DVD's. Keep up the good work Bobby Johnson (SEMPER FI)
Bobby Johnson
Washington, DC Thursday, January, 11, 2007 at 00:56:07
Steve, Your first "junior" drumline practice was really impressive.
These kids playing together for the first time was awesome. And this comment
was made by four of us "old school" criticts! Can't wait to see how the
"senior" drumline will react .... lol
Jeff Williams
Woodstock, IL December 10, 2006 3:25:18 PM CST
Steve Got to your site by surfing. I will be calling you soon. You
are just what I am looking for.I need to get my chops more controlled and
learn more rudiments. I though they were out dated. Boy was I wrong. I just
ordered your video and know someone who has taken lessons from you here in
Gilberts. Just to tell the truth She has better knowledge of rudiments then
me, but not for long. Thanks Doug.
Doug Walden
Gilberts, IL Thursday, October, 12, 2006 at 11:12:59
Hi, Cousin! Just previewed your website for the 1st. time. Glad to
hear of your success! Are you living in AZ? We will be coming out to visit
our son Mark & family SW of Phoenix Hope to see your sister Phyllis ...
and you if you're around! Interesting - I just got home after playing a gig
with a big band and then reading your website, I wasn't aware of your
extensive drumming experience. We've got to talk! God bless! Your Cousin Jim
Jim Fickes
Dayton, OH Sunday, September, 17, 2006 at 00:00:44
Steve, Just stopped by to see your growth here. Wow! The pictures
from present and past years are so good to see. Keep introducing and
inspiring our next generation of drummers. You do this so very well. Give Ed
lots of granddrummers and great granddrummers. Hope to perhaps see you at
the Madison August 9th show. What a sound that will be. Love ya, Mouse
Mouse
Roseville, MN Friday, July, 14, 2006 at 09:13:34
Hi Steve, It was a good night last night and we all had a great time.
Parkside is truly a good place to meet people and have fun. You don't look a
day over 45 and act like your 25. I bet you get all the energy from the kids
you teach and playing drums. Crystal Lake & McHenry County College are
very lucky to have you as a teacher. And now we here at P.S. Huntley wish
you a very happy birthday and a long and prosperous life. Love Ya. K.N.
& Crew.
Kathy Naughton
Marengo, IL Thursday, June, 29, 2006 at 10:08:52
Hey Steve, No body's really typed here in a while so I'll continue
the chain. I was at the Drum Contest today and I saw some good people on the
Drums. It made me just wanna play them more. Well, see ya at practice!
Anthony
Anthony Friedli
Crystal Lake, IL Saturday, June, 17, 2006 at 22:04:51
Hey Steve, I love the photo's. Your site just keeps getting better,
just like us! One of these days we will make it to one of your jazz
sessions. Take care and keep doing Guy! Blessings and Love to you,
Cheryl
Schaumburg, IL Thursday, June, 8, 2006 at 19:47:52
Steve. Just got to look at the NEW pictures (in photo gallery) from
the May Clinic and the Jazz Band concert. Not to mention your Students
Corner. Way too cool, what a life with teaching, playing out and doing
clinics. Keep up the great work with kids with chasing and living your
dream. The Very Best. Matt
Matt McBride
Lake in the Hills, IL Wednesday, June, 7, 2006 at 01:00:16
Steve, Enjoyed meeting you at the show this past mth. Checked out
your DVD yesterday. Great job! Good expression of rudiments and their
application - your snare chops on the solo were excellent indeed. Hope to
see you in the future at another show or elsewhere. Best of luck in all your
endeavours!
Daniel Glass
Friday June 2, 2006 at 12:43:19
Steve, I enjoyed your May 9 Drum Clinic at MCC. I really liked the
effect of the black lights that night when you demonstrated the long roll
and back sticking. I watched real close when you opened it up, bringing your
sticks up high and even from slow to fast to slow. I could see how you
maintained even height throughout this rudimental demonstration. Hopefully
others picked up on and appreciated your high, open, even sticking
technique. Your long roll had a very, very nice clear sound. I look forward
to the next clinic. John
John Zokal
Crystal Lake, IL Monday, May, 29, 2006 at 21:47:31
Steve, we really enjoyed your "Sessions" performance at the local
college. Also, the drum clinic last week was PHENOMENAL! You and Gaetanno
really tore it up in there. The rudimentary explanations made sense even to
me (a non-drummer) and just listening to you guys play made me want to grab
a drum set myself! You'll have to let me know when you do something like
this again. Thanks!
Tam
Huntley, IL Wednesday, May, 17, 2006 at 12:27:32
Steve, Got the DVD's yesterday! Your explanation and examples for
playing the rudiments are excellent. Your timing and precision is an example
of many years experience. This is great for beginners to advanced players,
and I will be sure to put it to good use in my own practice and
playing..Thanks again, Joe
Joe Tortorice
Culpeper, Va Wednesday, May, 3, 2006 at 08:20:00
Hi Steve!, Great website. Impressive pictures, sound, info, etc. I
wish I was still in Illinois. My son and I would be taking lessons from you.
Take care, Bob
Bob Minor
Monday, April 3, 2006 at 20:54:42
Steve. Thanks for playing drums. I would not have met you and other
wise McCune & Eberline. Boy ! Chameleon & Star Driver were the bad
boys of the times. Those days at Mothers & Rush Up will forever stay in
my heart. Those drum solo's by Fagiano and Aldridge were the bomb. Dave
Dave Tefft
Wildwood, IL Friday, March 17, 2006 at 18:03:26
yo Steve good meeting you at the local watering hole,you need to
incorperate the spoons !! ha ha, great web site by the way. Rock on.
Jeff
Huntley, IL Saturday, March 4, 2006 at 13:06:27
Hi Steve, Long time no talk. Nice website. Did you know about Steve
Dodge?? Hope things are going well for you. Lori
Lori Davis
Phx, AZ Friday, March 3, 2006 at 14:57:06
Steve. What a great site, and the Band (Sessions) is also very,very
good. Looking forward to the Free concert at M.C.C. on May 7th. and the Drum
Clinc on May 9th. My friends turned me on to Dunnhills and wha-la ! There
should be more of this going on here in North West Illinois. Keep it up for
all us music lovers. Thanks Jackie
Jackie Diskett
McHenry, IL Wednesday, March 1, 2006 at 11:30:56
Subject: teach me the one arm method
I recently lost my arm due to playing the drums in a shark-cage.I didn't
know the sharks needed to be on the outside of the cage.(ha,ha). Hi Steve,!!
Just wanted to say hello and check in with you,buddy. Give me a call
sometime and say, Hi. Arizona's looking for your arrival back someday.PEACE
MY BROTHER....
Rob Hamilton
Wednesday, February 15, 2006 at 03:51:30
HEY STEVE, TOLD YA I'D CHECK OUT YOUR SITE AGAIN. ENJOYED THE
PICTURES FROM THE OLD DAYS. GLAD TO HERE THINGS ARE GOIN GOOD FOR YA. HOPE
TO SEE YA SOON.
WISH YOU WERE PLAYIN WITH US, BUT I ONLY INSTRUCT, CAN'T GIVE UP ALL THE
TIME NEEDED. BE GOOD, AND HOPE TA SEE YA SOON!!!!!!!
SUNNY,
COUGARS,SPARTANS,ROYAL AIRS,AIR FORCE ACADEMY DRUM CORPS, ROYAL AIR REUNION
CORPS
DON SONNE
MORTON GROVE, IL Monday, January 2, 2006 at 11:25:41
I have just touched base, "after 10 years", with the best drummer I
have ever had the pleasure of sharing the stage with. Steve, and I enjoyed
company with Ron Keel now at www.ronkeel.com and also www.ironhorseband.com
We performed in the Phoenix, AZ. area for a full year. Steve not only
inspired me with his carefree and funloving attitude, he also made me a
better bass player. If you are thinking about lessons with Steve, the value
recieved will be forthcoming many years to come. We also shared the like
expierence of being a Marine. That unique combination proved to be extreamly
inspiring on stage. Not only will I be looking foward to someday thanking
him in person for helping my career, but hopefully to share the stage in a
reunion show. Semper Fi my friend!
Gary "Clem" Clemmons
www.smokengunsband.com
Prescott Valley, AZ - Thursday, December 29, 2005 at 00:24:19
YO! Steve, I finally got an email address through the library in
C.L. At least this way I can comunicate with you. I would like to see you
perform with your group. (sessions) say hi!! to cathy for me.
Your friend Jeff Hart BD 2002 R.A.
Jeff Hart
Crystal Lake, IL Thursday, December 22, 2005 at 13:43:48
STEVE, Your site is very good,the DVD is INCREDIBLE.ITS the best DVD
on rudiments for the drumset.I can already feel the change in my
playing.THANK YOU SIR. STUDYING UNDER YOU ONE ON ONE IS A DREAM. GOD BLESS.
Glenn Pinto
CANSAULION GOA INDIA - Wednesday, November 9, 2005 at 13:42:35
(whew ! ) Fagiano, Dulski, Schmids, Munchkin, Gaeckle, Kubas, O'Neil
Tru, Denny Carrol. I was surfing the net & came across your website
& saw your name & read some e-mails & went to some links.The
memories, The insanity, The love of it all. I thank God my Country the Corps
& most of all Tru who pulled it all together. Seebo.
Spectical CityMariners 62-69 U.S.M.C. D&B 69-71
Hamilton Yankee Rebels 71
Jay Seeby
Monday Oct 3rd, 2005 at 2:35:28
Steve. What a nice web site. Had a chance to see your jazz trio a
while back. Great keyboards, not to mention your solid drumming. What a set
of chops, I guess playing all those years in drum corps didn't hurt. Can't
wait for a drum clinic at the college in Crystal Lake and to see the band
again. Keep up the good work with the kids and lets get that new dvd. Your
ideas are refreshing and need to be on tape. Thanks for the music. James.
James Fisher
Alden IL - Tuesday, August 2, 2005 at 08:41:46
HEY, I just wanted to say I had a lot of fun at the contest and
thanks for mentioning me as the drum machine! Rock on brother Paul W.
Paul Wandtke
Romeoville IL - Thursday, July 7, 2005 at 11:23:44
Hello I'm a student of Steve's and He is an amazing Drum Teacher. And
I have to say! He is one of the best Drummers I have ever seen.
Bryan
L.I.T.H, IL - Wednesday, June 22, 2005
Steve, Old Friend, the site looks great and the contest history is
tremendous. I am so happy that you are doing so well and successful. Do done
good! The contest is a great thing you have done for all those kids you got
out of themselves to challenge themselves and grow. They will have those
experiences for the rest of their lives. And what about their mates and
family who saw them work and step up to it. That is super stuff.Love you
man. Keep doin the do! Keep the love goin too! Pete
Pete Cerchiara
Saturday, June 11, 2005
Hi Steve, I am in checking out your site. It's always good to hear
from guys from back in the day. I can still play a little but need to knock
some rust off. I Think that I will. As you would say, Rudimentaly yours
Brian, Cougars, Spartan & Vanguard
Brian
Twin Lakes, WI - Friday, June 10, 2005 at 13:38:51
Hey Steve great talking to you at the Chicago Drum Show, can't wait
to show you my stuff at this years Heat Strokes Drum Contest.
