Charleston drummer wows students at Cabell Midland

ONA -- The young but extremely talented drummer Charles Shelton Jr. visited Cabell Midland High School on Wednesday to show off his nationally-recognized abilities and offer a few pointers to members of the school's bands.

Shelton, a 2004 graduate of Capitol High School, has done nationwide tours with a Logan County band, recorded in Nashville, Tenn., and conducted numerous drumming clinics around the area and country.

"I like hitting the road, but at the same time, I like coming home and giving back to the students," Shelton said after ripping off some drumstick-twirling beats. "I had some great influences, but when I was younger, I remember being in class and never having the opportunity to see anyone professional come through."

Cabell Midland drummer Tyler Stewart said he's enjoyed both clinics Shelton has put on and admitted he went home and tried to recreate the beats.

"It is very impressive what he can do," Stewart said. "(My hands) won't move that fast."

Stewart said although he enjoys watching Shelton's impressive drumming, he also listens when Shelton offers tips. That's what makes the clinics so important, said assistant band director Thomas Warner.

"They are really important because they get to see someone who performs at a much higher level than they are used to seeing," Warner said. "Hopefully, it will inspire them to work harder and maybe spend an extra hour practicing."