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Podcast #86 - Nate Patten Dec 23, 2024

Show notes

In this special episode of Broadway Drumming 101, we step out of the drum chair and into the conductor’s podium with Nate Patten, a celebrated music director, writer, and comedian based in New York City.

With a resume spanning eight Broadway shows—including Company, The Prom, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and Catch Me If You Can—Nate brings a wealth of knowledge and humor to our discussion.

Currently conducting Elf, the holiday musical lighting up Broadway through January 7, 2024, Nate shares the secrets of his success, from networking and building genuine relationships to fostering curiosity and taking unconventional opportunities.

Whether you're a drummer, a percussionist, or any musician looking to understand the dynamics of working with a music director, this episode offers invaluable insights.

What You’ll Learn:

* How Nate got his start in musical theater and built his career.

* Why the chemistry between musicians in a pit is just as important as their talent.

* The critical role drummers play in maintaining the pulse of a Broadway production.

* Nate’s unique approach to giving feedback and fostering artistry in the pit.

* Tales from the rehearsal room with Broadway legends like Marc Shaiman, Scott Wittman, and Kristin Chenoweth.

🔥 Why Listen? This episode takes you behind the curtain to explore the often-overlooked relationship between drummers and music directors. Nate’s thoughtful advice and hilarious anecdotes make this an unmissable conversation for anyone passionate about Broadway.

Don’t Miss Out! Subscribe to Broadway Drumming 101 on your favorite podcast platform and share this episode with a friend who loves musical theater.

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Resources & Links:

* Follow Nate Patten on social media for updates on his projects.

* Visit our YouTube Channel here at Broadway Drumming 101 for more episodes, resources, and exclusive content.

Download the Substack app to stay connected with Clayton Craddock’s latest insights and articles.

Nate Patten is a New York based director, music director, writer, and comedian. He is currently the director and co-writer with Brooke Shields of “Previously Owned by Brooke Shields” which opened to rave reviews in New York this fall.

As a Broadway music director and conductor he has conducted or played keyboard on 8 Broadway shows including most recently Company (with Patti Lupone), The Prom, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and Catch Me If You Can. He has also conducted at the Kennedy Center and Madison Square Garden as well as on many national tours.

Nate is the writer and host of a popular comedy podcast called Patten Disregard featuring interviews with Broadway celebrities. As a writer or music director, he has worked with Marc Shaiman, Scott Wittman, Jackie Hoffman, Jeremy Jordan, Brooke Shields and Kristin Chenoweth.

Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, an in-depth online platform offering specialized mentorship and a carefully curated collection of resources tailored for aspiring and professional musicians.

Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include tick, tick…BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill, Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball, and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. As a skilled sub, he’s contributed his talents to Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. He has also appeared on major shows, including The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Borle, Norm Lewis, Deniece Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.

Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com

Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

How Music Directors Choose Broadway Pit Musicians Dec 21, 2024

Show notes

Landing a gig in a Broadway pit is about more than just being talented or prepared—although that’s important, too. Music directors are looking for musicians who bring something unique to the table and can fit into the group's chemistry. It’s not just about being the best at your instrument; it’s about being the right fit for the team and the project.

In this video, we break down what music directors are looking for and how you can stand out—not just as a player but as a collaborator. If you’re serious about working on Broadway, this is the kind of insight you need.

Also, don’t miss the latest podcast episode featuring Nate Patten, the conductor of the new holiday musical Elf, now playing at the Marquis Theatre in Midtown!

Make sure to subscribe for more tips, behind-the-scenes knowledge, and interviews with the best on Broadway.

Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, Aquarian Drumheads, and Empire Ears in ear monitors.

Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com

Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

Taking Every Gig: Nate Patten’s Tips for Breaking into Broadway Dec 18, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Broadway Drumming 101, we’re shaking things up by bringing you a guest who offers a fresh and invaluable perspective from the other side of the orchestra pit. We’re thrilled to welcome Nate Patten—a seasoned New York-based music director, writer, and comedian. Nate has conducted or played keyboard for eight Broadway shows, including Company (starring Patti LuPone), The Prom, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and Catch Me If You Can. Currently, Nate is the conductor of Elf, the holiday musical now on Broadway. This production runs through January 7, 2024.