Ben Kipp
Huntley, IL - Wednesday, June 1, 2005 at 21:37:15
Steve, It was awesome talking drums with you today...how kewl is it a
couple of drummers can hit it off immediately only drummers can do that
.....haha. Im so looking forward to meeting you and talking more.....and
doing your drum-off.....Im going to have to work my chops more now for your
contest..hehe Talk to you soon, JILL
Jill Unrein
Kenosha, WI - Friday, April 22, 2005 at 19:08:14
Hey Steve, I met you at the 2000 NAMM show in L.A. we talked quite a
while, you gave me your business card, I just saw your site posted on the
DCI forum & wanted to say hello Good Luck! I hope to check out your DVD
someday. Best Regards, Steve P. Smith
EvEnStEvEn
Paris, TX - Monday, April 11, 2005 at 22:57:10
Hey Steve! It's Wes in AZ. It looks like Centrifugal Force is doing
great. Your contest is doing great, and I want to congragulate you on your
success. Long live rudiments and Saber!!!!
Wes Wilkins
Scottsdale, AZ - Saturday, April 9, 2005 at 22:05:58
Steve. I wish I could see you play with the jazz band,it should be a
blast.By the way, thanks for the dvd. I wish I had a video like that when I
was growing up in N.J. I could have made the snare line with Garfield
(Cadets) a couple of years earlier. Its tough learning rudiments by yourself
and the kit stuff, just topped if off. A definite addition to any serious
drummers (drum students) video/dvd library. All the best with your playing,
teaching and annual drum contest.
Semper-Fi, Bill Gaeckle, Cadets N.J. 1965,66,67, Cadets N.J.Instructor,
1972,74,75,76.
Bill Gaeckle
Washington, DC - Saturday, April 9, 2005 at 12:26:04
Nice website Steve, I like the photo gallery. I also really like the
dvd and how much it helps me. Thanks
Ryan kluver
Crystal Lake, IL - Friday, March 11, 2005 at 21:34:45
Steve. I'm enjoying the hell outa taking lessons and playing. I just
wish I could get my left hand to do what my right hand does, but I guess
that takes time. Thanks for your support and good teaching. Later.
Tom Ogden
Crystal Lake, IL - Thursday, February 10, 2005 at 17:51:52
Hey Steve, you know that in 1995 I started to take lesson's from
you, and did you also know that I was your only female student. That was
because there were not very many out hear in the Az. GREAT PICURES!!! of
all the drummers in chicago and you as well, very cool
Rachel Barela
PHEONIX, AZ - Saturday, February 5, 2005 at 22:26:00
Steve, You left us. You moved back to CHICAGO and what happened
to us in Phoenix ? O.K. So the weather here is a little warm and the
sports teams aren't as good, but you are missed out here in the Wild
west.To everyone else out there in Chicago-Land, and the country. Buy the
dvd, bass players as well as drummers can benefit from Steve's lessons.
The very best Steve. Frank and Rache
Frank Murguia
PHEONIX, AZ - Sunday, January 30, 2005 at 19:38:11
Steve. Just wanted to let you know we picked up your dvd of
Rudiments for Drumset and even my daughter is now picking up the rudiments
faster than ever. We have the video and it was very informative and my son
learned fast and how to practice them, but the dvd has made it possible
for his sister to pick them up even faster. Can't wait for another dvd
with more ways to practice and play. What a great idea, everyone should
have this dvd who wants to learn drum rudiments and how to practice
them.The Best and thanks from the Rice Family
Carol Ricei
McHenry, IL - Saturday, 15 Jan 2005 10:57:22 -0000
Hi Steve, It was great meeting up with you at PASIC in Nashville.
We had great time.
Congratulations on your Video, I really like it. Also there is great
teaching information on it.
I'll talk to you soon. Iron Horse Drummer.
Gaetano Nicolosi
http://www.gaetanonicolosi.com
Columbia, TN - Friday, November 26, 2004 at 14:24:25
Steve.Well, It will be great to see you again and can't wait for
that dvd. Its about time you got to Tenn. and can enjoy the proud and
music filled Nashville. See you soon and keep up the work with the kids.
Oh ! and please remember to show me all those inverted rudiments. The very
best. Stephanie
Stephanie Holden
Nashville, TN - Wednesday, November 3, 2004 at 17:47:58
E-mail Subject: Heat Strokes Drum Contest
Hey Steve, Long time no talk. I was wondering when the picture from Heat
Strokes was going to appear in Modern Drummer. I understood that there was
a copy mix up in M.D. this year. I guess I'll have to enter for the 3rd.
year in a row. I recomend it for everyone. Thanks for the hard work. Joe.
Joe Babiak
- Tuesday, October 19, 2004 at 14:28:44
Hello ! Just surfed in and found this really interesting place
here. A lot of good stuff for everybody.
Your site is a varied mixture of the latest news, specified information
and activ power. Go on like
this and i will surely visit your site again sometime. Say hi to all
people around the world. Good luck for the future. Eve
De - Monday, October 11, 2004 at 04:27:07
Steve, You have a great website, are a great Drum Corps Alum. and
are a superb friend. Thanks for keeping me in the loop! Semper Fi, CWO Mel
Estes, U.S. Marine Drum and Bugle Corps Alumni.
CWO Mel Estes USMC (Ret.)
Mandeville, La - Monday, October 4, 2004 at 20:32:08
Sup, Steve.
We finally signed in your guest book and we will see ya at the next
lesson. T&R.
Taylor Servant/ Reilly Kemp
Crystal Lake, IL - Friday, September 24, 2004 at 21:13:19
Steve ! Your Cubs are golden, And the Bears are golden too. But
My Seahawks are going to the super bowl! jeff@pensionprofessionals.com is
my work e-mail and god gets a copy of it.. Take Care Steve, Jeff. Ye Ha
Jeff Cunning
Phoenix, AZ - Thursday, September 23, 2004 at 18:09:32
Really Good Work. Great Sites. Keep up the good work with
children.
Pete
USA - Friday, September 10, 2004 at 05:47:40
Great Site ! Lots of imformation and info on many things I never
new about drumming. Have family members that were in drum corps and know
the dedication and work that goes into playing, and most of all, Teaching.
You should be comended for working with children and giving them a outlet
away from the streets. Don't ever stop your dreams as they help many kids
with there's. God Bless always. A Fan of Music amd Dreams. C.D.
Cynthia Dolnick
New York, NY - Friday, September 10, 2004 at 10:30:33
Subject: u missed a great time
Steve, I tried to contact you about the Marine Corps reunion. I wish you
could have gone, I got some good airline fairs, but the rooms were way
above average. Bill Gaeckle asked about you and the Schmid brothers were
there. Get in touch real soon. Ok ! Thanks Stosh.
Stanley A. Kubas
Sunday, August 8, 2004 at 08:16:59
Steve. Word is out, that you have your video on dvd. I was told
that it is only a matter of time that it will be available. And that a new
video will be out by October this year. Please post on your web page
a.s.a.p. the details of ordering. Looking forward to both. Keep up the
good work and never, never stop. K.H.
Ken Holden
Wonder Lake, IL - Friday, July 9, 2004 at 10:16:36
Hey Steve
Just checked out all areas of your website for the first time. It's great,
keep up the good work and thanks for your dedication. Lori.
Lori
Crystal Lake, IL - Thursday, July 8, 2004 at 23:26:34
Steve, Great site ! Nice to see someone thinking about the
children. Giving something back!! You may not remember me, but we played
together back in the late 60's. I played bass and you were underage for
the bars...but we played anyway. You were always the best in my mind at
playing the drums. What style and taste. We played with Ron Shafer keys
& amp; Mike V. on guitar.I'm going to stop in to see you soon. Maybe
we can go to lunch. God Bless.
Terry
www.broadjam.com/grayrock
Terry Dudgeon
Gurnee, IL - Saturday, July 3, 2004 at 11:45:36
Steve. What a excellent drum contest you ran two weeks ago. With
beginners thru advanced, what a great idea. Usually there is one winner,
and with the heat strokes there were three. And every contestant got the
experiance and a prize. Keep up the good work. Our Children need it and so
does the area. And the venue was great also as was your staff. Jen.
Jennifer Conner
Algonquin, IL - Saturday, June 26, 2004 at 13:16:52
Hi Steve, this is Gaetano...How are you? It was a pleasure
meeting you and talking Rudiments etc. Keep up the good work and stay in
touch. Gaetano...... Drummer, Iron Horse Band. p.s. Ronnie (K) says: Go
Cubs.........
Take care
Gaetano Nicolosi
www.IronHorseBand.com
USA - on Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 18:39:13
Hi Steve! I was searching for the last page of the internet and
your site turned up. How about that. I always said you were special. Your
site and content looks great. I hope you are having as much success as you
have visitors. By the way, will we see you in DC in July? It's going to be
a great time. Be there or be square. Regards, Schmidtlapp
Bill Schmids
Darby, PA - on Friday, June 4, 2004 at 15:13:01
Hey Steve, you have a great site here. excellent job of setting
it all up, and very professional, a perfect reflection of yourself. Going
back with you since the early 60's seems like only yesterday, and you are
still getting better all the time but.....(less hair like me ha, ha,)
anyway it is always a pleasure to catch up with you. I am happy to have
this internet capability to do that. However it is always more fun in
person. So I hope to see you soon. Till then take care and GOD BLESS...
Please keep up the good work. George
George Drish
Chicago, IL - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 22:36:52
Steve ! Remember me I was just cheking out your web site for the
first time and its pretty cool. Thanks for what you said about me in the
contest article in M.D. Hey man, I live in L.A. now. I'm playing drums for
Brandy and also doing a lot session work out here and producing as well.
Man have great year, hope to here from you soon. Maybe we can hook up one
day. God Bless
Anthony Capers
Los Angeles, CA - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 16:46:17
Steve Just a note to let your drummer mom's and dad's in the
Crystal Lake area know. What a great contest you hold. It is not only good
for the kids musicly, but is an event that warms the heart. I am making
the trip from Oswego and am encourging all to attend. Thanks for getting
the kids involed and if you like drums, Mark your calendar for the 12th.
of June. You will not be disapointed. Thanks again.
Judy Landon
Oswego, IL - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 10:45:30
Steve. It was good seeing you at the Drum Show in Chicago this
past weekend. Feel free to write me back anytime and let me know what's
happening. I'm am waiting for another video soon! Anyways, just wanted to
get on here and say hi. I'm thinking about entering the Heat Strokes
Contest. Hopefully my schedule will allow it. I'll let ya know! Talk to ya
later! - Brad
Brad Graham
Mt. Pleasant, MI - 19 May 2004 20:39:38 -0000
Steve. Just wanted to thank you for a great instructional
video.There are so many video's that say they are instructional,and are
preformance video's. The parts of showing rudiments are truly helpful.
Will be waiting for another one and wish you the best. Thanks again Jason.
Jason Walker
Chicago, IL - Monday, April 26, 2004 at 10:39:29
Subject:Hello from AZ!
Hi Steve-You look great! Good luck to you in this venture.
