A complete guide for assisting drummers in getting cruise ship gigs, and helping drummers maintain a high professional standard throughout their contracts. This 40 page guide contains pertinent information with regards to auditioning, musical environment, life off the bandstand, and a special FAQ and interview section which paints a clear picture of this fantastic and versatile job. A must have book for drummers starting their first cruise ship contract, or for drummers already sailing the high seas and looking to enhance their performance. Includes drum notations and 24 photos. Preface: You've finished practicing and studying from a drum book, but where do you put those learned skills to use in the real-world? How about show band drumming on board a cruise ship? It's the perfect gig to play everything you've ever learned (and more), continue growing and developing skills further while collecting a steady paycheck. A ship gig is the link many drummers need to get to the next big gig, and it's a stepping stone for many musicians to move on to high-profile jobs. Who goes directly to studio, television or Broadway gigs just by practicing and studying from a book? Who should teach drums without real-world playing experience? Who can afford new gear or drum transportation costs on top of student loan repayments? Ship gigs can solidify the foundations to obtain these goals through daily performances in front of 250-3000 people, and by providing an abundance of free time to practice and work on personal projects. Plus, it's a low stress environment - paychecks are guaranteed, meals are provided, and the rent is free. Musicians often need jobs after graduating from school or when steady gigs dry up, the main reasons I've compiled this guide. This book provides a window of opportunity for drummers and demystifies the unknown. The cruise industry offers many jobs for musicians, and it's relatively easy to save money on these gigs. For example, after a six month contract a drummer could have saved twelve to twenty-four thousand dollars, mostly due in part to free room and board. This doesn't have to be a lifetime gig, but one or two contracts could provide the financial boost needed to lift you to the next successful step in life. The show band drum chair is not for everybody, but it is a great opportunity for drummers willing to expand on their versatility and get paid while seeing the world. Good luck