Question: I've heard people describe your drumming style as being unique and innovative. Do you agree? How do you think you have set yourself apart from other drummers?
Mark Zonder: "I think I have two main points that are in line with the question. First, I practice a lot and try to improve my playing. Both the physical side of drumming and also the musical side. Second I will listen to any kind of music and steal ideas from wherever I can. I am constantly trying to expand my playing."
Question: Who are some of your favorite bands? Who are some of your favorite drummers?
Mark Zonder: "I like most of the older bands. Rush, Marillion, Kansas etc.....As far as drummers, not in any order.......Steve Smith, Dave Weckl, David Garibaldi. Aynsley Dunbar was an early influence and sort of steered me into the progressive style. There are many others as well."
"Find a weakness that you have and spend some serious time trying to improve the area. I find that I have a tendency to rush and play a bit on top of the beat. So I spent some time trying to lay things back. I used a click track for some and just tried to groove with other patterns. You need to focus and mentally concentrate on what you are trying to do. You should see the results of your practice in a very short amount of time."
Question: What role do you think the drums play in a band or song?
Mark Zonder: "The drums can be anything from a light cymbal part to a driving double bass part. That is part of the beauty of the drums. There are so many possibilities for expression."
Question: Do you play any other instruments other than drums?
Mark Zonder: "Nope."
"Find a weakness that you have and spend some serious time trying to improve the area. I find that I have a tendency to rush and play a bit on top of the beat. So I spent some time trying to lay things back. I used a click track for some and just tried to groove with other patterns. You need to focus and mentally concentrate on what you are trying to do. You should see the results of your practice in a very short amount of time."