Cousin--Jerry
AZ - Saturday, April 17, 2004 at 11:57:40
Hey Steve!!! Arizona Misses Ya!! :-) Scottie Z. (Fagiano padawan)
Scottie Z
Glendale, AZ - Thursday, March 25, 2004 at 19:45:57
Steve, Keep Rockin'!!! There's nothing better than groovin.'
Matthew Ramerman
http://www.mattramerman.com
Rochester, NY - Monday, March 15, 2004 at 01:35:44
Nice page Steve! Good luck with the contest this year. Cya around
the C.L. Bank!
Andy Oxford
Fox River Grove, IL - Wednesday, March 10, 2004 at 08:54:23
Steve, I brought my son to your clinic last night. What a good
educational night. From the right way to practice, to the pit falls of
poor technique. And all the rudiments and set exercises. We left with a
bright new out look. It was two hours of heaven. We were sad it had to
end. But it was also very nice to see that young boy win a drum set. He
made us all happy, as did you. Thanks from Jon & Terry
Terry Ward
Algonquin, IL - 19 Feb 2004 18:31:31 -0000
Congratulaions, saw your ad for the drum clinic on Feb 18th on
the entire back page of the tv guide in the northwest herald. Great way to
keep your name out there. Good mention of the Royal-Airs. Hope to see you
there. Lisa
Lisa Berger
Mchenry, IL - Sunday, February 8, 2004 at 11:09:02
Steve, Very nice web site and I will be ordering the video real
soon. Its great to see someone involed with kids. There is so much for
them to get off track with. Too much junk with games and rap etc. The very
best to you and the Royal Airs to. I also will be getting some RA music,
Can't wait to hear the big sound. Semper Fi. Mark.
Mark Highland
Clarksville, VA - Tuesday, January 27, 2004 at 08:40:49
Steve, I really enjoy your video, and am learning the rudimental
combinations and flam rudiments daily. The way to practice them and the
pitfalls of not holding the sticks properly. I didn't know that swiss
rudiments and inverted rudiments could be used on the drum set. What style
and contol.
Hopefully I can get there with practice and desire. Thanks for showing me
the way. A new student of your video. DAN
Dan Mithell
Chicago, IL - Thursday, January 15, 2004 at 10:16:13
Steve, What a wonderful instructional video. My son Evan has had
it two weeks now and is improving at leaps and bounds. Not to put down his
teachers at his high school, but why don't they explain about grip and
control. And thinking that rudiments are and old way of learning. I guess
someone with a degree in music, majoring in saxaphone, dosen't know much
about percussion. Thanks for the jump start and please do another video.
The Best.
Barb Philips
Kansas City, MO - Tuesday, December 30, 2003 at 11:24:16
Steve - Great web site buddy, You really do have a long and
interesting back ground. Although I am semi-retired from Information
Systems as a Business Analyst and Tech Writer I still love to dance.I have
also taught Disco, Latin and ballroom, but now I am searching for a new
partner; who is willing to develop our "own" style. Will travel to
dance!Weekends sometimes find me travelling back to Chicago's near
northwest side senior dancing clubs! The very best, Your new friend from
the Library.
Wallace Czeropski
Lake in the Hills, IL - December 17, 2003 at 11:16:11
Hello Steve, Thanks for dropping by our web site! My name is
Harold Davis. Like you I never really got that drum corps stuff out of my
blood... I got drafted in 1968. I never got to age out.... But what I left
behind was amazing. I gave Fort Hood Texas their first Drum Corps
Drumline. Three snares three tenors one rudimental bass, two bass drums
and two cymbals! The Band was afraid the Army Soldiers would not me able
to march in step with a straight 4/4 Bass Drum beat! Well, that became
history. They never marched better.....
I also performed in the Army Big Jazz Band where we play some of Buddy
Rich's Big Band charts! I also went on to win every talent competition in
the Army. When I got out of the service I tried to go back to Drum Corps
and march with the Skyliners. But it wasn't the same... So I pursued being
a professional trap drummer..Not until reason I started looking back at my
life after my sweetheart passed away did I decide to honor the people the
members, and the church for what they had done for me.. so many years
ago...We had our first reunion last June a the drumline is now in touch...
It the greatest thing I've ever done..........I'm know a cameraman, I
travel the world shooting fabulous vacation get aways... And I take my
sticks everywhere I go............Thanks again Steve for stopping
by.........D'kick Drummer Harold Smiley Davis
Harold Smiley Davis
http://members.aol.com/_ht_a/dkickdrum/Stroccospage3.html
Miami, FL - Monday, Tuesday, December 16, 2003 at 17:28:39
Very Good Site. Nice to see a well put together drumming page.
From the contest, to the tips on control. The pictures, history, and links
etc. Keep up the good work. From Loves Park. Kathy
Kathleen Thomas
Rockford, IL - Monday, December 8, 2003 at 22:20:04
Steve. Just heard on E.S.P.N. Radio, that Buzzy. Former Royal-Air
Tenor Drummer 1965. (Judge cook county) Sentenced the monkey that attacked
the ump. at Sox's - K.C. game last summer. To Six months time.
God Bless a judge that knows the law & inforces it. And bless the R.A.
D&B Corps. The very best.
Mike Vaughan
Chicago, IL - Saturday, December 6, 2003 at 10:15:10
Hallo, wollte nicht so ohne weiteres gehen und einen lieben Gruss
in Deinem Gästebuch hinterlassen.. Beste Grüsse aus Deutschland und eine
schöne Advendszeit, dies wünscht Dir, Anne* Würde mich sehr freuen, auf
einen Gegenbesuch & Gästebucheintrag :-)
(Translated) - Hello, did not want to go so easily and to leave a dear
greeting in your guest book. Anne wishes you best greetings from Germany
and a beautiful automatic data processing final time, this * me much would
make happy, on a return visit & a guest book entry
Anne
http://www.freehomepage1.de/members/anne123
Germany, - Thursday, December 4, 2003 at 16:24:34
Hey Steve, Happy Holidays. Hope to see you at Royal Air rehearsal
soon. Carl
Carl Fiocca
Manhattan, IL - Saturday, November 29, 2003 at 19:48:22
Hello Uncle Steve! I love your web site! Great pictures! Love
Gina
Gina Suerth
Kansasville, WI - Tuesday, November 25, 2003 at 15:39:35
Steve. You were right. The Video turned me on to many new things
I did not know about practicing. The concept of 1/4 notes 1/8 notes &
1/16 notes up & down. Is very effective. Grip w/ all fingers on sticks
are very good for control. Can't wait for another Video. Hope Ky. was to
your advantage. John
John Snyder
Louisville, KY - Tuesday, November 25, 2003 at 15:00:42
Steve, Paul Milano referred me to your site. Very nice by the
way. I marched with Paul at Cavaliers and still drum. I am currently
living in northern Wisconsin but get down to Chicago fairly regularly. In
fact I will be in the area for about two weeks in January attending trade
shows for my business. I'm curious about your camps or lessons for out of
towners. I play primarily with a 7 pc. jazz group here in the Rhinelander
area. Although I guess I would consider myself an advanced student (degree
in Percussion Performance and 30+ years playing experience) I'm always
interested in continuing my education and learning some new things. I'm
especially interested in your concept of applying rudiments to set
playing. Can you please fill me in a bit on time availability, cost,
possible "curriculum" etc. Thanks
Pete Stoltman
WI - Thursday, November 20, 2003 at 12:10:14
Nice Site Steve! Professional just like you, I know that your
Business will grow. Keep the good work going and your music flowing. Love,
Cheryl
Cheryl Daszkiewicz
Schaumburg, IL - Monday, November 17, 2003 at 23:19:32
Wow! I really think your web site is cool.It gives you alot of
info. and shows your history well. Im very proud of my Uncle Steve. Love,
Angie. Rock On!
Angela Steveson
Merrill, WI - Saturday, November 15, 2003 at 14:36:28
Steve this site is really excellent, great information. greetz
from vienna !!
Georg
http://www.race.at
Vienna, Austria/Europe - Sunday, November 2, 2003 at 05:52:01
Steve Just got to your web page via search. (drum lessons) Nice
page: pic's, drum contest etc. The very best with your passion, Linda.
Linda Morris
Concord, CA - Sunday, November 2, 2003 at 00:38:28
Steve, Congratulations on your excellent web site! The RA
pictures from the past were a nice treat. My memories of the '65 corps are
firmly entrenched and they will always be the best corps I ever had to
pleasure to listen to and watch. Best wishes on your business venture!!!
Terry
www.millstadtcrusaders.com
Terry Miles
Highland, IL - Tuesday, October 28, 2003 at 12:19:31
WOW! Steve! Thanks for your encouraging words in my guest
register, you are too kind. You have an informative website here! By your
photo gallery you have accomplished a lot, been a lot of places and known
many famous people. Thanks for sharing your passion for Drums with the
world. I am reminded that God does love all kinds of music and
instruments. In fact the Bible says that musicians and singers use to take
the field of battle before the Army of God and His enimies were always
brought down! You glorify God with your love of music and your passion for
the drums... continue to be a blessing and be blessed in this ministry you
share with your students and those you do not even know...like me! Thank
you for serving your country too, with "The Few and the Proud!" This
country is a better place because you are in it!
Everlastinly His,
Inspie
http://www.inspie.home.midspring.com
NC, USA - Sunday, October 26, 2003 at 14:34:02
Dear Steve, I am very happy that I get to have Drum Lessons with
you. I like your Drumset.(the R-V-10) I wish I could come every day. Your
youngest student. Love, Andrew
Andrew Brown
Algonquin, IL - Saturday, October 25, 2003 at 09:59:31
I enjoyed visiting your interesting website. Greetings from
Germany!
Horst, http://www.Hutprojekt.de
Germany - Saturday, October 25, 2003 at 09:32:49
Great site. I got a bang out of it. please visit mine anytime to
see Gods creatures (beautiful birds) www.geocities.com/birdtune
Describe themselves via poems & photos. ps please sign my guestbook.
Marvin D Goldfarb
NYC, NY - Friday, October 25, 2003 at 07:03:16
Steve. Any drummer or want to be drummer who dosen't have your
video. Is making a big mistake. It took years to refine and put together
your practice method. The simplest of things people over look. And the
three different types of flams segment is very interesting. Quote Modern
Drummer 1999. "This video is a must in every teachers video library".
Richard Watson, Amen. Bob
Robert Tomlin
Chicago, IL - Friday, October 24, 2003 at 15:33:01
Hello Steve. Thank you for subscripting my guest book @
suncollector.ch. I like your photo gallery, especialy the pictures around
1974. salutation :)
suncollector.ch
Bienne,Be - SWITZERLAND - Friday, October 24, 2003 at 12:30:17
Thanks for your visit and nice words ! Let the music rule...
Greetz from Vienna !!
Georg
Austria/Europe - Wednesday, October 22, 2003 at 17:26:28
Steve Its a great thing to teach kids & help drummers
improve. Your video has helped me very much & is a great gift for all
for xmas. I recomend it to all who want to get a good handle on learning
drum rudiments correctly and learning the tricks of set playing. You are a
breath of fresh air and a man of great morals. keep up the work with the
contest & please do another video w/ it on dvd. The best John.
