My name is Patrick Sanders, and I began my studies in drumming somewhere around 1989. My musical roots are nothing out of the ordinary. Growing up in Illinois, I went through the standard school band programs, I was in a prog rock garage band—blah, blah... I was very fortunate, however, to study privately for over five years with Frank Hensler, whom I accredit with teaching me volumes on the fundamental nuances in the art of drumming. I went from treating drumming as a hobby to developing my art through constant practice and the guidance of Frank.
I decided, though, to put my drumming on hold and follow a childhood dream, entering the Marine Corps in July of ’97 and spending the next two years and some change in the infantry. It was there that my desire to pursue music professionally (and get the hell out of the mud!) was solidified. I subsequently auditioned for the Commandant’s Own, United States Marine Drum & Bugle Corps.
With absolutely no prior marching or drum corps experience, I practiced my tail off and marched as a member of the bass line in 2000, performing in hundreds of shows all over the country (including DCI Championships), and an overseas tour of Italy, Kuwait, Oman, and Germany. Although my back disagrees, I unfortunately had to give up bottom bass as I neared the end of my contract. s a “short-timer,” I was forced to play cymbals so as not to disturb the integrity of the bass line with my departure. While everyone else was rehearsing their parts, I made the most of my time by getting my application to Berklee College of Music ready and studying from as many drum set books as I could get my hands on. I jubilantly separated from the Marine Corps July 8, 2001.
I moved back home to Illinois for a year to practice, study music theory, and work at The Drum Pad —bar-none the best drum shop in the country. Believe me, I’ve been all over. Denounce corporate music stores and give your business to the Drum Pad!
I now live in the Boston area and am finishing up degrees in Performance and Music Business at Berklee College of Music. I am an intern at Grover Pro Percussion. In addition to recitals and sessions and such, I’m currently writing and performing with Next Move, De Fenestra, and A Shade of Difference.
