Donald Marple is the new Guitar Center Drum-Off Grand Champion. He won the title this past Saturday in Hollywood, California. Playing in front of a packed Music Box @ Fonda, 20 year old Donnie proved he had the skills to be USA\'s greatest undiscovered drummer.Commented Marple:
\"I am so in awe, this has been such a wonderful experience and I am thankful for the opportunity that Guitar Center has provided me. I have met new friends, my idols and this has changed me as a person. It has opened my eyes to a whole new world of drumming. I have no idea where this contest will take me now, but I do know that I want to play the drums for the rest of my life.\"
Born and raised in Keyser, WV, 20 year old Donald began playing the drums at the age of three at his former church Elk Garden Assembly of God. A high school percussion instructor by day, Donald perfects his talents on the drums in a local Christian rock band called High Pressure. Having never had a drum lesson in his life, Donald\'s practicing and persistence has paid off with him being crowned Guitar Center\'s Drum-Off Grand Champion.
Previous Drum-Off winners have gone on to enjoy successful music careers, record albums and tour the world with noteworthy artists. Drum-Off Champion 2002, Cora Coleman-Dunham, is currently performing with legendary recording artist Prince. Eric Moore II, Drum-Off 2003 Champion, has also achieved notoriety by performing with psychedelic funk band Sly and the Family Stone as well as singer Bobby Brown.
Partners for Drum-Off 2007 include: DW, Evans, Gretsch, Modern Drummer, Remo, Pearl, Pro-Mark, Roland, Sabian, Tama, Vic Firth and Zildjian.