John Phillips
McHenry, IL. USA - Tuesday, October 21, 2003 at 10:32:23
Steve, Thanks for all your help and direction in the beginning of
this 2003 Royal-Air season. It was great being with you and working on the
Royal-Airs standard.I very much enjoyed the HEAT STROKES 2003 event and
look forward to judging next year's contest. This year marked some great
growth in your student following, also -congratulations. I am especially
proud of Ray and the opportunity which he earned "Marching Percussion
Caption Head" with THE UNIVERSITY of IOWA. I know you are an inspiration
for him. Thank you for being the Drummer, Leader, and Teacher you are.
You arethe Best. Love you, Minnesota Mouse
Monday, September 29, 2003 at 20:48:34
Hey Steve, hope to see you at the banquet....and in Royal Blue in
2004 as well....you always looked good in blue and white! Carl
Carl Fiocca
Manhattan, IL. USA - Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 18:11:32
Steve, You are a Great Teacher and a Great Friend! Being part of
the Royal Airs tenor line was the best experience of my life! I plan to do
it again next year. I hope that you will be our Percussion Caption Head.
Chris Gross
Crystal Lake, IL. USA - Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 00:21:16
We hope to see you at the banquet and you need to be a part of
2004 RA.(period)
Connell
Connell Ggriffin
Chicago, IL. USA - Wednesday, September 24, 2003 at 13:04:42
Steve 2003 was a decent R.A. year but as most of us already
know..it would have been MUCH,MUCH, better with your presence. Missed
you........Continued good luck buddy!
Thomas Diprima
Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 17:34:43 (EDT)
I WANT EVERYONE TO KNOW THAT STEVE HAS THE BEST CHOPS IN THE
BUSINESS-I WAS WITH STEVE IN THE MARINE CORPS DRUM CORPS AND WE LEARNED A
LOT OF COOL STUFF FROM STEVE. WE ALSO TAUGHT STEVE SOME CRAP ALSO...DON'T
LET HIM TAKE ALL THE CREDIT- WE WERE A TOUGH BUNCH TO IMPRESS AND WE WERE
IMPRESSED BY THE ROYALS...TAKE IT FROM A GARFIELD CADET-65/66/67- I WAS
VERY IMPRESSED BY WHAT I SAW-IT MADE ME A BETTER DRUMMER AND I TOOK
EVERYTHING I LEARNED BACK TO THE CADETS ....DIG IT FUDGIE HE ALSO SAW SOME
COOL STUFF WE DID - KICK BUTT DUDE
YOU ARE THE DRUMMER WE LOOKED TO BE
SEMPER FI' MARINE
BILL GAECKLE 1967-71
GAMBRILLS, MD. USA - Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 19:14:31 (EDT)
Hey, Steve! I don't think I need to repeat the testimonials about
your drumming expertise. I will echo the personal sentiments, though. I
feel priveleged to have drummed with you for a short time in AZ. (Too bad
we couldn't keep the senior thing going!) Let me know when you're coming
to Vegas!
Garry Parker
Las Vegas, NV. USA - Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 19:37:41 (EDT)
Hey Drummer Steve, again I love the site, you have a lot of great
info on it. I want that Zildjan though.... keep me in mind. ~Ash~ :)
Ashley
Crystal Lake, IL. USA - Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 16:22:00 (EDT)
Steve,This site keeps getting better and better! Keep up the good
work! I especially enjoy the audio clips of your instructional video!
Every time I listen to them I am impressed more and more!
When are you going to release this stuff on DVD?? I wish for you and yours
the best of everything. You are one of the hardest working men I know!
===Steven===>>
Steven Goldstein
Phoenix, Az. USA - Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 13:56:01 (EDT)
Steve. Good to see you yesterday and thanks once again for your
drum instruction earlier this year. Without your teaching I would not have
been a member of the 2003 Royal Air Tenor Line which was unfinished
business for me from 1964. Jim K.
Jim Kemnitz
Sycamore, Il. USA - Monday, September 22, 2003 at 15:06:53 (EDT)
Steve. Good to see a Very Good Drummer, Become a very Good
Teacher. From Rush Street to Europe. The Very Best. Deborah
Deborah Tyler
Chicago, Il. USA - Sunday, September 14, 2003 at 21:02:52 (EDT)
Steve Great Web Site. Love the stories and the pictures. Didn't
know you had all that back ground but, it all adds up now. I have the
groove down ? and want to learn all the rudiments and tricks. Keep up the
good work and never stop going for the gold. Jeff West.
Jeff West <jcw10263@hotmail.com>
Homewood, IL. USA - Monday, September 08, 2003 at 08:35:45 (EDT)
Mr.Fagiano. Just surfed on to your page. I was looking for
lessons. Very nice set up, very interesting information. I wil be calling
you soon for some lessons. I can't waite to start learning all the
rudiments. Why don't all teachers teach rudiments and control. Great
picture section. The Very Best for You. Renee
Renee Smith <resmith29@yahoo.com>
Gurnee, IL. USA - Friday, August 22, 2003 at 08:20:56 (EDT)
Wierd, isn't it. My name is the same as yours.
Steve Fagiano <sfagiano@cox.net>
Oceanside, Ca USA - Sunday, August 17, 2003 at 16:36:30 (EDT)
Hi there! Nice Site.
Sakrazitäter
- Friday, August 15, 2003 at 05:52:42 (EDT)
Hi Steve, Love the Website.....Can't wait to share it with
everyone here....Dad and Don say hi.......John would be proud.....Thanks
again for everything......Take Care and talk to you soon..........
Barb Fagiano <bfagiano@hotmail.com>
Phoenix, AZ USA - Thursday, August 07, 2003 at 03:54:19 (EDT)
Steve I am practicing a half hour a day. I am trying to get the
triplet bass mix think. Thanks for the turn on to the accent on the second
beat in the long roll. There are so many things there are to learn. Thanks
Bryan
Bryan Vanhorst <gimps75@hotmail.com>
McHenry, Il USA - Wednesday, August 06, 2003 at 21:12:37 (EDT)
Steve. Good to see your still teaching and turning the area on to
rudiments & controlled set playing. Time is so important to the
drummer. Playing with time is the kind of drummer I look for and always
will. The very,very best. Gail.
Gail Armstrong <gailandsam@aol.com>
Prospect, IL. USA - Wednesday, July 30, 2003 at 17:59:22 (EDT)
Your site is very good. I definitely will return again.Lastminute
lastminute
USA - Tuesday, July 29, 2003 at 08:39:57 (EDT)
Steve. Love your site with all the pictures and pages. Keep them
coming and keep up the good work. Bob
Robert <rag11523@hotmail.com>
Cary, IL. USA - Saturday, July 26, 2003 at 12:44:06 (EDT)
DRUMMER STEVE! love the site, and how you keep us updated on the
new stuff you put on it. somehow u gotta get a better picture of me behind
the set! lol, good bye all u fellow drummers..... ~*Ash*~
Ashley Forti <ASHLEYtheROCKER@aol.com>
Prairie Grove, IL USA - Monday, July 21, 2003 at 15:02:47 (EDT)
HEY STEVE GREAT PICTURES LOOKS LIKE THE CONTEST WAS VERY
SUCCESSFUL .THEY GET BETTER EVERY YEAR ,KEEP IT UP ,YOUR FRIEND AND
STUDENT ALWAYS MIKE THOMAS.
MIKE THOMAS
PHOENIX, AZ USA - Monday, July 14, 2003 at 15:10:42 (EDT)
Great site!
Lisa
USA - Friday, July 11, 2003 at 14:01:18 (EDT)
Steve congratulations to you and all the participants in Heat
Strokes 2003. I wish I could have been there man, it sounds and from the
pictures looks like it was some serious fun and drumming going on. I hope
to one day get to meet you in person, and I remember your Heat Strokes
Comp when it was in Arizona. So congrats to all you drummers and Steve
thanks for the inspiration. Please feel welcome to check out my site when
and if you can, and I hope I can make it out for Heat Strokes in 2004.
Chip Ritter
Chip Ritter
Tucson, AZ USA - Tuesday, July 08, 2003 at 17:37:25 (EDT)
Dear Steve. The Happiest of Birthdays. And may all your dreams
come true. Your passion & dedication come from with in. You appear
hard on the out side & are a teddie bear inside. I wish I had half the
talent you have, in Teaching & Playing. The Best & H.B. Tom.
Tom Lamson <tdl1307@aol.com>
Phoenix, Az. USA - Sunday, June 29, 2003 at 20:02:07 (EDT)
Steve its been years since I last saw you. In fact 10 years the
28th of June. I will always remember your kind words & understanding
with my son. The best to you in all your dreams. They just don't have
enough teachers with heart. Bob & Scott
Robert Cole <drummies@yahoo.com>
LasVegas, Nv. USA - Thursday, June 26, 2003 at 03:18:45 (EDT)
Hey Bro, nice looking page, you have done a fine job on it.
Thanks for keeping me up to date on all the happenings going on Steve.I am
looking forward to seeing all soon, again keep up the good work and I'll
keep in touch. hello to all that may be reading this also. Take care God
Bless.. George....
George Drish <georgedrish@myexcel.com>
Chicago, il. USA - Saturday, June 21, 2003 at 11:22:15 (EDT)
Steve. Great web site & Video. I will be there at contest to
see & pick up stuff from all the Drummers. The Rudimnts are the things
I was never taught and how important are they ? Why do teachers think is
is not important to teach them. Take a look at all the good drummers and
you will see them playing them to death. All the jazz guys, how did I not
know. Jimmy
Jimmy Moore
Chicago, Il. USA - Wednesday, June 11, 2003 at 23:40:27 (EDT)
Thought I'd sign...
Buy Propecia <tom@hotmail.com>
USA - Wednesday, June 11, 2003 at 12:33:02 (EDT)
Steve. Great web site & pic's. I am looking forward to your
Drum Contest & seeing all the drummers. I can't tell you how much your
video has helped me already. I didn't know that all those rudiments were
around. You were right Power is nothing with out control. The Best Bryan.
Bryan Cutter <bcc2515@aol.com>
Woodstock , Il. USA - Tuesday, June 03, 2003 at 13:10:39 (EDT)
Great Photos! I like how you update the web site. I got your
phone message last week. Where & When for my prelim drum solo? I've
been practicing. Lemme know 'bout the location for the end of May. Later,
the Flack Attack.
Mike Flack <mflack47@yahoo.com>
Osage, IA USA - Thursday, May 15, 2003 at 12:58:26 (EDT)
Steve, I wish the contest was out west, then I could get my hands
on some of those prizes. Any body who dosn't enter should go see the
doctor. This is the best contest ever, I was in the first one in
Scottsdale in 1996. we only had 5 sponcors & it was in a 115 degress.
get it [ heat strokes ] Take it all the way. Your student since 93 Bazz.
still use your video..
