We are delighted to be able to offer a workshop covering the fundamentals of ‘Funk and Groove’ from two of the industry’s leading artists.

The Grainger Brothers’ talent and prowess in the world of music and rhythm are unparalleled. Between the two of them, Gary Grainger on bass and Greg on drums have recorded or performed with the likes of Whitney Houston, Earth Wind & Fire, Lonnie Liston Smith, John Schofield, Maysa, Pure Soul, Mike Stern, Bill Evans, Robben Ford, Nancy Wilson, Dennis Chambers, George Duke, Eric Marienthal, Slim Man, Bill Evans and Nelson Rangell to name but a few, which in part explains why they are so damn good! Additionally, Gary created the seminal ‘Pick Hits Live’ and ‘In the Pocket’ video series with Dennis Chambers and together they created the iconic bass and drum grooves from the two albums, Blue Matter and Loud Jazz with John Schofield.

There’s a certain musical chemistry that develops between great musicians who play together all the time. The Graingers have been playing together all their lives, and the chemistry they have developed is simply astounding.

This is why the Grainger brothers have become one of the most sought after and respected rhythm sections in the world. Growing up in a musical family in Baltimore, MD they have been collaborating and playing together for over four decades, as well as lending their musical talents to numerous world class musicians and building a reputation as the best of the best among both fans and fellow musicians.

Their live shows are spectacular, appealing to both audiences who just want to dance the night away and those who appreciate the incredible musicality of the groups they play in.

As well as lending their talents to other people’s projects as session musicians, they have also released two highly acclaimed albums, Phase I and Phase II, featuring their signature sound of tight grooves, funky licks and catchy melodies. Following the release of Phase I and Phase II, Grainger has just released Phase III on GBM Records to critical acclaim. The album features guest appearances by Kim Waters and Grammy nominated Jazz pianist Jim Beard, as well as the radio hits “You Never” and “Watch Me Now”.

The purpose of their workshop is to demonstrate the key elements of playing together as a rhythm section, with a key focus on the lock between the drummer and bassists. They will demonstrate their approach to different time signatures and various grooves will be demonstrated and explained.

Greg and Gary will both explain and discuss the importance of their respective instruments and the role they play in music performance. They will explain in detail how they approach their music and look at the key role and significance of listening to and interacting with other musicians in a group setting.

They will also talk about their individual instruments, give a brief history, and explain why they use the brands they currently use.

Greg and Gary will then play various songs and have a question-and-answer session with audience members in what is guaranteed to be a lively and entertaining class with two of the US’s most respected performers.