In this clip from www.artistshousemusic.org - Drummer and professor of Percussion Dafnis Prieto continues his master class in Latin rhythms and percussion with a response to an audience question about developing stylistic range whether its possible to be, for example, both a great bop drummer and Latin percussionist.
In truly innovating music based on traditional rhythms, forms, feels, etc., it is very important to steep oneself in them before assuming you have it down and can just start adding your ideas and flavors.
Dafnis is a prime example of highly respecting what came before and then adding his ideas or creating very original ones that may or may not be informed (but usually are) by tradition be it Cuban or what have you.
TiqueO6 2 years ago
Being progressive is always the way to go, push boundaries. There is no downside to learning all styles of music, it will only help you develop as a musician and help you find your own style. I agree with pretty much everything he said.
redhotpearl1 2 years ago 5