Round Rock Drums

Happy drumming… :)

Our Round Rock Drums’ BASH is coming!

Saturday - January 9, 2027.

We are now accepting volunteers for the show.

All volunteers will receive 1 extra ticket to the show. - and you get to select your seats before everyone else!

Here are the positions:

1. CLEAN-UP DETAIL (X8 SPOTS) - These volunteers will help to organize helpers at the end of the show to ensure the venue is left in great condition after the show (pick up trash, put away items, take trash to dumpster, etc…) Headed by Mark Walters.

2. SET-UP DETAIL (X3 SPOTS) - These volunteers will help to organize stuff for performances, and pre-show configurations - headed by Mark Walters. This will begin promptly at 11:00 AM.

3. THREE DRUM-KITS (Obviously 3 SPOTS lol) - Mr Ed will be asking 3 specific families for this part (stay tuned - it could be you). You will need to be at the show location NLT 11:00 AM.

4. DOOR MONITORS (X2 SPOTS) - These volunteers will remain by the entrance to the performance area handing out programs and ensuring people enter the performance area only at the appropriate time (WITH A TICKET). This position begins promptly at 1:30 pm until all attendees enter the show area (2:30 +/- pm).

5. STUDENT MONITORS (X2 SPOTS) - These volunteers will ensure students are monitored while warm-ups and rehearsals are happening prior to show time. The kids will be seated in the audience area, and drumsticks will not be in their hands (LOL). This will include helping the Student Organizer as they begin setting kids up for the show. This position begins promptly at 12:00 PM and ends at 1:30 PM.

6. STUDENT ORGANIZER (X2 SPOTS) - These volunteers will place all students into show order, keep students responsible while waiting for their turn to play, and prompt each student prior to their performance. Students will be kept in the back of the stage area, and should remain focused so as to allow for the show to run smoothly. This position promptly begins at 1:30 PM. They will also be hanging out with all the students backstage.

7. We are also seeking someone dedicated to TAKE PICTURES (X2 SPOTS) as well (up close and personal). You will be expected to go onto the stage during the performances. Let us know if you are interested. This position promptly begins at 12:00 PM.

Please contact us to communicate which one you would like to fill. And we will organize those selected.

Remember: Our show is on Saturday, January 9, 2027.

Location: Penfold Theatre Co. 2120 N Mays, Round Rock, TX 78664

Happy drumming…. :)

Mr Ed

We're beginning to set things up for our BASH (winter show):

Happy drumming... :)

DUET PREP (with an 8-year-old) This video is created to inspire & enhance the learning experience ...

Stay tuned - and happy drumming… :)

Happy drumming... :)

The Joy of Drumming

Thoughts inspired by Bob Ross - written by Ed Francis

I’m a drummer & teacher who loves to “yell” thoughtfully at my students. :)

At the beginning of each lesson, I try to get to know my students better by asking them random questions about themselves, their week, and much of the time the focus ends up being on the topic of food (I especially enjoy hearing about their favorite desserts).

While in the studio I found myself having a spirited discussion with one of my students about the painter Bob Ross.

I was genuinely surprised to learn this 15-year-old student was aware of Bob Ross’s show “The Joy of Painting” as it played regularly on TV when I was a teenager back in the 80’s – twenty-five years before this young man was even born.

The first thing my student blurted out was “happy accidents!”

His comment inspired a way-too-long comparison of painting on canvas with creating rhythms on a kit. We talked about how creativity often happens by accident, and it’s up to us as musicians to recognize the potential usefulness of a “drumming mistake”. And the idea of intentionally and tastefully implementing these newly found nuggets in future musical adventures also came to mind.

I can vividly recall being a teen observing as Bob Ross unintentionally dripped a blob of paint onto his canvas, only to turn it into an interesting rock, another distinct tree, or some other beautiful form of nature. And best of all he made these changes appear so effortless!

“We don’t make mistakes, just happy little accidents.” – Bob Ross

I’ll sometimes have parents ask about the drumming potential of their child(ren).

In my experience, there seems to be two general categories of students: those who begin playing already possessing an easiness with their understanding and application of drumming concepts (this was not me when I started), and those who seek to gain an understanding of drumming through persistence and tenacity (I definitely fell into this latter category).

Both types of potential can produce rhythmic talent. Wherever one may land on this spectrum, the most important ingredients needed when learning to play include being dedicated to practicing; having a willingness to persevere when things get difficult, and have the age-old concept of determination.

Our talents are something requiring constant renewal and continual blossoming.

It’s only when we stop doing/learning when our talent becomes stagnant.

“Talent is a pursued interest. Anything that you are willing to practice, you can do.” – Bob Ross

On occasion, a student will ask if I have a favorite drum. I usually answer how there are many “favorites,” each one for a different reason. One may posses the attack I like, another might produce a tone which makes me smile inside while playing.

I’ve often expressed how I feel much more relaxed in front of a group of people while sitting behind my drums. There’s something comforting about the familiarity of drums and cymbals around me. These loud instruments provide me a sense of safety & a peaceful feeling inside.

And in a way, these percussion instruments become my friends. Though does one really ever beat on their friends? LOL

“There’s nothing wrong with having a tree as a friend.” – Bob Ross

It goes without saying (but I’ll say it anyway)…drummers can be a bit eccentric.

The configurations and ways we set up our drum kits are as different and unique as each of us playing the drums. We can flail around in strange and unusual ways while playing. Our bodies, minds, and hearts are in sync as we effectively produce a flow-full foundation – and contort our faces to the point where people watching us seriously wonder if we’re OK.

“I guess I’m a little weird.” – Bob Ross

It’s rewarding to witness students becoming confident in their playing. Especially when they get to the point of being capable of expressing themselves through their drumming.

The intense smiles on their faces and the happiness following a great performance brings me great joy. These are some of the delightful things I get to experience as a teacher. It’s gratifying for both the student and myself as well.

“I can’t think of anything more rewarding than being able to express yourself to others through painting.” – Bob Ross

During lessons, I will sometimes ask my students to just go CRAZY on the drums!

And the best part is I get to join in on all the fun.

I believe this is a place where wonderful exploration can happen while learning the drums. When we just let ourselves go “out there” and experience something not planned – and build on it – our confidence grows and creativity can flourish.

These “crazy” moments allow us to tap into a part of ourselves (and our drumming) we might not otherwise come to know.

“Let’s go crazy.” – Bob Ross

The act of drumming and painting seem to have many things in common. It wasn’t until my student brought up Bob Ross and his painting that I made this connection - and I’m glad he did (thanks, Evan).

Happy drumming,
Mr. Ed
Round Rock Drums

Our June 2026 Newsletter.

Visit our website for more information.

Happy drumming... :)