Basil Taylor <bsltyr@yahoo.com>
Phoenix, Az USA - Wednesday, May 14, 2003 at 03:22:13 (EDT)
Steve, I remember watching you at both State and Nationals. You
put on quite a show. I marched with 3 corps from 1961 to 1968 and played
baritone and contra. They were the Purple Knights, Phantom Regiment, and
for a very brief time thanks to Uncle Sam the Royal Airs. I sure missed
not being able to march a complete season with the Royals. It was always
one of my dreams to wear that uniform. At least I got to wear it a couple
of times before duty called. I'll always remember "youse guys" with
fondness and love.I think it's great what you all are doing to show what
real drum corp is all about. If you all are still going strong in another
year or two I may just try to join you to finish that season I never got
to. GO BIG BLUE!!! All the best this year and in years to come. Yours In
Drum Corp Spirit, Warren
Warren Pierson <jagfan1000@yahoo.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Tuesday, May 06, 2003 at 07:45:26 (EDT)
HI STEVE GREAT WEB SITE ,I WISH YOU THE BEST OF LUCK WITH EVERY
THING YOU DO .I WOULD LOVE TO SEE SOME OF THE DRUM CORPS STUFF ON VIDEO OR
DVD ,KEEP ME IN MIND.MIKE THOMAS DRUMS712003@YAHOO.COM.
MIKE THOMAS
PHOENIX, AZ USA - Monday, May 05, 2003 at 19:23:08 (EDT)
Hey Steve, Good to hear your back. Many years have passed and we
all change. Good to see your getting better @ it all. How's some thirty
second note paradiddles aruond the kit. Have fun in Chicgao, its where
your heart is. G.S.
Gary Stewart <dogcdude@yahoo.com>
Gary, Il USA - Monday, May 05, 2003 at 14:45:01 (EDT)
Impressive web site. Looks like things are going alot better for
you than when I first met you. Remember don't forget the little people
when you make it big.
Gary Remore <garrem@msn.com>
Glendale, AZ USA - Thursday, April 24, 2003 at 00:07:16 (EDT)
Hey Steve, Its kool that ur my drum teacher, im really learning a
lot. Thanx Chase
Chase <Board4life90@37.com>
Algonquin, il USA - Monday, April 14, 2003 at 17:29:22 (EDT)
hi i want to know where i can find a snare sheet with a back
sticking exercise or feature ???
jonathan <shawnmike19@hotmail.com>
USA - Sunday, April 13, 2003 at 17:40:33 (EDT)
Steve Your web site is great & I am learning rudiments &
things I never knew before. I am also looking forward to your drum
contest. Thank you for your patience & dedication. Sonny.
Sonny Molina <folkartlures@aol.com>
Woodstock, Il. USA - Friday, April 04, 2003 at 19:46:12 (EST)
Steve- I want to get in the contest & start training. I've
learned a lot w/ Drum Rudiments & you helped me developed new ideas on
the drumset. Looking forward to the competition so I can talk about it
with my friends in Panama. Thank You Daniel
Daniel Villarreal <danvilone@hotmail.com>
Woodstock, Il. USA - Tuesday, April 01, 2003 at 20:52:56 (EST)
Hey, more Spread Eagle pictures!!! Nice site. Go to www.
Book-a-Band.TV and check it out
Michael Eberlein <Burstpaul@aol.com>
Bolingbrook, USA - Wednesday, March 26, 2003 at 11:46:43 (EST)
Way to go RA Drummers: Ray-Rich-Bill-Jim-Skip-Paul-Gio-
John-Mouse1-Tim-Jim-Chris-Terry-Billy-Mouse2-Don-Lenny- Bobby-Dan C.
Scott. Ed & Adam. What a summer it will be !! Humblely Yours.
C.H.C.R.A.
D.I. <RoyalAir1965@webtv.net>
Chicago, IL. USA - Tuesday, March 18, 2003 at 14:24:28 (EST)
Just surfed in.
Barry
Bogart <barry2k@citlink.net>
Port Crane, NY USA - Friday, March 14, 2003 at 19:24:24 (EST)
That makes two of us Gary. The Best of luck.
Deborah
USA - Thursday, March 13, 2003 at 00:49:37 (EST)
Just dropped in to say Hi.
Gary
USA - Thursday, March 13, 2003 at 00:17:49 (EST)
Steve, you've come a long way from that black-and-blue mark I saw
the drill instructor drum on your shoulder in Marine Corps boot camp with
that big drumstick (M-14). I see you've been uptown, downtown and
crosstown. You've always been a "riot." All the best and good luck! Your
old buddy, George
George S. Gottlieb <Gottlieb1@aol.com>
Streamwood, IL USA - Friday, March 07, 2003 at 11:50:26 (EST)
Hi Steve,are Flavio,an italian student with your surname do yo
want begin an corrispondence with me?Pleas e answere but nt with
VIRUS,ok?Flavio
Flavio Fagiano <flavio-fagiano@libero.it>
PISCINA, ITALY - Wednesday, March 05, 2003 at 04:23:46 (EST)
Steve, I just had to come here and tell you what a "hoot" I had
this weekend listening to your drum line. Voodoo Moon is going to kick
butt this year with your drum line. All I can say is unbelieveable!!!!!!
Get Williamson and Chuck S. back so they can enjoy and contribute to the
2003 Royal Airs drum line. Your Union Brother, Carl
Carl Fiocca <Carl.Fiocca@xrxgsn.com>
Manhattan, IL USA - Monday, February 17, 2003 at 21:36:42 (EST)
Steve I only known where you came from, & where you are. We
are all put here for a reason & it is music by far. Don't look back,
keep your mind in the right direction. & the Royalairs will glide thru
2003. the best to you & the RA drum corps a friend.
a friend <notimportant@yahoo.com>
Garfield, N.J. USA - Monday, February 17, 2003 at 20:29:33 (EST)
NICE WEB SITE. PHONE IS 708-565-7425.
SCOTT NICKELS <DRUMCORPS74@MSN.COM>
OSWEGO, IL USA - Tuesday, February 11, 2003 at 13:37:29 (EST)
Steve, Thanks for keeping me up to date on all thats going on
with the corps.Oh how I wish I could have been part of what you have been
doing this past year.I'm soo proud of all of you.Good luck with all your
ventures and lets stay in touch.Fellow Spartan.Royal Air, Marine and
friend of almost 40 years Bob Niedrich
Bob Niedrich <bniedrich@prodigy.net>
Freehold, NJ USA - Tuesday, February 11, 2003 at 13:08:29 (EST)
Steve It is so good to see you still following your dream. From
the days on rush st, to the Chicago Auditorium. You were always a pro.
& had the best solo I ever heard. You & Tommy Aldridge. Best of
luck to you & the Royalairs. Bob
Bob Evans
Chicago, Il. USA - Sunday, February 09, 2003 at 11:22:25 (EST)
419
bella 419
lagos, USA - Thursday, February 06, 2003 at 05:01:58 (EST)
Hey, I would just like to spend about half hour expressing my my
love for the tenor line, the way they play and there work ethic.
ha,ha,ha,.... See you at camp Ray
Ray Mietus <rjmietus@eiu.edu>
USA - Wednesday, February 05, 2003 at 12:59:00 (EST)
Dear Steve, Keep up the great work, we don't get older we just
keep getting better. Love ya Karen
Karen Angel <kangel@homesbystarck.com>
bloomingdale, il USA - Tuesday, February 04, 2003 at 12:54:41 (EST)
Steve. Its been 45 + years of friendship & I think your web
site is out of site. Very well done & I wish you the best of luck w/
the Royal-Airs in 2003. Knowing your talents in Teaching & Playing, I
know the RA Drumline wil be powerful & the best drum line that anyone
has ever seen. Best wishes Your Buddy Mike.
Mike Ghilardi
McHenry, Il. USA - Monday, February 03, 2003 at 15:44:38 (EST)
Steve- Congratulations on such a fine web site and all of your
recent achievements! You deserve it Steve! You are one hell of a nice guy,
Instructor, and friends. Your video is superb! Looking forward to seeing
you and of course your Chi-RA this 2003 season. Again, keep up the great
work!
Steve Ventre <Bayonne71@aol.com>
Bayonne, NJ USA - Saturday, January 25, 2003 at 12:10:27 (EST)
It is sooooo good to be doing this once again. I relish your
dedication. You are our inspiration. Can't wait for February, third
weekend. Thanks man! P.S. Please don't tell Carm I'm not Italian.
Mouse <bluedrummer@juno.com>
Roseville, MN USA - Friday, January 24, 2003 at 06:56:30 (EST)
DCA FAN SPEAKING OF TENOR PARTS i REALLY LIKE YOUR SINGLE TENOR
LINE .SAW THEM IN SCRANTON THE SNARES WERE GREAT. BUT, WOW I HAVE NEVER
SEEN SUCH DIFFICULT TENOR PARTS HOPE TO SEE YOU GUYS AGAIN THANKS FOR A
GREAT SHOW STEVE KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK WITH THE ROYAL AIRS DRUM LINE.
JIM HILL
USA - Wednesday, January 22, 2003 at 15:07:58 (EST)
very difficult tenor feature and DYNAMICS! very kool steve
Brian Tolzman
USA - Monday, January 20, 2003 at 22:24:00 (EST)
1965 Chicago Royalaires - one of the finest drumlines of the day.
Notice the linear split accent patterns between the snares and toms, flam
drags, a very difficult tenor feature and DYNAMICS! Also, check out the
"groove" as the horn line enters with "Watermelon Man" - one of the early
attempts to use the drumline to mimic a drumset/rhythm section
Dennis DeLucia
USA - Monday, January 20, 2003 at 22:16:06 (EST)
Hello My Friend! Glad I found your site, congratulations on your
success. I have many great memories of working with you and always value
our friendship, football season just ain't been the same the last few
years without you! Get in touch brother.
Ronnie Keel <ronniekeel@lycos.com>
Nashville, TN USA - Sunday, January 19, 2003 at 15:47:39 (EST)
Congratulations on a great web site. I'm happy for you - for your
past accomplishments, your current successes, and for the enthusiam with
which you approach the future. I look foward to helping you this year. Ed.
Ed Roberts <ej2@prodigy.net>
Schiller Park, IL USA - Wednesday, January 15, 2003 at 19:53:19 (EST)
Steve. I first got to see the Video today. I did not no that Drum
Rudimets were so important. You played them slow so you could understand
the pattern & then fast, to show what could be done w/control. Also
the Video of the Royal-Airs was Great. What a sound & what a show. I
can't wait to see it live this summer. Your new Friend Mike.
Mike Green
Huntley, IL. USA - Wednesday, January 15, 2003 at 10:43:06 (EST)
Thanks for the lession today and your patience-see you Friday at
Royal Air practice. By the way, nice job of decorating your house. JK
Jim Kemnitz <jimc.kemnitz@energizer.com>
sycamore, il. USA - Sunday, January 12, 2003 at 18:17:22 (EST)
Steve- Kick ass video. I learned a lot from it, even more than my
days w/ the Bridgemen. Am looking forward to 2003 under your direction @
The 2003 Chicago Royal-Airs. yours @ R.A. Don Dumper Bass Drummer.