Nate talks about the mindset and approach that helped him succeed—like meeting people, fostering genuine curiosity, and saying yes to every opportunity, even the unconventional ones when starting out.

Whether you’re a drummer, a percussionist, or any musician looking to understand how to collaborate with music directors, Nate shares a goldmine of advice.

Nate has worked with some of the industry's biggest names in the business- Marc Shaiman, Scott Wittman, Jackie Hoffman, Brooke Shields, and Kristin Chenoweth, to name a few.

🔥 Why this episode is special: We’re not just focusing on drumming and percussion this time. With Nate, we’re expanding the conversation to explore how music directors think, work, and collaborate with musicians. It’s a rare peek behind the curtain and an opportunity to hear a different perspective that can enhance your understanding of the Broadway ecosystem.

Be sure to subscribe to Broadway Drumming 101 wherever you listen to podcasts so you don’t miss this incredible conversation. While you’re at it, share the podcast with a friend who’s passionate about musical theater.

Thanks for reading Broadway Drumming 101! This post is public so feel free to share it.

👂 Tune in, get inspired, and keep exploring the many facets of what it takes to succeed on Broadway.

Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

Spreading Good Cheer! Dec 14, 2024

Show notes

Know someone who’s passionate about drumming and loves the behind-the-scenes world of Broadway? Broadway Drumming 101 merch makes the perfect gift this holiday season! Whether it’s for yourself or the musician in your life, our gear is a great way to celebrate the art of drumming and theater.

Don’t wait to grab these unique items—head to our online store and check a few gifts off your list. Make this holiday one to remember! 🥁🎁

Use the code “2024” for a limited time only to get 50% off. Hurry, because this offer ends December 31st!

If you get a gift subscription by clicking below, you can get anything from the store for free! Pay for shipping and handling, and we’ll get it to you. Once you subscribe, we’ll send you the code to snag some free swag. Contact us here for any questions: info@broadwaydrumming101.com

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Podcast #85 - Ed Shea Dec 11, 2024

Show notes

Broadway Drumming 101 is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

In this episode, we’re honored to feature Ed Shea, a distinguished musician whose career spans from the Philadelphia soul scene to the stages of Broadway.

Highlights from the Episode:

* Early Musical Influences: Ed shares his initial fascination with music, sparked by the lively bands performing at his grandfather’s bar in Wildwood, New Jersey.

* Educational Journey: Attending North Catholic High School in Philadelphia, Ed was mentored by esteemed band director Tony Marchione, leading to his first theatrical experience with Do Re Mi.

* Mentorship and Development: The impact of Nick D’Amico, a leading Philadelphia show drummer, in honing Ed’s drumming skills and professional approach.

* Philadelphia Sound Era: Insights into recording at Sigma Sound Studios with legends like Gamble and Huff, contributing to the iconic “Philadelphia Sound” alongside artists such as the O’Jays and Teddy Pendergrass.

* Atlantic City Performances: Experiences from the peak of Atlantic City’s entertainment scene, including performances with luminaries like Sammy Davis Jr. and Tony Bennett.

* Broadway Transition: Ed’s move to New York City in the early ’90s, marking his Broadway debut and solidifying his reputation through tours like The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber.

* Sustaining Performance Excellence: Strategies for maintaining enthusiasm and precision in performances, and the camaraderie among Broadway musicians.

* Guidance for Aspiring Musicians: Practical advice on preparation, subbing, networking, and succeeding in the competitive Broadway environment.

* Adapting to Technological Advances: Navigating the integration of drum machines and evolving demands of contemporary drum compositions.

Memorable Anecdotes:

* Performing for Frank Sinatra at the Latin Casino at 25 and managing on-stage challenges.

* Bringing personal timpani to a Sigma Sound session, receiving support from producer Thom Bell.

* Mentoring emerging Broadway drummers, including Joe Nero, Taylor Simpson and Dan Berkery.

Ed reflects on his dynamic career, the music industry’s evolution, and the privilege of being part of Broadway’s vibrant community. He encourages perseverance, adaptability, and embracing the challenges of a musical career in New York City.

