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  • This episode features my conversation with renowned drummer & educator Jim Riley.Originally growing up in Boston, Jim went on to study at the University of North Texas where he received his degree in Music Education.

    In 1997, he moved to Nashville and established himself as one of the most respected and versatile drummers there. For 20 years, Jim was the drummer and bandleader for the multi-platinum group, Rascal Flatts and has worked with many established artists throughout his career. He is currently an Adjunct Professor of Drumset Studies at Belmont University.

    Jim is internationally recognized as a clinician and educator and in 2007, he established his Drum Dojo school where he inspires and teaches students of all levels to develop their skills and passion for music. He is also the author of 3 books including the award winning method The Survival Guide For The Modern Drummer.

    In our conversation, we talk about why it’s important to believe in your potential and not be afraid to face challenges. We also discuss the value of a well rounded education and what the definition of success means to him. Follow Jim:https://jimrileymusic.comhttps://www.facebook.com/jimrileythedrummerhttps://www.instagram.com/jimrileymusic/

  • This episode features my conversation with drummer Davide DiRenzo.

    Based out of Toronto, Davide is highly regarded as one of Canada’s most versatile and in-demand drummers. He has performed and recorded around the world with a wide range of artists including Cassandra Wilson, jackSoul, Tom Cochrane, Tomi Swick, Holly Cole, David Wilcox, Molly Johnson and many more.

    In addition to his extensive studio experience working with some of the world’s top artists, Davide also works out of his home studio, where he records and sends drum tracks to artists and producers all over the globe.

    In our conversation, we talk about the role positive studio etiquette plays assuring that each session runs effectively. We also discuss why it’s essential to maintain a growth mindset and explore each new learning opportunity to let go of our own self doubt and embrace our potential.

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  • This episode features part two of my conversation with drummer Nate Morton.

    On this episode, we continue our discussion about his experiences on The Voice and Rockstar series. We also talk about his perspectives around finding success in the music industry and working to find balance in your life.

    If you haven’t had the opportunity yet, be sure to go back and check out episode 39 which features part one of our interview.Follow Nate:https://natemorton.comhttps://www.facebook.com/natemortondrumshttps://www.instagram.com/n8drumz/

  • This episode features part one of my two part conversation with drummer Nate Morton.

    Based out of Los Angeles, he is the highly regarded drummer for the house band on NBC’s The Voice. Previously, Nate was the drummer for the reality series Rockstar:INXS & Rockstar: Supernova, and was also part of the house band for the Bonnie Hunt Show.

    Nate has also worked with such diverse artists as Paul Stanley, Cher, Vanessa Carlson, Natalie Cole, Miley Cyrus, Madonna and many others.

    As a graduate of the Berklee College Of Music in Boston, he has become a respected educator and loves to inspire others to find joy in the pursuit of music.

    In our conversation, we discuss how he found his passion for music early in life and how his determination to become a professional musician has lead him along different paths that allowed him to establish a successful music career.

    We also talk about why it’s essential to value and find joy in the opportunities that are available to you.

    Follow Nate:https://natemorton.comhttps://www.facebook.com/natemortondrumshttps://www.instagram.com/n8drumz/

  • This episode features my conversation with drummer David Abbruzzese.

    Growing up in Texas, David discovered his passion for music early on and began to develop his skills as a drummer through his work with many local bands.

    In 1991, through a recommendation from drummer Matt Chamberlain, David went to Seattle to audition for Pearl Jam, who were just getting ready to release their debut album.

    He became a member of the band and held that position from 1991-1994, during which time, he recorded the iconic albums VS and Vitalogy.

    After working with Pearl Jam, David continued to establish himself as a freelance drummer and has gone on to work with multiple artists showcasing his creative and versatile approach to the drums.

    In our conversation, we talk about his early inspirations and how his passion for music helped to develop his creative approach.

    We discuss the process of recording the VS and Vitalogy albums and what it was like working with renowned producer Brendan O’Brien.

    We also talk about what he’s been up to since Pearl Jam and why it’s essential to appreciate all the opportunities that are presented to you.

    Follow David:https://www.facebook.com/david.abbruzzese

    https://www.instagram.com/daveabbruzzese/

  • This episode features my conversation with drummer Dave Patel.

    Actively involved in the Toronto music scene for over 30 years as a professional drummer, Dave has played on over seventy albums, many jingles, and has worked extensively with numerous artists in different genres demonstrating his ability to adapt to any musical situation.