Don Dumper <Dumper@yahoo.com>
Carol Stream, Il. USA - Sunday, January 12, 2003 at 17:14:12 (EST)
Very Impressive Steve !!!! Gonna Get Your Number From Debbie Hope
You Can Find Time To Come Around Gotta Show You My Set !!!! And Maybe You
Can Show Me A Thing Or Two !!!! Talk To You Soon
Michael Muir <TempDr@yahoo.com>
Chicago, Il. USA - Wednesday, January 08, 2003 at 23:14:18 (EST)
Great site, and very good to see how active your staying. See you
in 2003. Jeff
Jeff Helgeson <jhelgeso@roosevelt.edu>
Chicago, Illinois USA - Tuesday, January 07, 2003 at 14:01:47 (EST)
Steve, Looks good..., very good
Tom O'Neill <thoneill@sbcglobal.net>
Indpls, IN USA - Sunday, January 05, 2003 at 20:58:03 (EST)
Steve I can only wish you were here in Tennessee helping us. It
was an extraordinary pleasure to meet you at DCA and relive some wonderful
moments of Drum Corps.Maybe they will make the Smoking section bigger for
2003 !! ---Bill Clendenon, Director , The Presidents Drum and Bugle Corps.
Bill Clendenon <prescorp@xtn.net>
Greeneville, tn USA - Saturday, January 04, 2003 at 13:49:23 (EST)
i enjoyed your website steve and can still remember your first
drum corps lesson.you were always special and very talented.i am glad we
found each other back then,ranger. remember ma ma ..daddy
don devitt <dondot72@hotmail.com>
orland hills, il USA - Saturday, January 04, 2003 at 12:50:48 (EST)
Hey Steve, I finally found your site - very impressive. I only
wish you the best of luck and am most definetly looking forward to
marching w/you & Royals 2003. Your partner -- Mouse.
Mouse <KFLIG@GTE.NET>
CHICAGO, IL USA - Sunday, December 29, 2002 at 12:28:06 (EST)
Steve I like the web site, Everything brings back great memories.
We have to this this RA thing one more time. I am looking forward to
marching with one of the best Drum lines in history. I don't think a
junior corps now days could play the stuff your guys play in the snare
line. After 1980 the the drum judging went to NO ticks. can't wait till
the 3rd. week in Jan. Period.. Jeff Hart #1 Bass Drum RA
Jeff Hart
Crystal Lake, Il USA - Thursday, December 26, 2002 at 12:00:24 (EST)
Steve-The site just keeps getting better. Nice photo gallery, but
I don't remember you being that young? Enjoy the holidays, I'll see you in
a month.
Connell Griffin <connellpgriffin@yahoo.com>
Chicago, IL USA - Tuesday, December 24, 2002 at 11:00:32 (EST)
Steve- A friend of mine turned me on to your video. She knows you
from the Grand Princess Cruise Liner. Just wanted to say thank you for
turning me on the the American Drum Rudiments. Her name is Paula Clark.
Jim from Toronto Canada, key board player was her boy friend. A lot of
good reports on your Drumming habits. Lots of power & good singer.
Best of luck Mick.
Mick Watson <mcwhorn@yahoo.com>
London, England - Monday, December 23, 2002 at 01:08:59 (EST)
Steve - Great addition to the site with your lesson downloads!
Nice touch to the site and an easy place to manuever too! I'll forward
your link to several people ... I'm sure my friends can reap benefits from
your expertise. Hope to see you in Oswego in January. - AFLACK ... the
Flack Attack !!!
Mike Flack <mflack47@yahoo.com>
Osage, IA USA - Friday, December 20, 2002 at 14:52:09 (EST)
I have heard about you for years, and now I can finally get some
lessons. The Video is also a great stocking stuffer for me & some
friends. I look forward to seeing you play live & inproving my chops.
I know some guys you have drummed with. In Spread Eagle & Chameleon on
the south side. What stories I have. Keep it up you will help a lot of
people with your knowledge.Karen
Karen Rakow <krow@webtv.net>
Chicago, Il USA - Wednesday, December 18, 2002 at 13:56:19 (EST)
Great site!! Looking forward to seeing you and the rest of the
R.A.'s in 2003. sam diprima
sam diprima <sdiprima@wideopenwest.com>
naperville, il USA - Wednesday, December 18, 2002 at 09:59:53 (EST)
Is this site Only for Italians, or are you letting anyone in?
Carm LoGalbo <carm@mbspc.com>
Bourbonnais, IL USA - Monday, December 16, 2002 at 18:47:52 (EST)
Hi Steve, Stephanie told me I just had to check your site out.
Hopefully I will be able to come back to Chicago sometime with Stephanie
and meet you. Just thought I would say hi. Dane
Dane Briggs <LDTB@juno.com>
Tucson, az USA - Thursday, December 05, 2002 at 20:55:45 (EST)
Hello, Steve. Saw your entry on the Yankee Rebels guest page and
I thought I would say hi. I'm a horn player so your website is
understandably foreign to me. I have heard that we will be playing a tune
with the Royal Airs next season so I will look forward to meeting some of
the corps members. Hope all is well. Robbie Ellis, Solo Soprano, Yankee
Rebels.
Robbie Ellis <robellis@comcast.net>
philadelphia, pa USA - Thursday, December 05, 2002 at 10:27:09 (EST)
Hey Uncle Steve! I always knew you were awesome, this site just
proves it even more! We miss having you in town, but hopefully we will be
able to make it to Chicago and see you. Good luck with everything! Love
your niece, Steph
Stephanie York <smy3@hotmail.com>
Tucson, AZ USA - Wednesday, December 04, 2002 at 20:00:34 (EST)
Hey Steve great site, sorry i didnt call you back or sign your
guest book last time i didnt see the add part. Your a great drummer and
hopefully i can start getting lesson some time soon, keep up the good
work, see ya later
Kyle Tarpinian
Cary, Il USA - Monday, December 02, 2002 at 21:32:43 (EST)
Hey bud, just another well done project. For all those searching
for an instructor, "THIS IS THE GUY TO SEE" Good luck and talk to ya soon.
Bart Lamb
Mchenry, IL USA - Sunday, December 01, 2002 at 09:30:10 (EST)
This is an awsome web page. I hope to be taking lessons from you
very soon. cya
Vince Constanzo <racingbanchee1@aol.com>
Elgin, IL USA - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 15:43:38 (EST)
Steve; SIMPLY THE BEST.
Maria Modica ..aka ..DiPrima <princess_lil_feather@yahoo.com>
Paw Paw , mi USA - Tuesday, November 26, 2002 at 22:45:18 (EST)
Good looking web page. Practicing my chops for this summer with
the Royal Airs. I wish there was enough excitement in southern Illinois to
get together a Black Knights Alumni corps. See y'all in December.
Joel West <jwest@fultoniron.net>
Belleville, Il USA - Monday, November 25, 2002 at 17:42:49 (EST)
Ah, your fudgie-ness....a gorgeous web page. It sure has been a
pleasure marching/socializing with you.
Bob "webguy" Doran <rdoran8728@aol.com>
McHenry, IL USA - Monday, November 25, 2002 at 13:42:31 (EST)
Hey Steve, great pix. Lookin' foward to seein' you all this
comin' summer Dog
Dennis "Dog" Evans <devans65@yahoo.com>
Elk Grove, Il USA - Sunday, November 24, 2002 at 14:51:45 (EST)
hey happy b-day yes I forgot . Icould'nt get out there this year
but looking for april,may time frame for a week. later
mark wicke <markw1021@email.com>
phoenix, az USA - Friday, November 22, 2002 at 17:16:59 (EST)
Steve, Everything about you is just great. Great drummer, great
teacher, great web site, great experiences. It was a pleasure to have
marched with you in the 2002 Royal Air drum line, an experience I'll never
forget. Thank you for your support. Chuck Craft RA 2002 Tenor Drum
Chuck Craft <chuckcraft@aol.com>
Austin, TX USA - Friday, November 22, 2002 at 16:24:33 (EST)
Great site, Steve, and thanks for the email. I signed up as an
official 2003 Royal Air volunteer, helping Carm with marketing, pr and
development. Good luck this season!
Colleen Devitt Karuuza <celticquill@yahoo.com>
Buffalo, NY USA - Friday, November 22, 2002 at 13:45:52 (EST)
Nice site! Lots of good stuff for anyone who wants to broaden
their playing fundimentals and then some. Looking forward to playing again
with you in the Royal Airs.
Jim "Insanity" Schehr <jimschehr@hotmail.com>
Chicago, IL. USA - Friday, November 22, 2002 at 12:36:54 (EST)
Was great to see you at DCA, Steve! Best of luck! "Munchkin"
Dan Fitzpatrick <danfitz1@erols.com>
East Fallowfield, PA USA - Thursday, November 21, 2002 at 21:11:42 (EST)
My 3 favorite corps of all time- Chi Angels, Spartans, and Big
Blue. Glad to see Blue rise up and live again.
Jack Ross <wilberandchuck@yahoo.com>
Walker, MI USA - Thursday, November 21, 2002 at 15:00:30 (EST)
Hey Steve, This is Bonnie's son Ricky your site is really cool!
My Aunt Judie would check it out but she is a cave woman and does'nt have
a computer yet. Its only the twentyfirst century. Good luck, RJ
Rick Jameson <rjanp@attbi.com>
Hillside, IL USA - Wednesday, November 20, 2002 at 21:18:27 (EST)
Steve, As everyone says your page looks great. I judged many
shows this past summer where R.A. performed, and they were great! Good
luck on your drum contest...hope to see you soon.
Tom Roe <fids66@aol.com>
Henderson, NV USA - Wednesday, November 20, 2002 at 15:46:02 (EST)
Fantastic Site!!! I saved it as one of my FAVORITES. If everyone
would tell just one person about your website ... then, there would be
twice as many people accessing it. Just a thought. Everybody enjoys your
drumming and I'm sure they would enjoy your website. Ask 'em. I bet they
agree! Drummingly yours ... the 'Flack Attack'.
Mike Flack <mflack47@yahoo.com>
Osage, IA USA - Wednesday, November 20, 2002 at 15:01:30 (EST)
Football,Drums&______! Way to go!
Jeffrey Cunning
Phoenix, AZ usa - Wednesday, November 20, 2002 at 09:28:36 (EST)
Steve - Great website, Great Video. Keep up the work I get better
& better as time goes by. Your student from Illinois. Thank God you
came back. Jim
Jim Banks
Mt.Prospect, IL. USA - Wednesday, November 20, 2002 at 07:35:42 (EST)
Steve, What can i say that has not been already said. It's an o.k
web site.Skratafran.Steaks have been salsburied. Your loving neph Me! Your
loving nephew John,
John <jfagiano@hotmail.com>
phoenix, az USA - Wednesday, November 20, 2002 at 00:38:34 (EST)
Steve, your web site looks great. I am very happy to see your
success. Miss having you here in AZ but you gave this town something the
kids need; the guidance and vision to show them what great fruit comes
from practice and competition in drum corp. And, what a great life it is.
If only those kids could experience just a little of what we have, they
would jump on that train and start reaping the rewards ASAP. Hopefully
your site will show them a taste of the good life they too could have with
a little discipline and hard work. Hope you see you come back and keep the
spirit going here too. Enjoy the abundance you have created.
