I began drumming (as the last instrument available in the band) when I was in 5th grade.
Over the next two years I learned the basics of snare drumming and reading music. I then received my first drum set and took private lessons with a bar room drummer. He taught me all he knew. So in 8th grade I played on stage with a little jazz band, played in marching band (tenor), and played in orchestra.
“I loved playing in the jazz band and performed a big solo my senior year. ”
Then there was high school. From my Sophomore year up I was the main drummer and played 1st chair in orchestra and marching and concert band. I was in honor band for three years (second chair) and played in the local symphonic orchestra. I loved playing in the jazz band and performed a big solo my senior year. I was awarded with the Outstanding Senior in Band award, and the Directors Award in orchestra. Next was college. Serious music and a lot of competition, but my second year was great as I was first chair in the marching band. That's also when I met my wife as she was a dancing girl in the Red Line that danced in front of the band.
Many years passed with occasional drumming with different groups. An exceptional moment in my drumming career happened when I was asked to play in my church’s praise team. I played in the church praise team in Tehachapi for over 10 years (wow!) and also played in the local orchestra. After moving to Colorado, I continued playing in the church, and was on the Woodmen Valley Chapel praise team for three and half years. I now play on the praise team at Academy Christian Church.
Music is such a wonderful way to express yourself in praise to God and in expressing joy. I am on a journey to improve and become a much better musician.
““A drummer is never late, nor is he early.
He hits his count precisely when he means to.””
