Part biography, part career guidance, and part motivational book, Fred Dinkins lays out his life story and provides tools for all musicians to overcome their challenges and achieve success. Beyond his personal story, Fred provides advice for practicing, overcoming anxiety, managing your time, getting better gigs, working with people, and much more. The Upstrokes and Downstrokes of My Life will inspire you to build a bigger and better music career. Fred Dinkins is known worldwide for his unique ability to teach and play the drums. Fred has been the Musical Director for the world renowned Deniece Williams for the last 15-plus years. He has also taught at the world-famous Musicians Institute for 28 years. Fred has taught and mentored students spanning from the United States to Asia (mainly in Japan). Some of Fred’s students are currently playing in the music field as well. Fred has been seen on the Good Morning America TV show, on HBO with the Emotions singing group, and American Bandstand’s 50th Anniversary show with Janice Marie and Taste of Honey. Fred has also performed with Gospel singer Tramaine Hawkins. Fred received a Grammy nomination for her record-breaking hit “What Shall I Do.” Check out Fred’s latest work on listening platforms, which features Deniece Williams, Stanley Clarke, Paul Jackson, Jr., Freddie Washington, Alex Acuna, Dean Brown, Scott Mayo, Azar Lawrence, and Rique Pantora, and more. eBook | 144 Pages “Fred Dinkins is a master teacher with over 35 years of proven instructional experience at the Musicians Institute. His first book, It’s About Time, has become a staple in the drumming community, and his latest work, The Up and Downstrokes of My Life: From Practice to a Pro is poised to be an essential resource for all aspiring drummers.” —Harvey Mason “I read Mr. Fred Dinkins’ new book. I found it inspiring. And I learned some things about this man I didn’t know. But, again, the thing I got from the book is: never give up! Whatever positive thing you wanna do in your life, what you feel in your heart…then GO FOR IT! Life is yours and only you can navigate.” —Dennis Chambers “Everything you’re stating in your book, The Up and Downstrokes of My Life: From Practice to a Pro most definitely will help every reader to acquire and understand the insights … and will strengthen us all with faith and understanding about the wonderful gift we have received from the Almighty. We will become the powerful instrument to worship with confidence and be on top of our game constantly, in every musical and job situation. Thank you for writing this great work. I know it will bring many to accomplish their dreams, desires, and visions about their lives and ministries.” —Alex Acuña