Definitely before my time, but I'm sure my teacher, Phil Stanger would know, as he's probably one of the living few left, that was a student of Roy's.

I began playing in late november '65, at the Chicago School of Music, which was on VanBuren, and near State St in Chicago's Loop. Phil was my teacher for 2 weeks there, then he left for Frank's Drum Shop on 226 Wabash Ave.

I followed, and that was early Dec 1965. For the next 4-1/2 years, every weekend, I had my lesson with Phil, and in the back of Frank's Drum Shop, on either side of Phil's little cubicle, was Roy Knapp on one side, and Bob Tilles on the other.

I took my NARD Test from Roy in July '68, and passed first time out. Still have the signed Plaque from Roy sealed away, as it meant a lot to me, that although I didn't study with the Dean of Drums, I did at least pass my NARD Test with him.

Roy was a tough old bird, and the test was a bit frightening going in, and was worried I wouldn't pass. As a 12 year old, it meant a lot to me.

As they say, drums, like anything else, you get out, what you put in. Luckily back then, I did my homework that the test only lasted about 2 minutes flat, breezing through all 26 Rudiments like one piece of Music. I only had to stop to flip the page.

If you possibly wish to investigate more about Roy Knapp, Phil would be one man who could probably answer any, and all of your questions, Phil, as always, is as sharp as a tack, and has a memory as clear as a bell.

Phil now lives in Twain Harte, CA, and I do have his phone number.

Mark D.