About Ed Shea

Ed Shea is a seasoned percussionist and drummer whose career began in the rich musical landscape of Philadelphia. A member of the American Federation of Musicians across multiple cities, including New York and Philadelphia, Ed has showcased his versatility across various platforms.

Broadway Contributions:

* Dream (1996)

* Peter Pan (1999–2000)

* Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me (2006)

* Newsies The Musical (2012–2014)

* Holiday Inn, The New Irving Berlin Musical (2016–2017)

He has also substituted in productions such as Cats, Phantom of the Opera, Grease, and Les Misérables.

Touring Experience:

* A Chorus Line (National Company, 1977; Japan Tour, 1986)

* Paul Anka East Coast Tour (1982)

* Debbie Reynolds Tour (1990)

* The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber (1991–1992)

* Jesus Christ Superstar (1994)

* South Pacific West Coast Tour (2002)

* Urinetown (2003–2004)

* Chicago (2006–2007)

Television Appearances:

* Miss America Pageant (1988–1991)

* Dick Clark’s Freedom Festival (1989)

* Merv Griffin's New Year's Eve (1990–1992)

* A&E’s Live by Request with Johnny Mathis (1997)

* PBS’s Wonderful, Wonderful with Johnny Mathis (2006)

Recording Collaborations:

Ed has recorded with labels such as Philadelphia International, Columbia, and Motown, working with artists including:

* Four Tops

* Spinners

* Temptations

* Patti LaBelle

* O'Jays

* Teddy Pendergrass

* Lou Rawls

* Stylistics

* James Ingram

* Deniece Williams

Film Contributions:

* The Fish That Saved Pittsburgh (1979)

* Staying Alive (1982)

* City Slickers (1991)

* Flirting with Disaster (1996)

Educational Background:

Ed studied at the Philadelphia Music Academy, graduating in 1972. He is also a professor of percussion at Seton Hall University, aiming to develop well-rounded percussionists and music educators.

🎧 Listen Now

Join us as Ed Shea shares his inspiring journey through the music industry. This episode offers valuable insights for musicians and enthusiasts alike.

Subscribe to Broadway Drumming 101 for more stories from master musicians like Ed!

Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, Aquarian Drumheads, and Empire Ears in ear monitors.

Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com

Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

Ed Shea - What It Was Like Working At Sigma Sound Recording Studios -The Motown of Philadelphia. Dec 08, 2024

Show notes

In this clip, legendary percussionist Ed Shea takes us back to his days at Sigma Sound Studios. Ed paints a vivid picture of the studio's bustling energy, where top-tier musicians like Bobby Eli and Tom Bell seamlessly crafted iconic records.

Ed shares insider details about what it was like working with legends like Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, recording albums for Lou Rawls, and navigating the laid-back yet precise atmosphere of Sigma. He talks about how the sessions were structured—three sessions a day, double scale pay, and often a relaxed schedule where creativity could flow uninterrupted.

He also offers a practical tip for musicians: always be prepared. He recounts how he kept a manuscript book handy to quickly jot down parts when Leon Huff or other producers needed overdubs on the fly. Ed's approach to adapting to each session's unique demands highlights the professionalism and versatility that have defined his remarkable career.

Ed also compares the relaxed recording environment to the high-pressure world of subbing on Broadway, giving you a glimpse into the different dynamics of studio and theater drumming.

Subscribe today for more and to be notified when new content is released:

Broadway Drumming 101 is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, Aquarian Drumheads, and Empire Ears in ear monitors.

Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com

Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

Podcast #84 - Mike Dobson Nov 25, 2024

Show notes

Mike Dobson is a drummer, percussionist, and Foley artist who has spent over 20 years bringing stories to life with his unique combination of live music and sound effects.

With degrees from The Hartt School (B.M.) and The New School (M.M.), Mike has the training and the creativity to tackle any project. He co-wrote the offbeat production Room 17B and has worked with top directors like Tina Landau.

Mike’s journey started behind the drum kit, but his passion for sound grew during his early days performing in circus and clown shows. That’s where he learned how sound effects can create humor and enhance storytelling, lessons he’s carried throughout his career.

