Sanford A. Moeller

Sanford Augustus "Gus" Moeller (1886–1960) was an American rudimental drummer, a national champion, educator, and author. Moeller was born in Albany, New York, and began his music education by studying the piano.

While still a young man, Moeller also learned the snare drum and studied with August Helmicke. He served in the Spanish–American War. Later, Moeller moved to New York, playing vaudeville shows with George M. Cohen. He also played for the Metropolitan opera house and the Seventh Regimental Army Band.

He is also known for what is called the Moeller Method, which essentially documents the way of playing snare drum used in the army, particularly in the Civil War. Among Moeller's pupils included Gene Krupa and the late Jim Chapin.

Moeller and drum instruction

"The belief that anyone can beat a drum is discouragingly popular!" - Sanford Augustus ‘Gus’ Moeller

Gus' Moeller is usually associated with the "Moeller Method" or 'Moeller Technique' (considered by some to be a misnomer), which advocates the use of 'ancient' snare drumming techniques that can be used by drummers when playing a drum set (drum kit).