Now that the finalists have been chosen for the American Idol Season 11 Hollywood, Ca. eliminations, the “Mentoring” sessions will begin.  Starting on 3.2.12 the finalists will be “Mentored” by a music superstar, in preparation for their next weeks performances.  These sessions are held at Interscope record’s studios in Santa Monica. Ca. and features an ensemble assembled specifically for their versatility in many music styles.  The guest artist works directly with the band (with Russ Miller appearing on the drums) and the finalists, experimenting with the chosen songs and the finalists singing styles.  The band then records live in the studio.  The final arrangement and each recording is sent to an orchestrator, to be charted and prepared for the “On Air” performances for the eliminations the next week.

Russ  Miller is using a hybrid kit of Yamaha PHX and DTX gear, Zildjian acoustic and Gen-16 hybrid cymbals, Remo Coated Ambassador and Fiberskyn 3 Diplomat heads, Shure microphones and Meinl bells and timbales.  For more information please visit: