The Percussion Marketing Council (PMC) named Anthony Lowe as its International Drum Month “Roadie for a Day” grand-prize winner. Lowe received a backstage tour and visit with celebrity spokesperson and internationally acclaimed drummer Cindy Blackman Santana at the Santana concert in Tinley Park, Ill. on Aug. 4.
Before the show, Blackman Santana’s drum tech gave Lowe a detailed tour of her kit as it sat on stage. Lowe learned about her monitoring system, how she rotates her sticks, and unique aspect to her approach for a long show. Lowe also received a special gift package from the PMC members which included a crash cymbal, drum sticks, and a wide assortment of branded merchandise.
“Cindy Blackman Santana was a fantastic celebrity drummer and International Drum Month event host who enjoyed giving this educational experience to this year’s winner. Every year the PMC hosts this contest where one lucky winner receives a life-changing experience. This connection of the percussion industry, music retailers, and the drumming community throughout the country is amazing and grows every year,” said PMC representative and on-location host Brad Smith.
“The 2019 International Drum Month campaign and ‘Roadie for a Day’ grand prize received widespread interest and support from the entire percussion industry,” added PMC co-executive director Karl Dustman. “We saw growing participation from drum retailers nationwide, all developing their own regional International Drum Month promotion and event theme. “Roadie contest” entries were processed, and more than 145,000 social media impressions were recorded. Plans are already developing for the PMC’s 25-year anniversary in 2020 with a completely new May International Drum Month theme and market development initiative.”