'The Multi-dexterity Project' was the culmination of two years of artistic research and the completion of a
Master of Arts (Music Performance) degree at Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.
The aim of the project was to explore the possibilities of multi-dexterity
(an even performance ability across all four limbs) and how they might contribute to the
ongoing development of drum kit performance.
The main focus was on interchanging the roles of each limb across all limb combinations,
which created twenty-four possible permutations.
The jazz tradition was used as a framework, with the final outcome being a series of performed works each featuring
different combinations of limb permutations in an ensemble context.
To make the interchanging of roles possible, each limb was given the same four options: ride cymbal,
hi-hat, snare drum and bass drum, with each repeated element having a contrasting pitch or resonance.
This created twenty-four different sonic variations of the traditional roles of the limbs to choose
from during performance.
Check out Chris' YouTube channel
to view a selection of the performances.
Multi-dexterous Drum Kit Setup (2016)
Right Hand
20” Craig Lauritsen Custom Ride Cymbal
14” Zildjian K Hi-Hats
10”x5.5” Gretsch Catalina Maple Snare Drum
20”x16” Sleishman Pro Series Bass Drum
Left Hand
19” Craig Lauritsen Custom Ride Cymbal
15” Zildjian K Light Hi-Hats
12”x5” Gretsch Snare Drum
18”x14” Sleishman Pro Series Bass Drum
Right Foot
22” Craig Lauritsen Custom Ride Cymbal
12” Zildjian A Special Recording Hi-Hats
13”x6” Mapex MPX Series Snare Drum
16”x14” Sleishman Pro Series Bass Drum
Left Foot
21” Craig Lauritsen Custom Ride Cymbal
13” Zildjian K/Z Dyno Beat Hi-Hats
14”x6” Malmborg Custom Snare Drum
14”x12” Sleishman Pro Series Bass Drum
Click the image above to view the exegesis: Exploring Applications of Multi-dexterity in Drum Kit Performance.
