Internationally known as a specialist in applying Afro-Caribbean rhythms to the drum set, Chuck Silverman developed a style of learning and performing on the drum set which will help you to develop command and control of the instrument. Chuck travelled all over the world teaching thousands of drummers not only about traditional Afro-Caribbean rhythms like Songo, Mambo, and Samba, but also sharing his ideas about developing a more creative approach to learning the drum set by using these rhythms as a rhythmic foundation.

Musicians Institute is deeply saddened to report that longtime Drum Program instructor Chuck Silverman passed away suddenly today from unknown causes. Further details are pending at this time. The entire MI family expresses its heartfelt condolences to the family, loved ones, friends, coworkers and students of Chuck.

Three of Chuck's books, Practical Applications 1, 2 and 3, have been named to Modern Drummer's (United States) all time best drum books. Chuck's educational video, also titled Practical Applications, outlines some of Chuck's teaching and playing methods.

He has written or been featured in many magazines worldwide including Talking Drums magazine, Modern Drummer, Slagwerkkrant (The Netherlands), Rhythm (UK), Batteur (France), Drums and Percussion (Germany), Sticks (Germany) and Percussioni (Italy).

Chuck Silverman was one of the first to come up with an online lessons website, silvermanlessons.com. The website features lessons in Hand Technique, Funk and R&B, Brazilian Drum Set, Cuban Drum Set, Latin Rudiments and Latin Funk Connection with excerpts from Chuck's DVD.

He has performed with Peter Ulrich, Armando Manzanero, Pages, Poncho Sanchez, Celia Cruz, Will Lee, Luis Conte, and many others.

Elaine Ocasio, although separated, still Chuck's wife, on Facebook:

"It is with deep sorrow that I report the death of Chuck Silverman, my husband of 10 years. We were separated for the last two years but remained close friends. I will always remember his passion for his drums."

The pictures with this article are taken during a Dutch three-day drum camp called the 'DrumDrieDaagse' on August 17, 2007. An annual event organized by drum magazine Slagwerkkrant and Cesar Zuiderwijk's Music Station.


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Chuck Silverman - The Latin Funk Connection DVD preview


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