Neil Peart: Taking Center Stage: A Lifetime of Live Performance

Taking Center Stage: A Lifetime of Live Performanceis the definitive print tribute to Neil Peart, legendary drummer of Rush and one of rock’s most influential musicians. Originally envisioned as a companion to the acclaimed 2011 three-disc DVD of the same name, this beautifully designed volume weaves together meticulous musical transcriptions, engaging historical narrative, instructional insights, and a stunning array of photographs—making it an essential addition for drummers and Rush fans alike.

At its core, the book presents exclusive, note-for-note transcriptions of 17 Rush classics as performed on theTaking Center StageDVD, capturing exactly how Peart approached these songs later in his career. Tracks include “Tom Sawyer,” “Red Barchetta,” “The Spirit of Radio,” “Free Will,” “Subdivisions,” “Time Stand Still,” “Marathon,” “La Villa Strangiato,” “The Trees,” “Caravan,” “BU2B,” “Far Cry,” and more—each bringing fresh perspective to his iconic drum parts.

Organized chronologically by Rush tours from 1975 through the final performances, each chapter offers deep commentary on the band’s evolving sound, the structure of Peart’s parts, and the unique configurations of his kits. Detailed, research-based diagrams chart the evolution of every drum set he used—documenting years of innovation in both performance and design.

The visual component is equally rich: dozens of photographs spanning three decades—many from the archives of Fin Costello and Andrew MacNaughtan—show Peart and his drums in vivid, intimate detail. Color reproductions of nearly every drum company advertisement featuring Neil add another layer to this historical record.

Written, transcribed, and meticulously researched by drummer, author, and educator Joe Bergamini—who also co-produced and appears on the DVD—and edited under Neil Peart’s direct supervision,Taking Center Stagestands as the most complete, accurate, and immersive documentation of Peart’s extraordinary journey as a live performer.