One of his standout roles was as the live Foley artist for The SpongeBob Musical. I first met him there and was able to work with him when subbing for Damien Bassman. He continued that role in The SpongeBob Musical Live On Stage, proving that sound can bring just as much personality to a show as the actors on stage.

He’s the drummer and percussionist for the Broadway show Water for Elephants, based on the bestselling novel. In this production, Mike doesn’t just play drums—he helps create the world of a traveling circus during the Great Depression and uses traditional percussion, found objects, and custom instruments.

Water for Elephants runs through December 8, 2024, so go see it before it ends!

For more: https://www.mikedobsonmusic.com/home

Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, Aquarian Drumheads, and Empire Ears in ear monitors.

Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com

Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

What Is Foley? Nov 21, 2024

Show notes

In this clip, Mike Dobson breaks down what it’s like to be part of the small, elite group of drummers and percussionists on Broadway—and how his work is even more specialized. He combines live music and Foley artistry, creating sound effects in real-time for the stage, something very few people know how to do.

Mike shares his experience working in this super-niche field, reflecting on his nearly 20 years in New York, and talks about how Foley is typically taught in film and audio programs but rarely for live theater.

🎭 Water For Elephants closes December 8th, so don’t miss your chance to catch the show! Also, tune in to Mike’s full story on the podcast dropping on Monday, November 25th.

Check it out—you’ll learn a lot from this one!

Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, Aquarian Drumheads, and Empire Ears in ear monitors.

Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com

Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

BD101 Classic: Matt Vander Ende Nov 14, 2024

Show notes

In 2021, I started this podcast with a clear goal: to give you a behind-the-scenes look at the lives and careers of Broadway drummers. Since then, we've hosted some truly remarkable guests who've shared their unique stories, experiences, and insights.

As our audience has grown, we've realized that many of you might have missed out on some of our most inspiring interviews. So, over the next year, we’re bringing back some of those classic, condensed episodes. Whether it’s your first time hearing them or you’re revisiting them, I hope they spark the same sense of inspiration.

But don’t worry, that’s not all—we’ve got some fresh, exciting episodes in the works and a few surprises along the way. Stay tuned because there’s plenty more coming your way!

Thanks for reading Broadway Drumming 101! This post is public so feel free to share it.

In this podcast, we hear about the career of legendary drummer Matt Vander Ende, who shares his fascinating journey from the West Coast music scene to the bright lights of Broadway. Known for his dynamic playing style, Matt takes us through his transition from rock and metal drumming into musical theater, where he ultimately landed one of Broadway’s most demanding drumming roles in Wicked.

Throughout the interview, Matt reveals:

* His musical upbringing was in Oakland, California, and he had early classical training at the San Francisco Conservatory. he has a diverse performance background spanning from school jazz bands to heavy metal tours with his band, Defiance.

* How he developed his versatile style, drawing influence from drumming legends like Steve Gadd, Vinnie Colaiuta, and Metallica’s Lars Ulrich, blending classical chops with rock intensity.

* His unexpected path into musical theater, starting with a recommendation to try drumming in local theater productions—a choice that paved the way to his long-running career on Broadway.

Matt’s detailed look at his role as the drummer for Wicked is a highlight of the conversation. He describes the intense demands of this iconic show, which requires the drummer to seamlessly switch between musical genres, from reggae and punk-inspired beats to classical and traditional Broadway rhythms—all while leading a large 23-piece orchestra.

Matt shares:

* What makes Wicked such a challenging and unique show to play, including the precise, genre-hopping drumming style it requires to drive the music and choreography.

* His experience mastering complex segments like the intense “No Good Deed,” which he describes as “Bartok meets Metallica”—an exhilarating, intricate piece that demands both technical precision and a heavy rock feel.

* The importance of consistency in Wicked, with Matt highlighting his methods for keeping each performance fresh, despite the rigorous routine, and the ways he managed physical strain and injury during his tenure.

Matt also gives valuable advice to aspiring Broadway drummers on the importance of discipline, professionalism, and learning a wide variety of musical styles. He emphasizes the necessity of playing each performance exactly as the regular drummer does, especially for subs, and offers insights on building relationships and working as part of a close-knit Broadway team.

For Broadway fans, drummers, and musicians alike, this episode is packed with stories, lessons, and insights from Matt’s extraordinary journey. Don’t miss his reflections on the highs and challenges of playing one of Broadway’s most iconic shows!

