That one sounds fascinating!I'm not sure if the info exists for what I'd like to find out: basically, when and where the first schools of brush playing developed (obviously it wasn't New Orleans). I tried researching rag-time drummers in the New York area and Charles 'Buddy' Gilmore seems to have been hugely influential on the white, jazz drummers who followed in his wake. Nothing to link him to brushes, though.
I just realized I had forgotten that I have the book "Jazz - A History Of The New York Scene", by Samual B. Charters and Leonard Kunstadt also.
I'll keep looking for brushe info. If you think of something else that I can check for you, feel free to ask! I am looking forward to seeing what you uncover.
The book above mentions Gilmore on page 33 “Buddy Gilmore, traps and drums” in reference to Europe’s band (1913?) There is a reference to Gilmore on page 38 also. They were mentioning a recording session with Europe’s orchestra that was supervised by Vern and Irene Castle (the dancers) in 1914.
Here is a quote: “The first record, “Castle Rock”, is dominated by the rhythm drumming of Buddy Gilmore, the first jazz drummer in the modern sense of the word. His drumming now sounds monotonous and heavy, but for 1914 he was sensational. He was a featured part of the entertainment at Castle House, using a drum set that included not only snare and bass drums but an assortment of cymbals, woodblocks, and cowbells. Vernon was so impressed with him that he took lessons from Buddy and finally began sponsoring afternoon drum battles between Buddy and other drummers playing with Europe orchestras.”
