Game of Drum Thrones

About Game of Drum Thrones

Game of Drum Thrones is a drum podcast for beginners and early drummers. Hosted by Scott Cummings of OCDrumAcademy, each episode breaks down real beginner questions, concepts, practice habits, and mindset through honest conversations designed to make learning drums feel approachable to anyone. Come join us and you'll maybe be persuaded to begin your own drummer's journey! Learn more about lessons and programs at https://ocdrumacademy.com/ (https://ocdrumacademy.com/)

Publisher

Scott Cummings

Category

education · music

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

7 Feb 2026

Latest episode

10 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   10 Sept 2026

   Game of Drum Thrones Podcast - 17 - Special Guest: Ryan Shaw

   The conversation delves into Ryan Shaw's musical journey, from the genesis of his passion project 'Sessions with Shaw' to his influences, aspirations, and the development of new skills. It also explores his connections and recommendations, his transition to USC, and the navigation of the worlds of marching band and drum set. The discussion concludes with a focus on Ryan's musical journey and his future projects, including the creation of a sample pack for Bossa Nova drums. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the creation and sale of sample packs, building a brand, diversifying income, starting a YouTube channel, passive income, financial planning, influences and playing style, recording for Charlie Brown Peanuts specials, playing big band tracks, influences in pop drumming, playing in church, and learning opportunities. Ryan Shaw shares insights into his experiences and career, providing valuable lessons for aspiring musicians and content creators. Takeaways Passion projects can lead to new opportunities Building relationships and connections can open doors Exploring new skills and crafts can enhance creativity Diversifying Income Streams Building a Brand Chapters 00:00 The Genesis of Sessions with Shaw 02:13 The Influence of Jazz Casual and Rosemary Clooney Show 03:28 Inviting People into Your Orbit 04:05 Aspirations for Sessions with Shaw 05:17 Arranging and Orchestral Experience 07:02 Connections and Recommendations 18:37 Transition to USC and Musical Background 21:18 Navigating the Worlds of Marching Band and Drum Set 25:08 Musical Journey and Future Projects 29:28 Creating Sample Pack for Bossa Nova Drums 30:47 Creating and Selling Sample Packs 31:36 Building a Brand and Diversifying Income 34:09 Starting a YouTube Channel 35:18 Passive Income and Financial Planning 36:08 Influences and Playing Style 42:16 Recording for Charlie Brown Peanuts Specials 43:39 Playing Big Band Tracks 46:45 Influences in Pop Drumming 50:26 Playing in Church and Learning Opportunities

2. 

   16 Jul 2026

   Game of Drum Thrones Podcast - 16 - Special Guest: Kevin Winard

   Thanks for tuning into another Game of Drum Thrones Podcast episode #16! In this episode, we have a wonderful special guest, Kevin Winard! Kevin Winard is an internationally acclaimed drummer, percussionist, producer, educator, and writer whose career spans more than four decades. From touring with legends like Paul Anka, Sergio Mendes, Doc Severinsen, and Steve Tyrell to performing at venues such as the Montreux Jazz Festival, Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club, and Buckingham Palace, Kevin has built an extraordinary résumé across jazz, pop, Brazilian music, and beyond! In addition to his extensive recording career, he is a published author, producer, and vocalist. In this episode, Kevin shares stories from the road, insights from working with world-class artists, and the lessons he's learned from a lifetime dedicated to music! Please checkout Kevin Winard's website: @https://www.kevinwinard.com/ (https://www.kevinwinard.com/) As well as his new Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@KevinsBeatsnEats (https://www.youtube.com/@KevinsBeatsnEats)

3. 

   3 Jul 2026

   Game of Drum Thrones Podcast - 15 - Special Guest: Charles Ruggiero

   Thanks for tuning into another episode of the Game of Drum Thrones Podcast. In this episode, we have a Charles Ruggiero as a very special guest! Charles Ruggiero is a highly accomplished drummer, composer, bandleader, and educator whose career spans jazz, rock, pop, and session work. The son of renowned jazz musician Vinnie Ruggiero, Charles grew up surrounded by legends and later performed with artists including Chuck Mangione, Steve Gadd, Arturo Sandoval, Bob Reynolds, Rocco DeLuca, and members of SLUNT and Circus Diablo. Now based in Los Angeles, he continues to tour, record, teach, and release acclaimed albums as a bandleader, including his ninth record, Charles Ruggiero Plays MONK, Live! at the Baked Potato, released in April 2026. Check out more of Charles Ruggiero at https://ruggierodrums.com/ (https://ruggierodrums.com/), especially his newly released record Charles Ruggiero Plays MONK, Live! at The Baked Potato! Jimmy Carr Video referenced in the podcast; "Don't Be The Best, Be The Only" https://www.youtube.com/shorts/eWBgJCWf-pY (https://www.youtube.com/shorts/eWBgJCWf-pY)

4. 

   20 Jun 2026

   Game of Drum Thrones Podcast - 14

   In this episode, the conversation delves into the controversy of bass drum technique, highlighting the consequences of pushing the beater into the head, and the influence of YouTube on drumming techniques. They then explores the differences between heel up and heel down technique, emphasizing the advantages and coordination of each technique. Finally, it addresses common mistakes and tips for bass drum technique, focusing on the issue of foot sliding forward and the impact of footwear on bass drum technique. Thanks for tuning in and we hope to have you on the next episode!

5. 