    He was a student at both York University and Humber College, and studied privately with Jim Blackley, Paul DeLong, Vito Rezza among others.

    Dave is also an in demand educator who has taught privately in the Toronto area for over 20 years. Currently, he is a faculty member at the renowned Metalworks Institute where he is actively involved in their Music Performance & Technology Program.

    In our conversation, we talk about the importance of experiencing live music situations because you never know where that inspiration will take you. We also discuss his approaches to teaching and why it’s essential to not get caught up in self deprecation, and to remain committed to following your desired path.Follow Dave:

    https://www.instagram.com/davepateldrums/

    https://www.facebook.com/david.patel.794

    https://www.youtube.com/@davepateldrums9781

    https://metalworksinstitute.com/faculty/dave-patel/

  • This episode features my conversation with renowned Canadian drummer Ted Warren.

    Born and raised in Saskatchewan and now currently residing in Southern Ontario, Ted discovered his passion for music at a young age. In addition to becoming inspired by the music of his generation, he also discovered an interest in Jazz. Ted went on to study Music at Montreal’s Mcgill University, and received a certificate in Jazz Studies from St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish, Nova Scotia.

    As an active member of Canada’s jazz scene and the recipient of The Jazz Report’s “Drummer of the year” award in 1996, Ted has built a solid reputation as a versatile drummer performing and recording with the who’s who of the Canadian Jazz scene including the legendary Rob McConnell and The Boss Brass big band.

    He is also a composer and fronts his own quartet, Ted’s Warren Commission, which released their debut CD, First Time Caller, to critical acclaim in 2004 and followed that up with the albums Songs For Doug and 2016’s The Great Regina Pizza Debate.

    Ted is a highly regarded teacher, clinician and adjudicator and has taught in the Jazz Studies programs at both Humber College in Toronto and Mohawk College in Hamilton, Ontario.

    In our conversation, we talk about the importance of embracing your musical ideas and not allowing your own self doubt to get in your way. We also discuss his approaches to teaching and why the pursuit of learning and exploring new concepts is essential in order to find joy in your own creative endeavours.Follow Ted here:

    https://www.facebook.com/ted.warren1

    https://www.instagram.com/warren.ted/

    https://www.patreon.com/drumjoy

    https://www.youtube.com/@twarren24

    http://trapdted.blogspot.com

  • This episode features my conversation with drummer/educator Dave Stark.

    Born and raised in New York and now residing in Florida, Dave is an in demand freelance drummer, educator and clinician.

    He began playing drums at the age of 7 then went on to study with legendary teachers such as Dom Famularo, Jim Chapin, Gary Chaffee and many more.

    After attending Berklee College of Music in Boston on a scholarship, Dave established his career back in New York where he became a first call session artist. He also began a very successful teaching career and has built a worldwide reputation as a highly sought after educator.

    Currently, Dave is the President of the Florida Chapter of the Percussive Arts Society and also serves internationally as a board member on the Education Committee.

    In our conversation, we talk about how the most profound lessons learned from a mentor are the life lessons and experiences shared. We also discuss the importance of building genuine relationships and how we each can define success in this industry. Follow Dave here:

    https://davestarkdrumminglab.com

    https://www.facebook.com/DaveStarkDrums

    https://www.instagram.com/davestarkdrums/

  • This episode features my conversation with drummer and educator, Dave Lewitt.

    Growing up on Long Island, NY, Dave found his inspiration from listening to the music of the fusion and progressive rock era in the 1970’s where he discovered his passion to become a drummer.

    He pursued his studies at The Conservatory of Music at Purchase College in New York. After graduation, he went on to establish a professional career as a freelance drummer and educator.

    Currently, in addition to maintaining a steady roster of students, he is also on staff at Purchase College’s Conservatory Of Dance program where he is actively involved in working with the modern dance program as an accompanist.

    Dave is also the author of 3 drum method books including his most recent, The Odd Time Drumming book.

    In our conversation, we talk about his work in the Conservatory Of Dance program and how it involves a creative approach and adaptation to the challenges presented. We also discuss his experiences as a freelance musician and why he has chosen to focus on education at this stage of his career.Follow Dave at: https://www.facebook.com/dave.lewitt

    https://www.youtube.com/user/davelewitt

  • On this episode, I welcome back drummer Jamie Wollam for his second appearance on my podcast.

    Best know as the drummer for the iconic band, Tears For Fears, a position he has held since 2010, Jamie is highly regarded for his impeccable and passionate live performances and creativity as an in demand session musician.

