Learn to Play!: Drums

Divided into five components--DVD, CD-ROM, CD, booklet, and web access--this teen-hosted multimedia drum instruction program, aimed primarily at young adults, kicks off with a DVD introduction to the basics (buying and setting up gear, playing technique, etc.), while also providing an interactive “virtual jam session” that allows viewers to practice their skills with a real band playing in various musical styles, such as blues, country, funk, jazz, rock, and r&b. The PC- and Mac-compatible CD-ROM supplies additional advice and practice, as well as a primer on music theory; the audio CD and the instruction booklet comprise the “take it anywhere” component of the kit; and the JustEnough website offers free online lessons and community chat. Underneath the DVD's showy presentation (short segments with flashy graphics) lies solid advice and instruction, from choosing the right equipment and finding a good drum teacher to emphases on plenty of practice and having fun. Perhaps the only disadvantage of the program is the fact that it is multimedia (besides the expense factor in owning all of the media equipment--and switching between them--the CD-ROM requires viewers to have QuickTime on their systems). Sure to be popular with the target audience, this is recommended. [Note: also available at the same price from the Learn to Play! series: Bass, Guitar, and Vocals.] Aud. J, H, C, P. (S. Fisher)