The contraption known as the "trap set" or "drum kit" was developed out
of necessity over 100 years ago and has since revolutionized the way we
play drums. People of all ages, races, and creeds have made their
contributions to perfect the instrument and how it's played. However,
women who have found themselves underneath it's spotlight have been
very few and far between. Some cultures have even viewed the drums as
being "unladylike" but in recent years more women have been making an
impact on the drumming community. Hannah Ford is leading the charge for
the next generation by breaking the mold of the girl next door. While
most of her friends played with Barbies at age 7, Hannah chose the
drums. Since then she's worked hard to develop her talents in order to
set herself apart from the common stereotypes regarding a woman's place
behind the kit. Only 2 years out of high school Hannah has been called
one of the best up and coming drummers in the country. She has already
achieved honors such as winning the 2006 Louie Bellson Heritage Days
Drum Competition (only girl ever to do so) and the "Outstanding Jazz
Musician" award at the New Trier Jazz Festival in Chicago! Aside from
other awards Hannah has her own signature stick from Vater she uses
during her various gigs. When she's not a full time student Hannah's
other projects include The Hannah Ford Band, Pandorum (fusion), and her
one-woman "Peace Love & Drums" multi-media show. While at the
Winter NAMM Show I had the chance to catch up with Hannah and talk
about some of her goals for the upcoming year.
I like that. Thanks Damian for sharing this interview with us. I had never heard of Hanna in France but now... I know her ;-) Is she a member of drummerconnection ?
Burnside1664 Says Hanna has a very mature head for someone so young, I was impress
Submitted On: Monday, Apr 19, 2010 - 11:34 AM
Hanna has a very mature head for someone so young, I was impressed by her obvious love of drums and the openess to learning.