Vise Grips, used by Buddy Rich

Vise Grips, used by Buddy Rich

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Description

This vise grips were made by an unknown maker, undetermined place, early 1980s. It is made of metal.

This vise grips are from a drumset used by Buddy Rich in 1983-1987.

Bernard "Buddy" Rich (1917-1987) began his professional career as a drummer, tap dancer, and singer with his parents' vaudeville act before the age of two. By the time he was six, "Traps, the Boy Wonder," had performed on Broadway and toured the United States and Australia.

With the demise of the vaudeville circuit and the popularity of the swing era, Buddy became an orchestra musician. His talents as a drummer landed him a job offer with Joe Marsala's band at the Hickory House in New York City in 1937. This led to a long line of high-profile performances with Bunny Berrigan, Artie Shaw, Tommy Dorsey, and Benny Carter. Buddy's playing style was characterized by phenomenal speed, four-way independence, and an uncanny way of driving a big band.

Location
Currently not on view
Object Name
vise grips
date made
early 1980s
user
Rich, Bernard "Buddy"
Physical Description
metal (overall material)
Measurements
vise grips: 7/8 in x 2 1/2 in x 9 3/4 in; 2.2225 cm x 6.35 cm x 24.765 cm
ID Number
1988.0665.23
accession number
1988.0665
catalog number
1988.0665.23
Credit Line
Gift of Cathy and Marie Rich
See more items in
Culture and the Arts: Musical Instruments
Music & Musical Instruments
Percussion
Data Source
National Museum of American History
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