Nick D’Virgilio: Progressive Rock Drumming Tips (FULL DRUM LESSON)

Faster Hands & Feet (in 10 days)
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With years of experience as the drummer for progressive rock bands Spock's Beard and Big Big Train, Nick D’Virgilio is THE drummer to teach you how to improve your progressive rock drumming. Luckily for you, he’s here to do just that in this lesson. Nick will perform "Haymaking" by Big Big Train, then deconstruct the song while covering the key elements you should be focusing on in order to get more comfortable playing in a prog setting.
Make sure you download the play-along track:
►Drumeo.com/beat/prog-rock-dru...
Lesson Index:
0:00 - SONG: "Snow Medley"
4:34 - Introduction
8:37 - Lesson begins
10:27 - SONG: "Haymaking" by Big Big Train
14:20 - How to make prog rock groove
17:54 - Chops in prog rock
23:37 - Counting and structure tips
30:32 - How to write parts that fit
43:14 - SONG: "Box of Spiders" by Spock's Beard
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About Nick:
Nick D'Virgilio has developed an illustrious career in the world of progressive music. Although he's widely known for his work with former band Spock's Beard and current band Big Big Train, Nick has also been called upon to lay some tasty playing on music from huge artists like Genesis and Tears for Fears, and to tour with Cirque du Soleil for "Totem". Not willing to set into a single role, Nick has also developed his skills in various instruments - including vocals - and is currently working at Sweetwater Sound where he teaches, does session work, and creates tutorials, demo, and review videos.

[@eskilseter]

One of the most underrated drummers in history. Nick absolutely slays, and always with that smooth laid-back feel and a big smile on his face. Those big tom rolls he pulls out are pure awesome.

[@josteinv.jordet257]

Norsk?

[@Cobalt985]

For real. And the track he was playing with Big Big Train made me wanna check them out more, really reminds me of Genesis and Yes. Just a smattering of Dream Theater in there too. There was quite a bit more DT sound in the Spock's Beard medley, which sounded pretty sick.

[@PabloJ1968]

Multi instrumentalist and a heck of a vocalist too!

[@DailyFrankPeter]

Yeah, you forgot to mention he can sing.

[@jamessbca]

I love this guy. Talks to you / acts like your buddy / friend from next door. Walks in and kills it on the drums. Normal guy. Plays like a freaking hero.

[@brianmendelsohn2789]

One of the nicest and most humble guys out there! Nice catch Drumeo

[@BarbellThor]

“Ok so I work at this place called Sweetwater.” Oh we know.

[@kushking420]

lmao

[@mallorga1965]

This has been one of the most enjoyable videos I've seen on Drumeo. Nick is not only a great drummer, but also a great communicator. Long live Prog Rock!

[@selftaughtD]

I've seen this guy on youtube and I thought he was just a very cool drum reviewer. Didn't know that he is an absolute monster. Biggest respect from south Korea

[@rocktonmusikschule]

Its all about the music. He is a great drummer, singer and musician. I can here a lot of Collins influence in his playing. Both are so underrated. Great!

[@ogden700]

Oh my goodness! To watch Nick D'Virgilio play the Overture to "Snow", up close and direct: I fainted. This is the music, and the musicianship, that is heard in heaven (beside, as Douglas Coupland has pointed out, the opening 20 seconds of "Lovely Rita".) Wow. Just. Wow. Unbelievable. What a song. What drumming chops. Wow.

[@SKragseth]

Yes! Nick is the man! Love his playing and Sweetwater demos

[@kickazzdrummer666]

Talented drummer Great teacher Awesome salesman My new drum-idol!

[@enzonicita2000]

My favorite drummer in the world... Always he smiles, he feels the music... Thanks Nick for your music.

[@itsjoeredula7]

One of my all time favorite drummers. Very versatile and he can play almost all instruments. Amazing and talented man. It's great to see him in Drumeo.

[@JD-qp9ox]

Most underrated drummer of the 21st century.

[@arsonality3797]

21st century schitzoid man

[@transatlanticwhirlwind7589]

TheAnime Kid That would be Giles.

[@markdemell3717]

I play like that ,when I am sleeping in dream land.

[@PabloJ1968]

Multi instrumentalist ad a heck of a vocalist too!

[@alainassenberg]

Finally! One of the most underrated drummers...no, musicians! With his own soundsignature, by his playing and chosen gear. Love his style of phrasing and groove. He playes more notes than most pop/rock/prog-drummers, but so musically. What brand is that China??? Yes, I also love the choosen cymbals. Paiste Masters are great crashes. But only Meinl can make the best special EFX cymbals. Snare tuned up and wires losen, love that! It gives the snare a more blending effect in the overall balance/space (maybe a bit to much snarebottom in the mix?). But than, Drumeo brings the best mixes in drumvideo's these days. But....this is my view on life here. Everybody is different. Thank you, Nick. For being such a inspiring drummer and person!

