This ends my post (130 Drummers I’ve seen and heard in my lifetime) I’ll be starting a couple new Substack projects. This book is a free download on my website. (www.michaelwelchpublications.com)
Greg Parnell – Orlando Jazz Orchestra – Glenn Miller Orchestra
I’ve seen and heard Greg in several ensembles including trio, quartet and his big band orchestra. He’s been a great addition to the Central Florida Community with his contribution to the creative arts. Greg is a great drummer for all styles including swing and bebop. One of my favorites events was his presentation of West Coast Jazz. In that book are arrangements by Jerry Mulligan and others, I think. I really enjoyed that instrumentation and style. It was a smaller ensemble. I’ve also heard Greg play full big band Buddy Rich charts, not easy. Greg also plays the book of Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers with Cubop. Another difficult style Greg interprets with finesse. He usually plays one of his many Gretsch Round Badge kits. I’ve also seen him with Camco vintage drums. My last conversation with him, he told me he owned 20+ vintage kits. I’ve also heard his story of finding a Camco set at the curb, which I’ve seen, amazing. If in Central Florida, I highly recommend anything with Greg Parnell’s name on the marquee.