I record and tour with Al, primarily North America with occasional ventures to OZ. We did 4 dates in the UK and a gig in Amsterdam a few years ago, but I think the Int'l options will expand for us in 2015 (there's nothing like a #1 album to grab people's attention!)

I also play and sub in several bands in L.A., which brings in the usual few dollars between tours, but mostly serves to satisfy my love to drum.

And I collect, but have become more selective in the last several years about acquisitions. An item has to either be particularly collectible, or usable. I try not to get things just to have them, unless they come at a price that I can't refuse. There have been some drums and cymbals that were gifts, and I cherish those most of all.

Bermuda

I'm a weekend warrior, occasionally playing bigger gigs like at Sunset Station, Sunken Gardens and the River Parade in San Antonio. I hope to keep playing and gigging until I can't hold sticks anymore, a lot of my friends I use to play with have retired from gigging. Sometimes, while loading and unloading, I wonder, why do I still do this, then it hits me, oh ya, I love playing music.

As far as collecting goes, I've never been a big gear guy, there have been times where I've owned several kits and snares at one time, but I can't have drums just lying around and not being used, so I'd sell them. Besides, living in a one bedroom condo with my wife and Chihuahua, doesn't leave much room for drums.LoLoLoLo

Since my gigs usually result in some folding cash, I am a professional by the dictionary definition. But it's not like I do this to support myself. It's simply for the fun of playing music—and getting positive reinforcement from the dance floor as opposed to doing it at home. The extra money is nice, but I'll haul drums anytime for the right situation.

I'm a minor Slingerland collector (four kits), but it all gets used.

Al

My "gigging for $$" days are pretty much done! Now, I collect way too many snare drums and kits. At least most of the snare drums and 2 kits at any given time are on display at my girlfriend's house, where I can play and try to keep what "chops" I have left from turning to mush! My girlfriend is my BIGGEST supporter!

-Mark

I would love to see you guys do the Superbowl. The last ten years have been like so non entertaining. Except when Ozzy did the Patriots Superbowl.

Al would rule and set a new trend for halftime.

Play mostly for the love of it. Occassionally do a bar gig when asked with various bands. Collect because most were given to me or couldn't turn down a great deal.

Professional in the sense of getting a paid gig here and there... and professional as in showing up to those gigs on time (early), helping others load and unload their equipment if needed, and not drinking to excess during the gig! :)

My day job prevents me from playing weekends regularly so I opt out as a hired fill in for a few blues, classic rock, and country bands in my area. If was off on weekends I would find a regular gigging group to play with. I'm itching to find a classic r&b / soul / funk band to play with... I'd be in hog heaven!

Other than that, I pretty much play at home these days. A couple of Sundays a month I run down to the open mic jam at a little bar that's close to my house. That's how I started getting the paid fill in gigs!

I worked extensively pro & semi pro through the mid 60's, to late 80's.. Then odd fill ins and jams only through to mid 90's... Hung up the sticks mid 90's and was only "resurrected" a few years ago by some ex band buddies . Now gigging with a Roy Orbison cover show whenever the gigs come in.. Playing a show close to home this weekend and looking forward to it.. Not a song that I don't enjoy in this show. Big plus this week is being the first time my grandkids get to see "Poppy" on stage...

Cheers

John

I`ve been playing professionaly since 1970 non-stop(44yrs now-whew).I play locally these days in five different bands(all different styles)mostly corporate functions and private gigs..I teach drums at my home(34yrs,now) and don`t collect drums except for hanging onto my old gear since 1967.In summary my whole life has been music related and that`s all i`ve ever known or done.Don`t know how i`ve done it, but one day at a time seems to have worked for me.At 64 yrs of age i think i`ll have to see this thing through to the end...

Life`s Best,

Wayne

I just love this post and I hope it's a great night for all.