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NAMM Reflections: Humility, Craft, and the Future of Percussion

NAMM Reflections: Humility, Craft, and the Future of Percussion

For years, Bryan Bedson, Bryan Saftler, and I have wrestled with defining who we are and what we stand for. That process hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth it. Identity isn’t something you arrive at—it’s something you build, shaped by mentors, effort, and the willingness to be stretched. Drummers are no different.

 At NAMM this year, I sat with some of the world’s best artists gathered around a table, literally drumming with their hands on the table, learning a new rhythm. Growth requires humility—the courage to be a beginner, even after you’ve made it.

Investing in the Future of Drumming:

This year, I gave away two snare drums: one to an 11-year-old, another to a 15-year-old. These weren’t just giveaways. The 15-year-old, in particular, had a passion and drive I couldn’t ignore. He reminded me what this industry is really about: curiosity, effort, and growth. I’m not interested in working with artists chasing free gear or accolades. I want to support those who respect the craft, stay humble, and push themselves.

That’s the future of percussion: honoring tradition while staying obsessed with what’s next.

Honoring the Past, Building the Future:

 Percussion evolves by walking a fine line—balancing respect for its roots with bold innovation. The best drummers honor the past but don’t live in it. They use it as a foundation to create something new. That’s the kind of artist I want Dialtune to support, and that’s the kind of tools we strive to create—tools that make drumming more fun, expressive, and accessible.

A Call for Humility and Growth:

NAMM 2025 reminded me why we started Dialtune. It’s not about selling drums—it’s about building a community that values humility, work, and growth. Drumming isn’t just a skill. It’s part of your identity, and like anything worth building, it takes time, mentorship, and effort.

At Dialtune, we’ll continue to stand for that.

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