Caleb
Pickering
Professor of percussion, Texas A&M - Corpus Christi; Composer
I have been using Black Swamp Percussion accessories for my entire professional career. As a performer and educator, Black Swamp consistently makes instruments and products that have the level of quality and nuance required for performing as both a professional ensemble member and soloist. My students are able to play premiere level instruments with affordable price points, and get them from a company that truly has a passion for educating the next generation of percussionists.
Caleb's Percussion Pick
My 25th anniversary Tambourine is literally the best concert tambourine I have ever used. the wide timbral spectrum, weight, and clarity I get from the instrument is second to none. It is my "go-to" tambourine for every gig or solo performance.
Artist Q&A
What is the oldest BSP instrument you own? What was your first?
My TD1. It was my first concert tambourine I ever purchased.
What does your typical practice routine look like? Do you have a favorite place to practice?
Going into a practice with a game plan of what I will work on and aim to accomplish. Short warmup to keep my hands healthy, then dive straight into the music.
What is your favorite practice technique? Anything creative or out of the ordinary?
Breaking up rhythms/pitch content to vary the music and hear it in "wrong" ways, strengthening my understanding of what is "correct."
Adding non-musical variables to run-throughs of solo works: different lighting, clothes, audiences, environments, etc.
What is your favorite performance memory?
Such a good reception of a solo performance in Taiwan they clapped for an encore, and then a second encore after that!
What inspires your creativity?
Everything. "Breathe in; Breathe out". I find inspiration in lots of places. Music, other arts, film, world events, nature. As long as I'm taking in art, I'm able to put out art.