We weren't able to finalise my set in our last rehearsal which is disappointing, but I know where I stand. After speaking to Annette, it became apparent that a grade 8 level piece would not be suitable for the programme, so that leaves me still with one piece to choose. I was hoping to use a piece that is a different style - more a jazz/funk fusion, and the piece I had in mind was a Rockschool piece meaning  it could easily be performed by just drums, bass and guitar. This is my biggest worry in this area as pieces in this style typically use quite varied instrumentation which could be hard to put together. Annette suggested using a piece with a track, if I can make it work in my programme. This opens me up to some new possibilities, as I know there are advanced fusion drummers such as Dave Weckl who have made backing tracks available for some of their pieces so this is something I will research.

In order to perform the pieces I have chosen effectively, it has been necessary for me to purchase a double bass drum pedal. It has been a while since I used one, and my experience then was quite limited so I have begun an intense course of practice to try and bring myself up to standard. The passages I require it for on the tracks are quite fast and requires some stamina so it's going to be tough to raise my level enough. I have started out with some basic exercises I have adapted from those I would use for my hand technique, including basic rudiments and endurance exercises. I aim to do some work with these every day in order to bring above the improvement necessary. I also intend to speak to my drum teacher and see if he has any advice he can give me on the matter.