Pete Cerchiara <cerch@earthlink.net>
Scottsdale, AZ USA - Monday, November 18, 2002 at 23:03:19 (EST)
Steve, Keep up the good work and thanks for all your help. Semper
Fi. Dennis
Dennis Kranc <pdjek6@ameritech.net>
Lansing, Il. USA - Monday, November 18, 2002 at 12:14:43 (EST)
Steve,Best Whishes & Good Luck with your web site it really
looks great.Its always been a pleasure watching you perform on and off the
field.Thank you for your contribution in making the ROYAL AIRE Reunion
corps happen. it was great watching a truly great drum corps perform once
again and seeing old friends from the corps and neighborhood.Your pride
& dedication is unsurpassed.I look forward to seeing you an the corps
again next year. GO BIG BLUE
david rizzo <darizzo@dellepro.com>
carpentersville, il USA - Friday, November 15, 2002 at 09:08:02 (EST)
Hey Bro, -:- I am very impressed with your web-site -:- You have
done a fine job. I also read all the comments of the others, and am happy
to see alot of my old friends here also. It's nice to see everyone keeping
in touch with each other. And I have always been impressed with your
{Drumming}talents. You are indeed the very best. So Please keep up the
great work Bro, good Health & Luck ...I maintain. RA Forever!!
George...
George Drish <georgedrish@myexcel.com>
Chicago, IL . USA - Friday, November 15, 2002 at 08:41:27 (EST)
So wonderful to see these pictures, old and new. Thanks for all
of your dedication and inspiration. You are the master.
Mouse <rtgeis@juno.com>
Roseville, MN USA - Thursday, November 14, 2002 at 12:55:02 (EST)
I have always enjoyed your KICKASS drumming! I remember the first
concert I ever attended at the Chicago Auditorium. I saw a band callled
"Chameleon" with the most talented drummer in the world. The whole family
was there to see you play. The sound system didn't work to well but it
made no difference the way you pounded the drums that night! Must of
broken a dozen or more sticks! The best times were your private drumming
sessions in Chi-town and Phoenix. I still have some good BOOTLEG tapes.
I'm glad you have stuck with what you were meant to do. All the best
wishes to you. Keep on DRUMMING!! Your Nephew, TOMMY.
Tom York <mrtwy@msn.com>
Palm Springs, CA USA - Thursday, November 14, 2002 at 02:17:21 (EST)
Fudgie, Great site! Looking at those pictures of us from '65
reminded me of how good you were back then. Hard to believe that your'e
even better now. Only thing I can think of that would improve the site is
more pictures of me. Best wishes to my fellow State champ.
Jim Angarola <jimangarola@webtv.net>
Aurora, IL USA - Thursday, November 14, 2002 at 02:12:32 (EST)
Way to go, Steve! Great web site. I love it! Everything about it
is the best, just like you when it comes to drums. I finally got to see
the Scranton video of you on the drum set and the snare drum in individual
competitions. WOW!!! It was great marching with you in the 2002 Royal Air
snare line. Thanks for all that you did to improve our drum line this
year! God bless and take care.
Bob Minor <bobminor@hotmail.com>
Ocala, FL USA - Wednesday, November 13, 2002 at 15:32:23 (EST)
Nice web page, Steve! Easy and quick to manuever. Thanks for the
entertaining summer with the Royal Airs. You guys & gals rocked the
house in DeKalb and Madison. Sorry I didn't make Scranton. Hope to see you
soon at a practice session. E-mail me after you back from Ohio. Later. -
the Flack Attack (NOT: AFLAC)
Mike Flack <mflack47@yahoo.com>
Osage, IA USA - Tuesday, November 12, 2002 at 17:55:29 (EST)
Great site Steve! I've been practicing my paradiddles in hopes of
going to the drum line this year. Damn horn is too heavy. Good luck and
enjoy life. Carl
Carl Fiocca <Carl.fiocca@xrxgsn.com>
Manhattan, IL USA - Tuesday, November 12, 2002 at 16:23:09 (EST)
Steve/Great job with the new site and once again kudo's on a
magnificiant RA drum line in 2002. 2002 was truely a year for the history
books in the Royal Airs archives. Best wishes for the 2003 season...Bill
Carter/Alum
Bill Carter <bcjrstl@yahoo.com>
St.Louis, MO USA - Tuesday, November 12, 2002 at 05:46:58 (EST)
Hello, Steve. What a great site! Congratulations on your
successful launch. When we last spoke, you mentioned you are also working
on another video, and I am looking forward to purchasing this. Hope you
still use the blue shirt. For those of you who may not know Steve, may I
offer a few thoughts about him. Steve has been drumming all of his life. I
first knew him in the drum line of the Royal Airs in 1965, and again was
fortunate to work with him in 2002. Steve possesses a highly developed
playing skill with a full instrument. This strength presents as a pleasing
freedom and power when performing, a spellbinding and distinguishing
characteristic of his style. The touch and evenness of his ability produce
passages which are rarely surpassed. It is a delight to witness his
musical expression. Fortunately, Steve is also a teacher, with the main
quality being his desire to help others develop. I know I am quite lucky
for the opportunity of working with him once more this coming year. Thanks
for your inspiring efforts, Steve. Mouse
Richard Geis <rtgeis@juno.com>
Minneapolis, MN USA - Tuesday, November 12, 2002 at 02:12:57 (EST)
Dear Uncle Steve, Your site is very impressive and professional.
I hope that is bring you much luck and business! Love, Linda
Linda York <linda.york@viacore.net>
Irvine, CA USA - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 16:53:06 (EST)
This is cutting edge Steve !!Nice job! Maybe you can teach me a
thing or two .I could use it. Mike
Michael <giammam@nationwide.com>
Columbus , oh USA - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 06:58:08 (EST)
Steve, For anyone who doesn't know the talent you have, let me
educate them now. I have known Steve for close to 30 years now. We started
out with a band called Gramma's Rice Pudding which featured Jim Rice. Jim
was singing lead for a top Chicago group when he was called to Viet Nam.
He returned from the war with a glass eye and a plate in his head. By the
way, the group he had left behind changed their name to CHICAGO while he
was gone. Steve and I traveled together for a few years with this band.
After a few new members that didn't work out, Steve and I recruited a
guitarist named Louie Barbaro. We tried for quite some time to think of an
appropriate name for the band. One day, while sitting in Steve's bedroom
on Lowe Street, Steve blurted out Centrifugal Force. We played under that
name for the next three or four years, traveling the States and playing to
enthusiastic crowds. Sometime when you're talking to Steve, ask him to
tell you the "ELEVATOR" story! We went on from there to add a keyboard
player named David Lee "You Cheap F#$(*& Ja&^%$&^%$" Miller.
We went through some more personnel changes and added guitarist Jimmy
Smith. We re-named the group "Tequila Mockingbird." This was a pretty
powerful original band. We did quite a bit of recording but never got the
promo we needed to make it happen. We then went on to the David Lee Miller
Band. Same members, different ego trip! Some people just have to hear
their own name for it to satisfy their ego! When that group disbanded,
Steve and I kind of went our separate ways, but remained friends
throughout. He moved on to Spread Eagle, which became one of the hottest
rock bands in Chicago. After playing all of the major rock clubs and
sharing the concert stage with Quicksilver Messenger Service, the group
went through some problems with the bass player and he quit. Steve called
me up and I got together with the keyboard player, Gabriel Magno, a
crammed the material to cover a show they had coming up. The bass player
showed up at the gig figuring the band would flop, and when he realized he
could very easily be replaced, begged the guys to let him back in. I
opened a 24 track studio in downtown Chicago and Steve played on numerous
sessions. After he moved to Arizona we lost touch for a while, but
reconnected on many occasions after that. I flew out to Arizona to
videotape Steve's very first Hot Licks contest. I still laugh every time I
watch that thing Steve when I asked you to do a swiss roll, go into
back-sticking, and come out with a 13 stroke roll-around and you go into
your "Grover" voice and say " Yeah! And then put on a cape and fly out the
window!" Anyway, I've known Steve as a room-mate, travel companion,
friend, confidant and brother. He is without a doubt, one of the finest
drummers in the world and I am happy to see that he has never given up his
quest. Steve, keep up the hard work and remember.Ba falu steda de
mingia!!!!! Sam skyhero1@pacbell.net
Sam Gallo
El Dorado Hills, CA USA - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 00:27:32 (EST)
Steve Good Luck! Your Royal Airs family is out here for you.
Jackie Borrelli <jsb0119@aol.com>
Naperville, IL USA - Sunday, November 10, 2002 at 23:23:15 (EST)
Great Site - We will be watching from AZ!
Mary Ann <knitmah@att.net>
Surprise, AZ USA - Sunday, November 10, 2002 at 22:14:53 (EST)
hey fellow musicians! i've been drumming with steve for a couple
months now and it's gettin easier at every lesson... sorta. it's still
hard for me to do 3 things at once but i'm learning really fast. i was so
excited to start drums and hopefully i'll get a kit for christmas.
everyone keep a ROCKIN! ~*Ashley*~
Ashley 40 <ASHLEYtheROCKER@aol.com>
Crystal Lake, IL USA - Sunday, November 10, 2002 at 14:40:37 (EST)
Hey Bro Beautiful Web site. This one you can be proud of good
luck with it. All of the drumming on the furniture we had to listen to in
your younger years has really paid off. Best darn drummer I ever
heard.....Love Phyl
Phyllis York <pyphx@hotmail.com>
Phoenix, AZ USA - Sunday, November 10, 2002 at 13:09:48 (EST)
As a producer, it is essential that a drummer knows his chops
without having to run over the track 100 times. If you can do it in one
take it's the best take you get. Thank you Steve for your talent and the
video that is cultivating more young drummers to follow in your footsteps.
You referred Charlie Sutter to me and he is excellent, no doubt being one
of your top students. Keep up the good work! Talk to you soon.
Steve Dodge <SteveDodge1@aol.com>
Scottsdale, Az USA - Friday, November 08, 2002 at 20:56:00 (EST)
Steve, your site is fantastic! I am really impressed. I am also
impressed that you actually taught my 65 year old husband to keep rhythm!
Proud to be a Royal Air for 2003!!!
Adrianne (Kaplan) Mahoney <adimahoney@attbi.com>
Schaumburg, IL USA - Friday, November 08, 2002 at 18:57:04 (EST)
Steve - great beginning!!! Couldn't believe the DCA individual
scores - you scored at least 130 in my eyes. Hope to you see you and Kathy
very soon. Loved the pictures, especially the one showing you and Angarola
has the champions that you still are... Ken SZ
Ken Szadowski <kszadowski@owc.net>
Carpentersville, IL USA - Friday, November 08, 2002 at 18:12:03 (EST)
Steve? Steve! Steve... Since I have know this man I have learned
more about top caliber drumming then in all my previous years playing!
