(Reference). Discover one of America's greatest contributions to the music world the drumset by exploring this book. This unique publication uses extensive interviews with the Ludwigs and photos from their personal collections to recall the origins, development, and tools of the craft. You'll also discover why the best drummers Ringo Starr, Joe Morello, Danny Gottlieb and others use Ludwigs. Over 150 photos and illustrations make this an invaluable reference for all drummers.

The Ludwig Book by Rob Cook is the definitive business and historical guide to this legendary drum manufacturer. Includes dozens of interviews, a 64-page color section, a dating guide including every catalogued Ludwig snare drum and outfit, and a handy CD-ROM. Interview sections include the top executives from Ludwig's heyday in the 1960s: Karl Dustman, Frank Baxpehler and Dick Schory, as well as todays leaders: William F. Ludwig III, Todd Trent and Jim Catalano. There are also special segments on Ludwig Electronics, Phase II, and detailed sections about the gear used by famous drummers such as John Bonham and Ringo Starr.

(Book). In this book, author Rob Cook gives the complete history of the Rogers Drum Company, whose drums, in the words of Not-So-Modern Drummer editor John Aldridge, were "the Cadillac of the 1960s...(whose) innovations in hardware design have been copied by almost every drum manufacturer in existence." The Rogers Book covers the company's east coast beginnings, the Covington, OH era, English Rogers, the CBS era, and much more. It includes a list of Rogers endorsees, a comprehensive guide for dating equipment, a color section showing old catalogs and drum colors, the parts listings from all Rogers catalogs, a list of current resources, and lots of photographs throughout. This is a must-have for all drum enthusiasts!

Move over guitar collectors, it's time to give the drummers some ink. One of the world's most valuable collections of vintage snare drums is presented in this beautiful, full-color gift book. The snare drum collector's market is heating up, becoming the next area of interest for music historians and instrument collectors. Highlights: * The book features 84 of the rarest vintage snare drums from Curotto's collection of more than 420. The drums are gold plated/engraved, silver plated/engraved and black engraved snare drums, plus a "Future Collectable" section. * Every snare gets a complete historical description of all facets of its components and the back-story on its creation and where it was "found" before Curotto acquired it. * Brands covered include the most famous manufacturers - Ludwig, Slingerland, Gladstone, Leedy, Gretsch and Wurlitzer. * Photographed with the highest-quality digital camera, the images are gorgeous in detail and lighting. This will make a great gift book.

(Book). The Ludwig Drum Company was the world's largest drum company in the 1920s under founder William F. Ludwig, and again in the 1960s under his son. This fascinating autobiography by William F. Ludwig II begins with his childhood recollections of home life and his father's drum factory. As a teenager, Mr. Ludwig became the national rudimental champion and member of the famous International Marimba Symphony Orchestra. Taking time out for distinguished wartime military service, the author helped his father start a second drum company, W.F.L. Restoration of the family name to the business, Total Percussion, The Beatles, N.A.R.D., selling the company to Selmer, and his active lecture career since all these topics are addressed here in captivating detail, in the words of William F. Ludwig II.

A unique insight into the friendship between the members of the Beatles through postcards sent to Ringo from John, Paul and George. Sensationally presented, this book features 53 postcards sent by John Lennon, George Harrison and Paul McCartney to Ringo Starr. The superb facsimile reproductions of the cards, complete with the occasional drawing, depict both the spontaneous wit and art of the Beatles. The reproduction of the postcards is supplemented by revealing text from Ringo explaining the meaning behind the cards and documenting the corresponding moments in his life. This visually stunning and intriguing book is, quite simply, a must-have for anyone interested in the story of the Beatles phenomenon.

Finally, a book that thoroughly traces the rich history of the American drum industry. Historic information, personal anecdotes, and hundreds of black and white and color photos from the golden era of American drum manufacturing. Includes company profiles of Camco, Fibes, Gretsch, Leedy, LandS, Ludwig, Rogers, Slingerland, WFL, George Way, Walberg and Auge, and several others. Includes details on the distinguishing features of over 100 valuable drums that can help experienced and beginning collectors quickly pinpoint exact age, model, and brand. Plus, the color photo section includes 27 of the most collectible drums in the world today!