Michael Welch here. In 1980 I authored and published my first edition of Quadragrip, I advertised it in Modern Drummer. Ron Spagnardi was kind to publish my concept in the April 1981 edition with the great Hal Blaine on the cover.
My teacher Tommy Thomas (1901-1995) introduced me to Louie Bellson. Louie immediately started developing this 4 stick idea and presented it in his drum solos. Louie got very good utilizing 4 sticks, especially on snare drum.
Reaching out to other drummers and percussionist my book was validated by several including: Vic Firth, Jim Chapin, Berklee School of Music, John Beck, Ted Reed and more. Those gentlemen were very encouraging of my concept to expand the sound of the drumset.
Upon release of my book I became employed as a staff musician at Walt Disney World. My self published marketing efforts stopped.
Since 1980 I’ve been ‘in the shed’ developing my Quadragrip experiments. In 1990 I started recording video demonstrations. I’ve been active ‘under the radar’ for decades now.
My journey as a music/drummer is documented in my 2026 book, ‘Notes from an OLD drummer’ available in paperback here on NSMD.
My Quadragrip book includes concept, technique, method and my insider playing experiences. I completely understand that Duogrip is quite adequate. I continue to play mono-grip and Duogrip.
Playing drumset is a sound journey with many styles and methods. In 2026 I’m amazed at the technical ability of young drummers.
My music journey has been very rewarding and eclectic. I’ve played Rock 4/4 backbeat Top 40, Jazz, Blues and more. I was employed briefly as a orchestra percussionist before being hired at Walt Disney World.
In 1984 I studied with Elvin Jones. I dedicate this book to Elvin, Tommy Thomas and Derek Bailey.
In 1999, I began collaborating with many creative improvisational musicians including Derek Bailey, Sam Rivers, Roscoe Mitchell, Peter Kowald, John Butcher, Jon Rose, Matt Shipp, Elliott Sharp, Gary Smith, Tony Bevan and more. These individuals are mainly known and perform in Europe.
The material in my book includes essays and my opinion of drumming, Jazz, education, music, performance, improvisation and more.
I’m very happy with the final edition for this 2026 version.
My music journey continues to evolve. At the age of 76 I’ve adjusted my drumming. My Quadragrip concept has allowed me to get my unique sound as I’ve slowed down.
I completely understand that this method has limited almost zero appeal to most. It’s a difficult technique to semi-master. I didn’t get comfortable with it until 1995. 15 years of ‘shed time’ before I started presenting it on public gigs.
My absolute Quadragrip manifesto is that it’s musical, not a gimmick.
Thanks for looking, Michael Welch
https://youtu.be/WwyCTxDk2ek?si=Otjpd1QVwVmSCkTm
https://youtu.be/1wiNsvz4-j4?si=KmdVWSF44YJfR98B