There has rarely been a time in my life where drums weren’t the focus. Since I could remember, drums were the only thing that mattered. I was surrounded by music since day one — I always had a pair of sticks in hand as a result. By the time I could walk, I started playing an old Premier set with a floor tom converted to a bass drum. I absorbed and mimicked everything I could, although I was particularly drawn to metal and fusion. When I hit 11, I began studying with a local jazz drummer, Gary Polyfak, who, over the next four years, was key in shaping my ability to interpret sheet music and transcribe.
For the last seven years, I have been gigging locally and along the east coast with various metal and rock bands, further developing my skills. Additionally, I have been doing session/freelance work and teaching lessons full-time with a program tailored for any player, at any skill level. My students range from the age of four all the way to 60, including hobbyists and professionals alike. Recently, I’ve had the pleasure of working with Jami Morgan — drummer of Grammy-nominated Pittsburgh hardcore metal outfit Code Orange, who I’ve helped brush up on his double bass technique and approach.
However, the stage and recording studio is where I feel most at home. My hardcore band, Settle for Nothing, has released two EPs and developed a loyal following in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas. I’ve also started a new Death Metal band with a local producer, Shane Mayer, where I plan on demonstrating the more intricate side of my playing. All of this is geared toward becoming a better, more well-rounded player. While I have been playing for nearly my entire life, I feel as though I’ve merely scratched the surface. Between my passion for drums and relentless drive to get better, I look forward to continuing my journey as a drummer.