   13 Jun 2026

   Game of Drum Thrones Podcast - 13 - Special Guest: Dean Koba

   In this episode of the Game of Drum Thrones Podcast, we have a special guest Dean Koba! Jazz drummer Dean Koba has been a fixture in Southern California for over 34 years, performing with acclaimed musicians including Tamir Hendelman, John Proulx, and Greg Reitan. He also spent 30 years performing Jazz at Disneyland and currently teaches jazz drumset at several Southern California colleges. Join us in this conversation where Dean talks about his experiences and provides thoughtful insights into his own drumming journey. You can reach out and learn more about Dean Koba @ http://deankoba.com/ (http://deankoba.com/) Thanks for joining in and we hope to see you next episode! Stay tuned for future episodes as we have more amazing guests joining in!

6. 

   6 Jun 2026

   Game of Drum Thrones Podcast - 12

   The conversation covers the role of a drummer in a band, the skills required for beginner drummers, the concept of 'in the pocket', and progressing beyond counting in drumming. It delves into the responsibilities of a drummer, setting the tempo and energy of the song, and the importance of maintaining consistency and repetition in drumming. Takeaways The drummer's role is to set the tempo and energy of the song Beginner drummers should focus on song form, transitions, and understanding the concept of 'in the pocket'

7. 

   30 May 2026

   Game of Drum Thrones Podcast - 11

   In this episode, the conversation revolves around beginner drumming struggles, grip techniques, and playing fast. The discussion covers the importance of relaxation, breathing, and practice in improving speed, as well as the different drumming grip techniques and their applications. Takeaways Relaxation and breathing are essential for playing fast on the drums. Different drumming grip techniques have specific applications and benefits for drummers.

8. 

   25 May 2026

   Game of Drum Thrones Podcast - 10

   The conversation delves into the fundamentals of music theory, exploring the Western notation system, time signatures, counting, and the impact of time signatures on drumming. It also discusses the importance of time signatures for drummers and their relevance in different musical genres. Takeaways Understanding the Western notation system and its application in music theory. The significance of time signatures and their impact on drumming and musical compositions.

9. 

   10 May 2026

   Game of Drum Thrones Podcast - 09

   Join us in today's episode of the Game of Drum Thrones Podcast! In this episode, Scott and Michael discuss the skills that differentiate a good drummer from a great one. Scott offers insights into how a drummer can improve their touch and dynamics on the kit to help a drummer create their own distinct sound. Thanks for joining us today and we hope to see you in the next episode!

10. 

    3 May 2026

    Game of Drum Thrones Podcast - 08

    Join us in today's episode of the Game of Drum Thrones Podcast! In this episode, we have a special guest, Aaron Chavez. Aaron is a percussionist teacher and drummer in the Orange County area. Throughout the conversation, Aaron talks about his experience during Cal Arts as well as his journey of making a career being a percussionist, sharing his insights on different instruments and percussion concepts. Thanks for tuning in and we hope to see you next time!

11. 

    25 Apr 2026

    Game of Drum Thrones Podcast - 07

    Join us in today's episode of the Game of Drum Thrones Podcast! In this episode, Scott and Michael discuss the concepts of "The Bear in the Room" and "The Bird Hold" and how a beginner can use these concepts to improve their drumming! Other concepts include choosing between e-kits and acoustic and how your drums affect your sound. Thanks for tuning in and we hope to see you next time!

12. 

    25 Apr 2026

    Game of Drum Thrones Podcast - 06

    Join us in today's episode of the Game of Drum Thrones Podcast where Scott and his guest, Michael, discuss the concepts of instinct, touch, and creativity to allow drummers to expand their sound on the kit. Scott provides insights on these concepts and how to properly improve on these "pillars" of drumming. Thanks for tuning in and we hope to see you next time!

13. 

    9 Apr 2026

    Game of Drum Thrones Podcast - 05

    In this podcast, we explore the influence of genre on learning and playing style, emphasizing the importance of fundamentals for beginners. Come on and join us and maybe you can too start your drumming journey! Thanks for listening and tune in for any future episodes of the Game of Drum Thrones Podcast

14. 

    30 Mar 2026

    Game of Drum Thrones Podcast - 04

    In this conversation, our hosts delves into the importance of consistent and quality practice, practicing away from the drums, starting slow, avoiding overly complex practice, the benefit of simple skills, and training your ears for drumming.

15. 

    21 Mar 2026

    Game of Drum Thrones Podcast - 03

    Thanks for tuning into this third episode of the Game of Drum Thrones Podcast. In this episode we delve into topics including: - the importance of discovering desire in drumming - the experience of latecomers to drumming, - Choosing acoustic or electric drums. Come join us if you're just starting out drumming or well into your journey! Stay tuned for future episodes! Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Desire in Drumming 07:18 Starting Drumming as an Adult 14:57 Choosing a Drum Kit 21:02 The First Drumming Lesson 29:06 Optimal Practice Duration

16. 

    21 Mar 2026

    Game of Drum Thrones Podcast - 02

    In this episode, Scott, along with his beginner student, Michael, talk about how Scott began his drummer journey and his experience at Cal Arts. The two also further talk about the benefits of having a drum teacher and discuss mistakes beginner drummers go through. Come join our chat and look out for future episodes! Unfortunately there were some technical difficulties and the recording was cut short, please forgive the abrupt ending

17. 

    7 Feb 2026

    Game of Drum Thrones Podcast - 01

    In this first episode of the Game of Drum Thrones Podcast, Scott Cummings, and his beginner student, Michael Pascua, explore the journey and struggles of beginner drummers and how to overcome them. Topics discussed include how to develop healthy habits, your mindset for practicing vs performing, and much more!

Contact Game of Drum Thrones

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.