[@snoholoans]

I had no idea Nick is such an animal! Super impressed. And as stated, so humble!

[@craigdoucette1929]

I always wondered what Nick’s process/thinking was when he goes into the zone behind his kit. The way he breaks things down to ensure musicality is incredible.

[@blakeyeatsteaky]

Nick is a legend! What a hell of a guy.

[@KingXanadu]

Best episode ever. Need more prog! Nick is amazing

[@mariacarrillo7779]

loved every part of this lesson: nick is a passionate drummer and an amazing teacher!! we need more of him in Drumeo! we need more of him and his passion in our drumming.

[@krishnendubiswas4584]

Right

[@sergioponti3195]

Nick has been a long time favorite of mine. Such a musical drummer. Awesome musician. Many years ago, when I was 20, I helped Spock's Beard book a gig at our local club during a day off. The stage was a bit small, so my late dad, myself and Tony, the owner, worked the whole night before the show to make it bigger using pallets and plywood. The following day, as the band arrived, some friends and I helped them unload and set up, and Nick showed me his way of tuning drums and was very gracious the whole time, despite being severely jetlagged. After the show he and the keyboard played came and cornered me and basically "forced" me to take a fee for booking the show. Nick said "it's just fair, and from now on you will always know that those who work for you deserve to be paid". Class act!

[@jamiegolden7093]

"Snow" was Spock Beard's magnum opus, IMO, and if you think Nick slays behind the drum kit, check out the live performance when he takes center stage to Sing "Carie", a magnificent ballad from the second disc. Thanks for this!

[@davidbergmanpdx]

Aside from being an EXCELLENT musician, Nick always comes off as very humble and genuine. Glad to learn more about his playing-thanks Drumeo!

[@RandyHanley]

Nick is a drumming and vocal genius. I can't stop there, he plays guitar..the guy is good at everything.

[@danaaronmusic]

I'm not even a drummer, but this is a great lesson for anyone who's into playing progressive rock, on any instrument, or anyone who's just interested in understanding the music.

[@RoeShamBoe]

gonna be a spike in Spock's Beard and Big Big Train iTunes sales after this vid

[@trevorschnedler4472]

better be! They never get enough recognition

[@jonashellborg8320]

Why I really like Spock’s Beard and Big Big Train as progressive acts is, melodies aside, that thing Nick did/does of putting pocket and groove into odd time signatures, making the music interesting and full of groove.

[@Audioholics]

Nick is such an amazing drummer and humble human being. Snow is hands down Spock Beard's best album, IMHO, largely due to his contribution.

[@fanfanfanfan4840]

C'est super jubilatoire de te voir jouer Nick. Je suis un fan absolu, oui tu as au moins un fan en France, je plaisante!!!! Merci, merci etttttttt merci

[@bobsondugnutt7526]

He's such a good pitch man on drum demos, nice to see that he's so accomplished as well. Cool guy.

[@Neil-Aspinall]

Nick is one of those great feel drummers, very musical.

[@ebpat]

So glad you guys had Nick on!! The guy does the absolute BEST drum reviews on KZbin! Excellent drummer and seems like a genuinely nice guy. I just bought a Mapex Armory kit based on his great review. Thanks, Nick!!

[@MichaelClaudio13]

NICK IS AMAZING!!! ONE OF MY FAVORITE DRUMMERS!!! seems like such an amazing guy.

[@krazYFaic]

Its always a treat to see Nick play. Such a great drummer and all around good entertainer.

[@drummerkev1627]

This is one of my favorite videos Drumeo has made to date. I can relate with Nick on so many different levels. We’re both close in age, Prog rock is my favorite genre of music to play, Phil Collins is also one of favorite drummers growing up. Now since Nick has become the face of Sweetwater I decided to buy my DW Collectors series drum kit from them because Nick knows exactly what key features to talk about and demonstrate for us drummers, not to mention he’s highly underrated as a drummer! He’s an incredible drummer and can play anything. He comes across as a very nice and humble guy while being an incredibly highly talented drummer and well rounded musician. He’s a very intelligent highly talented musician. He’s taken Sweetwater to a whole new level making them my first “go to” online store to shop. Y’all should have Nick back again!

[@wdouglascordeirojr]

This is just gold. Back when I first heard Spock's Beard I was really into Aquiles Priester's style, wich is awesome but very stiff, and Nick blew my mind with his musicality and soul. To this day I always get back to hearing and studying Nick when I feel my drumming is getting kinda stiff.

