This is a pretty big marimba group! I can't imagine anything like this today with young students! - Tony Miceli

I'm sure someone out there has done some research on classic vibraphones, maybe even with some pictures. I kind of know the basic history of the instrument (actually Wikipedia has a surprisingly thorough vibraphone history...I would love to know who posted it). But, in particular, there are some legendary vibraphone designs that I have always been curious about. One was known as the Deagan Imperial. Milt Jackson played the Imperial for many years, the first half of his career.

im a true believe that the more the student practices ii V I progression and is able to recognize the progression on the fly, this will enable the player to play in most situations. Many times at jam session ive not known the head or did but not not well enough to play with the other players. so ill lay back and listen the the the form first, then the key, and then listen for turnarounds or odd changes, accidentals ect. once i have an idea where it is going ill dive in.

this play along is a cycle i use when practicing the ii V I progression ...

Joe's video from his Birthday get together with Dana.

A mallet ensemble Gary played with as a child. Really a great photo. I wonder how many of them went on to be mallet players? - Tony Miceli

Here's the Burton grip and the Gary at age 8. What's amazing is if you read his story about how he thought about his grip, well that's cool enough. However, he thought about this all at age 8. Now that's brain power. -Tony Miceli

Oh no! Not more Giant Steps! Thought I would test drive the new video system with this link from You Tube. Peace, Steve

Found this on the net. - Tony Miceli

Here's the proof. Gary opened up for Cream.

I remember someone telling me (way back in the day) that he really wasn't a hippie but grew his hair long so he'd get gigs!! If it's not true it's pretty funny and if it is true it's pretty smart I think. Anyway he's right here on the site so maybe Gary you can tell us, TRUE or FALSE.

It's interesting that he WAS on this circuit because I think to crossover like that is a real testimony to your music, especially back then. IMHO!

PS, Tom Beckham sent me the images!

I may not be the greatest expert on the biography of Claire Musser, founder of the company that bears his name and that dominates in the mallet instrument field. However, I have played Musser instruments since I was six years old (this is my 60th year playing Musser!), and I did have a few encounters with this colorful character, an individual who was largely responsible for increasing mallet instrument visibility in the early years.