    I first had the opportunity to interview Jamie last year as he was preparing to head out on the highly succesful Tears For Fears summer tour.

    It was a pleasure to reconnect for a follow up conversation to reflect back on those experiences and find out what he’s been up to since the tour finished.

    In this interview, we talk about his personal journey through the different phases of his career. We also discuss the importance of maintaining a creative voice as a sideman, while respecting the creative processes of the artists you work with. We also get into our perspectives on education and why it’s essential to maintain humility in order to establish and define your place in this industry.

    Photo by Emily Rath Orzabal

    Follow Jamie here:https://www.facebook.com/jamie.wollam https://www.instagram.com/jameswollam/

  • This episode features my conversation with drummer Jeff Salem.

    Based out of Brampton, Ontario, Jeff is an internationally recognized drummer and educator who’s resume includes working with artists such as Fist, Sword, Saints & Sinners, Lee Aaron, Randy Bachman, Canadian Idol winner Kalan Porter, guitarist Rob Tardik and many more. He is currently the drummer for the renowned tribute act, Epic Eagles.

    In addition to being in demand as a drummer, he is actively involved with music education in many school boards performing percussion workshops and clinics to students of all grades and also maintains a roster of private students.

    Jeff has written a number of instructional books including the book “Finding Success As An Individual Artist” which is a guide to developing and maintaining a successful career in the arts.

    Jeff is also the owner of the Salem’s Lott Scary Hot Sauces Company.

    In our conversation, we discuss the importance of diversifying and building relationships in order to maintain a successful career and also why it’s important to assess and establish your value in each situation you encounter.Follow Jeff Here: https://drumsinu.com https://www.instagram.com/salemdrum/Finding Success As An Individual Artist https://drumsinu.com/buy.htmlSalem's Lott Scary Hot Sauces https://www.salemslotthotsauces.com

  • This episode features my conversation with Boston based drummer Dave DiCenso. Known for his versatility and his dynamic mastery of the drum set, he began his studies at a young age under the direction of his father, renowned educator Dick DiCenso.

    Dave went on to establish a successful career working as a sideman for various artists in many different genres, in addition to focusing on his own musical projects.

    Dave is a highly regarded educator, and has been on faculty at the prestigious Berklee College Of Music for the last 30 years. He is also the author of 3 highly regarded books, with the most recent being “Fluid Fills & Musical Phrasing”.

    In our conversation, we talk about his personal journey through the different phases of his career. We also discuss the joys and challenges of finding artistic satisfaction as a sideman and why he has chosen to focus on education at this stage of his career.



    Follow Dave at https://davedicenso.com/

  • On this episode, my guest is award-winning drummer, author and educator Claus Hessler.

    Based in Germany, Claus is highly regarded for his mastery of Moeller Technique and Open-Handed Playing approach and has achieved recognition for his creative and innovative drumming concepts.

    Claus continues to be an in demand and respected educator and has published 6 books, including the award winning Camp Duty Update and his most recent book “Taladiddle”, which is a study of combining the rhythmic language of India with a traditional snare drum rudiment approach.

    In our conversation, we talk about why it’s essential to always take a musical approach when learning to play the drums. In addition to covering many of the concepts in his various books, we also discuss the challenges of navigating online media options to learning without having a proper teacher to guide you.

    Follow Claus at https://claushessler.com & https://openmindeddrumming.com

    Photo Credit -Justine Janik

  • This episode features my conversation with Rob Wallis. Rob is the co-founder, along with Paul Seigel, of DCI Music, that has produced many classic drum education video releases which are considered to be essential viewing.

    Rob went on to establish Hudson Music and is highly regarded as a leader in the drum publishing industry.

    Although best known for his contribution to drum education, Rob is still an active drummer on the scene and finds passion through remaining a vital part of the drum community.

    In our conversation, we reflect back on many of the classic projects in which he has been involved. We also discuss how the drum education industry has evolved, and get a preview of some of the amazing upcoming projects that Hudson Music has in the works.Follow Rob at https://www.facebook.com/rob.wallis.142

    Check out Hudson Music https://hudsonmusic.com

  • On this episode, my guest is Daniel Glass, who is an award-winning drummer, author, historian and educator based in New York City. Highly regarded as an authority on classic American drumming and the evolution of American Popular Music, Daniel is best known for his time spent as a member of the retro swing group Royal Crown Revue.

    Daniel has recorded and performed all over the world with a diverse roster of top artists. Since 2011, he has been the house drummer every Monday night at New York’s legendary Birdland Jazz Club.

