I have extensive experience across various music genres. I am a versatile drummer with a variety of skills and talents for touring, studio recording, and instructing students of all ages. Whether teaching a group or individual lessons, students arrive with a variety of musical and non-musical backgrounds. Each person is unique and has different goals they wish to achieve. Fundamentals are taught like reading music, snare rudiments, drum set techniques, & independence. Room is left for the student's questions and musical interests to be addressed. Playing to a click, playing drums to different music genres, percussion instruments, playing within a group, and soloing techniques are also taught.
While living in Japan at a very young age I was amazed by the sound and discipline of the Taiko drummers. A few years later, I began playing the drums while my family lived in the Philippines. There, I took lessons from a session musician, grasped the fundamentals of drumming and rhythm, learned to read music, listened and picked out grooves for specific songs and immersed myself in diverse musical styles. Over the years, my passion for percussion has grown, leading me to hone my skills through private lessons, teaching many students, performing in numerous bands and churches, as well as collaborating on special client projects and seasonal orchestras.
Some of my past drumming highlights include touring eight countries in Europe. I had the honor of opening for the Christian rock group REZ Band in Stockholm, Sweden. I've also had the privilege of jamming with the Jessy Dixon band in North Carolina, playing alongside gospel singer Miss Lillie Knauls in Alaska, and even jammed on a few songs and played golf with former lead singer of PETRA, Greg X. Volz. Additionally, I recorded with the group “Still” in Anchorage, collaborated with the Hammerhead Rose Band at the Cascade Blues Association, performed with violinist Brian “Eli” Eliason in Portland, the Brian Moore Project in Oregon, recorded with Kenny Ray Chenevert and played locally and toured across the Northwest with the Michael Dickes Band. I have also participated and played drums & percussion in several orchestras for special musicals and Christmas performances.
In addition to original music from regional bands, I thoroughly enjoy the creative aspects of funk, R&B, blues, Latin and jazz/rock fusion. Some of my favorite artists include Tower of Power, Jazz Funk Soul, Jeff Lorber, Rick Braun, The Yellowjackets, Euge Groove, Bela Fleck & The Flecktones, Spyro Gyra, Lettuce, Dave Matthews Band, Harry Connick Jr., Santana, Poncho Sanchez, and Maceo Parker.
As a dedicated worship musician, I have played in dozens of churches across the United States and played for special worship nights, community outreaches, Sunday morning services, unique Christmas performances and worship for two universities. I have worked with amazing song writers and worship leaders like Duff Rowden and Kyle Rasmussen and played in major regional denomination conferences in Oregon, Washington and Alaska. Currently, I am a contract drummer with the Worship Support Network and play with the Ronnie James Band at local events like Hope Fest.
Studied under three studio and performing artists over the years.
Is your usual drummer out for a couple of weeks? Do you need a sit in drummer for a gig or two? Just let me know.
I usually can add percussion or other creative elements while playing the drums. I can also implement percussion as stand-alone accompaniment.
Recording experience with various artists collaborating to bring original songs to life.
Experience with regional US tours and in Europe playing in eight countries.
Are your drums sounding bad or looking disheveled? We can change heads, properly tune, maintain, and bring your drum kit back to life.
Is a Vendor with
Music Tutor with
The Drum Pro, LLC