Rudiments and consistancy are the keys, and thanks to Steve Fagiano's drum
video, I have a PERFECT tool for my practice sessions! Thank you Steve for
persevering and making sure that this gets out to the young players that
are just starting out, as well as guys like me the need the direction you
provide! Best of Luck in ALL your endeavors! ===Steven===>>
Steven Goldstein <wilgar31@hotmail.com>
Phoenix, AZ USA - Friday, November 08, 2002 at 16:44:12 (EST)
Hey Steve - what a great web site! I'm impressed! Hope to see you
and Kathy for the holidays. Your cousin, Joan
Joan Pagano <joanvince@aol.com>
Park Ridge, IL USA - Friday, November 08, 2002 at 16:38:43 (EST)
Steve or should I say CIA !! This "sight" ROX !! I agree with
eventually adding some sound bytes in the future or maybe an initial home
page that jumps out at ya ... You have time. Enjoyed meeting, marching and
our deep meaningful discussions throughout the season. You are one of a
kind so its' wonderful the world of percussion is going to get a taste
;-o) I wish you well and I will be promoting your cause with
percussionists that I come in contact with. Live long & prosper ;-o)
WaterMelonMorgMan <BMorgan@Scholle.com>
Elgin, IL USA - Friday, November 08, 2002 at 14:09:15 (EST)
steve congradulations and a extreme lucky new year in2003 please
say hello to your better half.between the marines and gene krupa I don t
know which of you aI love the mostnI am glad I am one of the few to see
you play and get down . kep shaking those wrist and bounding them sticks
to the perfect roll. hope to see you in 2003 ex marine family and friend
Richard york
richard york <yorkrn@hotmail.com>
phoenix, AZ United States - Friday, November 08, 2002 at 14:00:07 (EST)
hey, steve ... congrats on the great site ... i'd get a lot more
work done if i wasn't spending so much time going through it all ... great
pictures, too (seems like we all had more hair back then) ... i had a
blast marching in royal airs with you this season (and i'm happy to report
the bruises on my chest from the end of the "john brown" sing-throughs are
finally starting to fade) ... good luck with the massive business this is
sure to generate ... see ya soon, i hope ... go big blue!
jim tarbox <jtarbox@pioneerpress.com>
st. paul, mn USA - Friday, November 08, 2002 at 12:30:19 (EST)
Right on Steve! I'm very impressed with what you did with this
site. I didn't know you knew so much about computers. Keep up the great
work. I look forward to seeing you with R.A. in 2003!
Bob <rjmujica@excite.com>
North Riverside, Ill USA - Friday, November 08, 2002 at 12:00:49 (EST)
BEST OF LUCK TO YOU ALWAYS. GO BIG BLUE!
PAULA SPROVIERI(DOMICO) <paula.sprovieri@midamericabank.com>
NAPERVILLE, IL USA - Friday, November 08, 2002 at 09:02:20 (EST)
Your page is one I found while surfing drum sites. Looks pretty
cool. Please put me on the list. Thanks.
Steve Wheeler <stevew33@qwest.net>
Phoenix, AZ USA - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 23:58:42 (EST)
After hearing your solo performance at the 2002 DCA I&Es;, if
there is a better drummer, I've yet to hear him/her. Great website Ski
Royal Airs Baritone 'Chicks Dig Us'
Bob (Ski) Waninski <Rwaninski@msn.com>
Carol Stream, Il USA - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 22:49:24 (EST)
Hey Steve, Nice job. I see what you do with all your spare time.
Excellent site.
connell (13) <connellpgriffin@yahoo.com>
USA - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 18:50:18 (EST)
What a great website, loved all the pictures. Hoping to see you
for the holidays. Love Bonnie
Bonnie Jameson <Bean 8241@aol.com>
Morton Grove, il.Steve USA - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 17:37:28 (EST)
steve good job hope to see you&kathy; over the holidays
chuckie <c.fagiano@attbi.com>
des plaines, il USA - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 17:20:08 (EST)
Great site Steve! I really like the picture from 1975! I also
played at the Auditorium Theater that year with the opening act for James
Brown! Keith Harper, 1st Soprano, Royal Airs
Keith Harper <porkeiharp@aol.com>
Mount Prospect, IL USA - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 14:07:04 (EST)
Steve, excellent website! Best wishes in this business endeavor.
I know you will be a success as you were in helping the Royal Airs 2002
drum line become an awesome group. Make it happen!
Jerry Fritz <jfritz@bus.wisc.edu>
Oregon, WI USA - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 14:03:43 (EST)
Great site, I like the picture of you and Jimmy, (yes we were all
that young once!
Carm LoGalbo <carm@mbspc.com>
Bourbonnais, IL USA - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 13:51:19 (EST)
Nice web site! I hope you get loads of business from it. Can you
teach old guys like me too?
John Williamson <jw425105@ameritech.net>
Lith, Ill. USA - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 13:48:36 (EST)
steve very impessive good job.hope to see you for the holidays.
love debbie ps.love the pictures
debbie deluca <fagiano42@aol.com>
chicago, USA - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 13:48:14 (EST)
Steve - this is a great website to show off your talents. Ready
for another great 2003 season with the "Big Blue". the bear
Doug "pooh bear" Kenyon <doug@coreyeng.com>
Aurora, CO USA - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 12:09:24 (EST)
Congratulations Steve on the launching of your website. It's a
joy to know your have followed your dreams and been so successful. Best of
luck with keeping up the demand your site generates. Drummers that
purchase your video will share your excitement and dicipline and move
their drumming careers forward. Thanks for sharing your talents!
Linda Swierczek <lfs828@aol.com>
Eagan, MN USA - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 10:34:02 (EST)
Although I'm not a drummer, I can appreciate good drumming. It
was GREAT hearing REAL drum solos with REAL rudiments and an actual drum
corps BEAT . . . and not drowned out by the pit. Go Royal Airs. Good luck
with the video.
Bruce Borck <brubear@aol.com>
Schaumburg, IL USA - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 08:56:35 (EST)
Nice site Steve. Best of luck to you. See you next month. Terry
Terry Doran <JetPi9949@aol.com>
McHenry, Il USA - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 08:45:50 (EST)
Steve: Great site! Looking forward to another fanastic season
with the "Big Blue" in 2003. Dave Scott Royal-Airs Soprano Section
Dave Scott <scottdw02@hotmail.com>
St Louis, MO USA - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 08:42:01 (EST)
Nice site Steve. Very clean and informative. Good luck, see you
in 2003. GO GO BIG BLUE Pat
Pat Patterson <gumdrop4@aol.com>
Muskego, WI USA - Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 00:43:13 (EST)
Great site. Good luck. Joanne
Joanne Borck <brubear@aol.com>
Schaumburg, IL USA - Wednesday, November 06, 2002 at 22:52:56 (EST)
Steve, Great to see you up on the Net and sharing what made you a
champion! All drummers will find this a great help.
Serge Uccetta <sergeu@aol.com>
Inverneww, IL USA - Wednesday, November 06, 2002 at 21:45:35 (EST)
What a "Terrific" job. Love the wonderful collection of pictures.
Brought back memories. Best of Luck to you Steve! God Bless
Bonnie Baker <bbaker2000@mindspring.com>
Acworth, GA USA - Wednesday, November 06, 2002 at 21:35:47 (EST)
Steve, Great looking web-site. I purchased your video last summer
and found it to be extremely helpful. It was great marching with you this
last summer. Good luck to you and The Royal Airs in 2003.
Bill Buck <VANGUARD@KEYNET.NET>
Kankakee, IL. USA - Wednesday, November 06, 2002 at 21:30:39 (EST)
You're drumming is very impressive....keep it up
Judy Steinohrt <jrspril@aol.com>
Park Ridge, IL USA - Wednesday, November 06, 2002 at 21:23:47 (EST)
Great web, site, great talent, great instructor
George Goyette <gag1017@aol.com>
Naperville, IL 60540 - Wednesday, November 06, 2002 at 20:25:13 (EST)
Steve - What a terrific-looking web site. Congratulations on a
job well done. P.S. My nephew (the drummer) loved the video. When are you
going to make another one??
Kathleen
Chicago, IL USA - Wednesday, November 06, 2002 at 19:26:32 (EST)
Steve, kuddos on this great site and the excellent video. Can't
wait for the next video.
Jim Kemnitz <jimc.kemnitz@energizer.com>
sycamore, Il USA - Wednesday, November 06, 2002 at 13:26:22 (EST)
Way Too Much steve.... This is really GREAT! You always do A
Class Act! Keep up the Good work from the the rangers to the reunion....
LaBarbera <j.labarbera@attbi.com>
westchester, Il USA - Wednesday, November 06, 2002 at 13:03:01 (EST)
Go Bears Neph!
John Fagiano
USA - Wednesday, November 06, 2002 at 00:44:58 (EST)
What a fabulous site!!! Glad to have met up with you again to
find that "little Fudgie" is still a great drummer!! Keep smiling!
Vicki <Vckster7@aol.com>
Chicago, IL USA - Tuesday, November 05, 2002 at 23:26:24 (EST)
Steve - Great Website - Great Drummer!
Dorothy Heitman <dorothyrae@aol.com>
Schaumburg, IL USA - Tuesday, November 05, 2002 at 21:54:47 (EST)
Well Done, cuz! More pictures, please. BF
Billy F
Chicago, IL USA - Tuesday, November 05, 2002 at 19:13:48 (EST)
STEVE,GREAT WEB SITE!!!GLAD I HAD THE CHANCE TO HOOK WITH YOU AND
THE OTHER NEIGHBORHOOD GUYS&GALS; TO BE A ROYALAIR. LOOKING FORWARD TO
DOING IT AGAIN IN 2003---JOE
JOE BOYLE <JPWBOYLE1@AOL.COM>
CHICAGO, ILL USA - Tuesday, November 05, 2002 at 18:34:51 (EST)
Fagiano goes high tech! When are you going to have audio clips on
your site to show people waht real drumming sounds like? Bill
Bill Schutters <BStock1063@aol.com>
Sylva, NC USA - Tuesday, November 05, 2002 at 15:32:52 (EST)
Hey, buddy! Good to see you doing so well. Keep it up, brother!
(P.S. I miss the football pool from the Grand...) Go Hawks & Go Avs!
Trevor Mariotti <tmariotti@hotmail.com>
Arvada, CO USA - Tuesday, November 05, 2002 at 15:17:28 (EST)
Very impressive!! Hope you get lots of new clients!
Judy Ryan <jryan@dgi-chicago.com>
Chicago, IL USA - Tuesday, November 05, 2002 at 15:13:50 (EST)
Way to go Steve-cool site-Semper Fi and Happy Birthday Marine- I
can say that-I marched with the Fudge in Washington DC USMC D & B
Corps-"still can't beat our chops"
Bill Gaeckle <BCGaeckle@aol.com>
Gambrills, MD USA - Tuesday, November 05, 2002 at 14:00:29 (EST)
Great site!
Jim Chappell <rlrr1963@netscape.net>
Saint Louis, MO USA - Tuesday, November 05, 2002 at 13:22:09 (EST)
Steve, The Best of Luck with this web site. Regards, Tom Walsh (
St. Kevin's Emerald Knights ) snare drummer.
Tom Walsh <thomas.walsh@axcelis.com>
Braintree, Ma USA - Tuesday, November 05, 2002 at 13:01:08 (EST)
Yeah.......... happy birthday [nov 10] jarhhead !!
thomas diprima <tdiprima@nmh.org>
USA - Tuesday, November 05, 2002 at 12:01:19 (EST)