    We talk about the concept of using deliberate practice in your learning process and also discuss how his online course “Finding Your Golden Groove” focuses on learning why motions are the best strategy for developing your groove.Follow Daniel at https://danielglass.com

    (Photo by Bob Campbell)

  • This episode features Part Two of a roundtable discussion with Matthew Crouse and Zack Albetta from the Working Drummer podcast.

    With over 400 episodes and counting, the Working Drummer Podcast has become an essential source for those interested in what it’s like to maintain a career as professional drummer.

    In our conversation, we continue our discussion about assessing and knowing your value as a artist and finding joy and a good life balance as you establish the career paths that you have chosen to follow.

    Be sure to go back and check out episode 26 which features part one of our conversation first if you haven’t had the opportunity yet.

    Working Drummer Podcast: https://www.workingdrummer.netFollow Matthew here: https://www.matthewcrouse.netFollow Zack here: https://www.instagram.com/zack.albetta/

  • This episode features a roundtable discussion with Matthew Crouse and Zack Albetta from the Working Drummer podcast.

    With over 400 episodes and counting, the Working Drummer Podcast has become an essential source for those interested in what it’s like to maintain a career as professional drummer.

    Renowned for their in depth interviews with an emphasis on telling the stories of the artists who may not always be a household name, their unique approach has developed a loyal audience longing for honest stories and perspectives about making a living as a musician today.

    As this discussion ran for 2 hours, I have split this episode into 2 parts. Check out Part One of my conversation with Matthew Crouse and Zack Albetta.Working Drummer Podcast: https://www.workingdrummer.netFollow Matthew here: https://www.matthewcrouse.netFollow Zack here: https://www.instagram.com/zack.albetta/

  • On this episode, my guest is Dr. Pamela Seraphine. Dr. Pamela, as she is affectionately known, is a neuroscientist and mental health consultant recognized for her extensive expertise in trauma recovery and brain health.

    Beyond her contributions to neuroscience, Dr. Pamela is also an accomplished world percussionist. Combining her scientific knowledge with her artistic expression, Dr. Pamela’s study of music's impact on the brain inspires others to enhance their overall well-being through the power of rhythm.

    In our interview, we talk about her passion for drumming and the setbacks she encountered which lead her down the path to become a neuroscientist. We also discuss why it’s essential to stay committed to following the right therapy path to overcome challenges and achieve all the things we are capable of in our lives.

    Follow Dr. Pamela at https://www.drpamelaseraphine.com

  • On this episode, my guest is drummer Glenn Milchem. Glenn is a Toronto based musician who for over 40 years has performed and recorded with countless artists in a variety of genres. Glenn is probably best known as a member of the iconic Canadian band Blue Rodeo, which he joined in December 1991.

    Glenn is also a singer and songwriter. In addition to his 2019 solo acoustic album “Fates Conspire”, he fronted his own band The Swallows as the lead singer, guitarist and composer for more than a decade.

    In our interview, we talk about his experiences as a member of Blue Rodeo over the years. We also discuss the creative process of the many different projects he has been involved in, and why it’s important to continue to learn and adapt as you establish your career.

    Follow Glenn at https://www.facebook.com/glenn.milchem & https://www.instagram.com/glennmilchem/

  • On September 28, 2023, the drumming world lost a hero. Highly regarded as drumming’s Global Ambassador, Dom Famularo was a beacon of light in the music industry.

    Based out of Long Island, NY, Dom was a drummer, world renowned educator, motivational speaker, mentor and a friend.His passion and enthusiasm was infectious and everyone who was ever blessed to be in his presence was uplifted and inspired by him.

    Facing a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer over the last couple of years, Dom fought valiantly to overcome this disease just as he faced and overcame so many obstacles throughout his life.

    Even when things were really tough at times, he faced this challenge with a sense of grace. He devoted his attention to empower and encourage thousands who continued to reach out when they needed his guidance and support.

    I have gathered stories from many throughout the industry who’s lives were impacted by Dom. This tribute is a celebration of his legacy and to show the world just how he impacted our lives through his kindness and support. It is through their stories that I want to tell how much he affected all of us.

    Now, sit back and take some time to listen to only a few of the countless stories of some of the lives he impacted. Let’s allow Dom’s legacy to empower us to face and overcome our own obstacles, live our lives with passion, commit to always aspire to greatness, encourage each other, and always be kind.

    As Dom would always say… Onward and Upward!

    https://www.domfamularo.com