While browsing the MasterClass.com website – a multi-faceted, extremely well-mounted resource, by the way – I was happy to find a session featuring one of the coolest human beings on the planet, former Beatles drummer, Ringo Starr. Over the course of 109 minutes during which he demonstrated his expertise, I was amazed at how often his insights were applicable to the world of the cinematographer. They boil down to the following:
Keep it simple! You don’t need a huge kit to maintain the beat.
(don’t over-complicate your technology)
Find what suits you best and stick with it.
(don’t imitate…innovate; define your own taste and keep the courage of your convictions)
Don’t be afraid to commit fully, even though you might not know where you’re headed.
(be bold in what you’re doing and have faith in the process)
Always be ready to play.
(prepare well and be present in the moment)
Engage well with others.
(give your collaborators their due)
Enjoy what you’re doing. The good vibes can’t help but come across in the work.
(I think we all knew that already!)
Ringo built an extraordinary career by following these tenets. Of course, it didn’t hurt that he had John, Paul and George to spur him on in the beginning. But nothing he speaks of is beyond anyone’s reach. Give them some consideration…you’ll never know what might happen!
He once said he played “less than Charley”, which is a major compliment to both drummers….the two great masters of the minimal.