[@glauberbelo9602]

Nick is an amazing drummer and beyond. He’s a brilliant composer! There’s no anyone out there so talented as Nick. This guy deserve all respect and sucess.

[@skylineian]

Really great lesson! I seen this guy do demos for Sweetwater drum gear, but I had no idea he was such an awesome drummer. Much respect

[@zero28ism]

YES, FINALLY. NICK IS GREAT

[@darinwood2183]

How did I miss this 4 months ago? I really enjoy hearing about the thought process that goes into play the song. Excellent explanation of how to play odd time.

[@froblivion8284]

What a brilliant musician- swinging with power ! He’s as good as drumming gets & really seems like a decent chap to boot. Class act.

[@danielalejandrofernandez180]

15:58 that's such a great and understandable expanation. Very musical and intuitive.

[@gringochucha]

Such a great combination of chops and musicality, and always so smooth and relaxed. Nick is an absolute beast and an inspiration to keep learning as a drummer.

[@dwdrumz1]

Flowing artistry and a naturally gifted player! Great musician and teacher. Awesome skills, thanks Nick!

[@Jellybeantiger]

Love prog,my fav genre of music especially all the classic 70s stuff.

[@julsrique9148]

Virgilio is a all-around beast Drummer! One of the most versatile drummer that I ever see! He is in my top ten drummer list!

[@incutool]

I love how Mr D’Virglio commanded the floor and didn’t let the host become redundant!

[@jhonnattanalexandercornejo3526]

Nick uno de mis bateristas favoritos, tanto su tecnica y la forma del desempeño como musico. saludos desde El salvador

[@davidmcaninch4714]

What Nick is saying reminds me of a saying from one of my favorite cartoon characters of all time: “It is important to draw wisdom from many different places. If you take it from only one place, it becomes rigid and stale. Understanding others will help you become whole.”

[@Kraz3e987]

Everyone's favorite uncle, Iroh

[@360.Tapestry]

i always see this guy demo-ing different drum kits. always thought his playing was very crisp and clean.... so excellent to get a lesson from him and get a peak at his philosophy on drumming

[@Sundaydrumday]

One of my top drummers...dude is so fluid and so on top of it

[@TedSchoenling]

Nick is such a musical player... always a joy to hear him!

[@westondifranco9313]

Something else you can do in a 8 based odd meter (5/8, 9/8, 7/8) is on the ride, accent every other beat. Creates a cool over the bare line feel, but is so musical.

[@vanhunsberger4192]

love nick's playing. technical yet so smooth and groovy. excellent vocalist as well.

[@Diatonic5th]

I love the loose feel approach that he uses in odd time signatures. It almost swings a little bit and doesn't sound clinical or soulless.

[@krishnendubiswas4584]

Amazing...... Brilliantly explained the most difficult parts of drumming industry...

[@alm5966]

Saw him with BBT in 2017 and he's amazing. Definitely one of the best I've seen live and I've seen both Rush and Tool.

[@mjulio71]

About time!!! Nick has been a favorite of mine for decades now - Thanks for another excellent featured artist.

[@gabrieldaigle]

Beyond amazing. Always in the groove. Always smooth and flawless. That sticking on the snare alone kills me. I can only aspire to be Nick. And a super nice guy. If I could add one more item to his portfolio it would be his time with Kevin Gilbert. Go check out the Shaming of the True, the album released after Kevin's death. He had a huge part in finishing that thing up. A masterpiece. As is most everything Nick touches.

[@hwangman]

Fantastic! Been a fan of Nick's work since the mid-90s. So glad to see him on here.

[@drums4lyfe0987]

Nick has been one of my biggest influences since high school.

[@sergioponti]

one of the best and most underrated players!

[@charliemarley1513]

Love his style and feel. I used to watch the sweetwater drum demos just to listen to his playing

[@klchu]

He also played with Kevin GIlbert! He even help complete KG's posthumous album.

[@whanowa]

I also have a wild "cymbal salad" in my kits because I like to choose the products that sound best instead of focusing on a brand. In my experience there isn't one set of cymbals where every single piece is perfect for what I'm looking for.

[@blackasthesky]

I can't even afford an entire new cymbal set, or even a single brand new cymbal. I always test and buy used stuff.

[@garyconner6151]

Amen to that brother.i play what sounds good to me.right now it's PDP drums and paiste cymbals.dw pedals and remo pinstripes. And promark.5as. or 5b sticks.keep jamming drummer's.

[@garyconner6151]

@@blackasthesky whatever works for you.just do it.and good luck to all my drum friends no matter there playing style.

