In 1933, during the American Legion National Convention at Chicago, a group of drummers from all parts of the country, had the occasion to meet and discuss present and past methods of drumming and drum instruction. Thirteen of the twenty-six rudiments were selected by this group and termed the “thirteen essential rudiments of drumming” that all drummers should know. It was decided to adopt the “Th
irteen Essential Rudiments” as a test for membership in the “Thirteen Club,” organized for the promotion of rudimental drumming. This club idea met with such favorable response that it decided to adopt the name of National Association of Rudimental Drummers and to further encourage the study of rudimental drumming. was sponsored by the Ludwig Drum Company - William F. Ludwig being one of it’s founders and presidents - a proud tradition that stood the test of time until the organization experienced its final day of operation on December 31, 1977. In spite of its closing, however, the inspiration and influence that N.A.R.D. had developed over the years lingered on. Through various live performances, private & group lessons, clinics and later via a number of method books, videos, the internet and offshoot organizations & clubs, the surviving members of N.A.R.D. still managed to keep the spirit of the organization and Rudimental Drumming alive. There was always the hope, though, that one day N.A.R.D. would once again open its doors to the drumming world. On December 31, 2008, exactly 31 years to the day since N.A.R.D. had disbanded, that hope was finally realized. Therefore ... it is with great pleasure that we, the surviving members of N.A.R.D., reactivate the National Association of Rudimental Drummers for all to enjoy and play a role in maintaining the history & integrity of the Art of Rudimental Drumming. Although this new edition of N.A.R.D. is privately funded and is no longer a non-profit organization, it is officially approved by Ludwig Drums/Conn-Selmer, with the new President of N.A.R.D., Mark Beecher, being an endorser for Ludwig Drums/Conn-Selmer. We are also honored to have the legendary William Ludwig III as one of our members and endorsers! Not only did the year 2008 welcome a new beginning and revival for N.A.R.D., but it also celebrates the 75th Anniversary of the original founding of the National Association of Rudimental Drummers in 1933.
