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Danny Seraphine
Ex-Chicago drummer Danny Seraphine plays
in a style that, ironically perhaps, can best be described as lyrical.
"To be a good drummer," he explains, "one must develop his own
technique. Good timing and good taste is essential, but it is the
technique that sets the truly great drummers apart from the rest."
Born on August 28, 1948 and raised in
Chicago, Danny began playing at the age of nine after watching his
uncle, who was a drummer, play at family gatherings. By the time he was
twelve, he was playing in a variety of rock bands and, when he was
fifteen, he met Walt Parazaider and Terry Kath at an audition for a
group called the Executives.
While studying percussion at DePaul
University with Bob Tilles, a well-known percussion genius, Seraphine
came into contact with several of the musicians who would later comprise
the Missing Links, the forerunner of Chicago. After leaving DePaul, he
continued with further study under Chuck Flores, who had played with
Maynard Ferguson and Woody Herman. "I like to study music even now, " he
explains. "It keeps me going and causes me to progress."
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Danny's influences are as diverse as his
style. They include Buddy Rich, Tony Williams, Mitch Mitchell, Elvin
Jones and Grady Tate. However, he points out, "I still try to maintain
my own direction. I have learned that the great musicians have mastered
a variety of musical forms in order for them to have a complete
understanding of music itself."
Seraphine feels that ego, when in proper
balance, helps a performer to communicate. "It gives you more
confidence, helping you to perform with grace and ease while
simultaneously making you more daring and brave. Therefore, you can
relax and create a freer music without it sounding strained. " Danny
co-wrote the hit, "Lowdown," with Peter Cetera.
Danny believes that Chicago's most
significant contribution may be in its inspiration to others. He is
hopeful that Chicago will inspire other musicians to be aware of the
possibilities available through the use of imagination and open minds
toward forms of music other than their own.
2006:
Comeback to the scene with CTA California Transit Authority
and great appearance at the ModernDrummer Festival 2006
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