Tune in for an unforgettable conversation with Matt Vander Ende on Broadway Drumming 101.

Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com

Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

Podcast #83 - Cubby O'Brien Nov 04, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Broadway Drumming 101, I enjoyed interviewing the legendary Cubby O'Brien. You may know him from his days as a Mouseketeer on The Mickey Mouse Club, but his drumming career goes way beyond that. We talk about his early start in music, following in the footsteps of his drummer father, and his work with some of the biggest names in the industry—Lawrence Welk, Bernadette Peters, the Carpenters, and more.

Cubby shares stories from his incredible journey through different eras of music, from the early influence of The Beatles and playing alongside icons like Steve Gadd. We dive into his Broadway experiences, where he brings his unique energy to every performance, and his thoughts on teaching and adapting to the ever-changing world of music. Whether you're a fan of musical history, a drummer, or just curious about what it takes to build a long-lasting career, this episode is packed with insights and memories you won’t want to miss.

Tune in to hear about his collaborations with legends like Shirley MacLaine and Nathan Lane and his work on Tony Award-winning shows—it’s a deep dive into a life well lived!

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:16 Chance Encounter on Broadway Cruise

00:57 Sports Talk: Cowboys and Dodgers

02:49 Cubby's Early Drumming Influences

04:48 The Mickey Mouse Club and Early Career

10:10 Transition to Studio Work and Variety Shows

15:18 Working with the Carpenters

18:43 Electronic Drums and Siegfried & Roy

21:08 Collaborations with Bernadette Peters

26:32 Learning the Drums: Insights from Jack Sperling

27:13 Meeting Susan Stroman and the Producers Journey

28:52 The Creative Process with Mel Brooks

29:47 Challenges of Repetition in Broadway Shows

31:30 Selecting Dependable Substitutes

34:44 Transitioning to Gypsy and Working with Marvin Laird

36:23 The Joy of Live Performances

39:00 Maintaining Longevity and Avoiding Injuries

42:41 Choosing Eugene, Oregon

44:03 Advice for Aspiring Musicians

44:38 Memories with Shirley MacLaine

47:01 Appreciation from Fellow Musicians

48:04 Preferences in Drum Kits

53:05 Top Five Favorite Drummers

54:27 Concluding Remarks and Future Plans

Carl "Cubby" O'Brien, born July 14, 1946, in Sun Valley, California, is an accomplished American drummer and former child actor, best known as one of the original Mouseketeers on The Mickey Mouse Club (1955–1958). Discovered by Disney talent scouts at a Screen Actors Guild benefit in 1954, Cubby became the youngest male to audition for the show, securing his spot after a simple yet memorable rendition of "Happy Birthday." After his time with Disney, Cubby pursued his true passion for drumming, performing with bands around Los Angeles, including a two-year stint with Spike Jones, which opened doors to major acts. He went on to work with legendary artists such as Ann-Margret, Shirley MacLaine, and Diana Ross, and spent ten years touring with The Carpenters after meeting them on The Carol Burnett Show.

Cubby’s prolific career extends to Broadway and television, with notable performances in productions such as West Side Story, Hair, The Producers, and Gypsy. He has also lent his drumming talents to movie soundtracks, including Grease, Change of Habit, and Gypsy. In addition to his extensive stage and screen credits, Cubby has played drums for Siegfried and Roy in Las Vegas and continues to perform in the Broadway production of Chicago. Throughout his career, he has worked with an array of stars, from Bernadette Peters to Steve Lawrence & Eydie Gorme, and remains a respected figure in the music industry. Cubby resides with his wife, a University of Oregon graduate who recently relocated from New York.

Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, a comprehensive online platform that provides specialized mentorship and a meticulously curated collection of resources.

Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include tick, tick...BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day At Emerson's Bar and Grill, and Ain't Too Proud - The Life And Times Of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. He has subbed for shows like Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, Spongebob Squarepants - The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. Clayton has appeared on The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Boyle, Norm Lewis, Denise Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.

Clayton is a proud endorser of Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

For more about Clayton Craddock, click here: www.claytoncraddock.com

Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

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