[@billbigler1366]

Phenomenal lesson. And yes is a very humble and personable guy. He is the kind of teacher you just want to learn from.

[@lvvry1855]

Great job. Finally, a rock guy who thinks musically first, then technique. A pleasure to watch and hear.

[@blucero102]

Thanks for bringing it every time Nick!

[@richbvw]

That last track was totally insane. Great lesson, great drummer

Watching this for the umpteenth time!! I love this man!! The finest drummer out there!!! Period!!

This is such an inspirational video drumming lesson by one of the absolutely finest musicians I know!

[@gingerfloof777]

Me: Which cymbal brand do you use? Nick: Yeah, those.

[@DPdrum1]

you guys put out top notch videos! ....Very thankful you guys put up this free content for drummers! fantastic stuff

[@martingregory161]

Brilliant video. Thanks! Nick is simply superb. So glad he is playing with the fabulous BBT.

[@DarrenX9]

Love everything about this... the music, the playing, the kit, the setup.

[@seanguaraldi2787]

Nick is awesome, I’m so excited for this video!

[@danielalejandrofernandez180]

He's such a good drum teacher. Even if he's not going for it. This is just a tiny master class.

[@billbrandt1106]

You SOLD me Nick - I'm totally jazzed about playing progressive music and I'm looking for a progressive band to join.

[@leandrovergara]

De mis bateristas preferidos!! Nick siempre sólido!!!

[@yourdrummer2034]

Nick just tears it up all over the place! Damn!! Love it, Nick!

[@dimitrisloukas4780]

Very useful advices, I didn't know much about Nick but he is great educator, thank you Nick and Drumeo !!

[@trevorschnedler4472]

Unreal. Best video ever! Been listening to Spock's Beard since Octane came out. Nick is soooo good. Watching these great drummers I badly need to build my left foot independence for running hi hat in the background. If anyone has tips they are much appreciated.

[@TheJLPShow]

THE most under-appreciated drummer on Earth.

[@viniciusazevedo7944]

As a professional drummer I most say Nick is definitely one the most all around refined and technically talented drummers in the world !

[@Artikulo71]

Awesome Drummer! One Of The Best!🤘🤘

[@FranksDrumCave]

SWEET. My favorite drummer, from my favorite place to shop!

[@joeyturrubiate7148]

Thax"s MR. NICK. FOR SHARING YOUR DRUMMING STUFF ,AND OBvious Talent ,,, i have been Playing & learning drums for many years Now ! SO LONG STORY SHORT I CALL MY SELF AH PASSION DRUM PLAYER / WHAT I MISS IN TECHNICAL TEACH"IN. / I MAKE UP WITH PASSIONATE PLAYING ..SO ONCE AGAIN THAX'S 4 THE PARADIDAL WORK -OUT 🥁🙏🎵🇺🇸📌J.T. FR: SAN JOSE , CAL.

[@cnonymous]

Love Nick. Great drummer, great teacher, great person. I would love to meet him! He seems really cool!

[@bradanderson1442]

I just love Nick!

[@Sunkan86]

I was thinking that you should have him on 2 days ago, my prayers have been heard! Sick influence for me personally. Love your content Drumeo!

[@dwdrumz1]

The realization that odd times are counted at different tempos within the section/part is an ah ha moment for musicians/drummers. Ex. 1, 2, 3,.1234567, 1, 2, 3, 4,.1234567. Cool great way to phrase and understand the feel and make the music have groove.

[@TripleFermentation]

Those aren't different tempos, just to be clear; they're different note values.

[@josemoralesmusic1003]

i can almost hear "Ask your sweetwater sales engineer" in my mind

[@mustakinfat1]

😂

[@darkdrift0r124]

This guy is legendary! UNDERRATED! FINALLY.

[@jdallavia]

One of the best drummers. Great.

[@mulotwo]

What a pleasure seeing Nick plays !

[@jeanmicheldeblois2896]

one of my fave drummer's for sure !!! thanks for all the tricks and tips Nick !!!

[@ricohorton]

Great to see Nick giving some progressive tips on Drumeo. Great drummer!

[@MoisesVillafuerte]

I like his drumming & reviews !

[@wurdofwizdumb1928]

This guy has such a musical soul. I love this man hahah.

[@garyconner6151]

Been listening to Spock's beard so nice the Early nineties.nick is one of the best.

[@ashimdrumz3690]

Best lessons ever ... We are musician before we re a Drummer, pianists , guitarist or any other stuff...

[@markberry4133]

Nick is Incredible Was lucky to see Carl Palmer recently also one of my favorite drummers that plays progressive rock