One of rock’s most physical drummers, Metallica’s Lars Ulrich plays with his tiptoes—almost like he’s running on his pedals. Coming from a family of professional tennis players (and, in fact, he moved to Los Angeles as a teen to become one himself), the Danish-born heavy metalist instead turned to music with his fancy footwork.
Now, his seven-piece 2017 Hardwired… To Self-Destruct purple sparkle drum kit will be on view at a special event on August 1 at SFMOMA, and at this cool one-day gig, a selection of guest drummers will be playing throughout the late afternoon. But you’re here reading this article because the headline promised that you could play his drums—and you can.
As the multi-sensory exhibit “Art of Noise” draws to a close, an event called Breaking Sound: Lars Ulrich and 40 Years with TAMA Drums lets you watch concert footage from Metallica over the decades and post your musical memories to a fan wall. Then, turn your baseball cap backward and plunk down into his seat. For this incredible chance to play the drums yourself, sleep with one eye open and show up on time because sign-ups will be accepted on a first come, first served basis. Sign up at the entrance to the Gina and Stuart Peterson White Box on Floor 4 of the museum. Only then will this purple kit with bowling ball sparkle dust will let you obey your master. Master!
In case it’s not clear, Ulrich won’t be there himself, but that’s cool. You can just channel him.
Admission? Absolutely free, because the event falls on the first Thursday of the month, which is always free day at the SFMOMA for Bay Area residents. Make sure to build in time to visit all the galleries and get a little greenery in with a stop by the largest living wall in the U.S.
Schedule of guest drummers:
3pm: James “Stick Nasty” Smalls
4pm.: Jacob Nissly
5pm: Paige Baxter
6pm: James “Stick Nasty” Smalls
7pm: Chiyo Nukaga Jacobus
Breaking Sound: Lars Ulrich and 40 Years with TAMA Drums takes place Thursday, August 1 from noon to 8pm at SFMOMA. First come, first served sign-ups are available at the entrance to the Floor 4 White Box.