Session Drummer

Q: What's the biggest misconception about what you do?

A: That all drummers play the same. That all drums sound the same. That using programmed/sampled drums are easier and more sufficient. NOT TRUE

Q: What's your 'promise' to your clients?

A: I promise to deliver excellence in every way to meet their desired vision of the project.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: Creating something that makes people (including myself) smile. Figuring out the puzzle of a well crafted song.

Q: What questions do customers most commonly ask you? What's your answer?

A: Q: Can you play more fills? A: Sure!

Q: What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?

A: Make sure it's a good fit. Music, Business or otherwise.

Q: If you were on a desert island and could take just 5 pieces of gear, what would they be?

A: 1. Independent Drum Lab Flex Tuned Maple Drum Kit 2. Beier 1.5mm 6.5X14 Powder Coated Steel Snare Drum 3. Aquarian Drum Heads 4. Bosphorus 1600 Era Cymbals 5. Innovative Percussion Drumsticks

Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?

A: I've been doing this for over 20 years. I've been fortunate to have worked with so many artists from many different backgrounds at an early age. These experiences greatly educated me and truly helped mold me as a career musician.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: Nostalgic with modern innovations. Simple and effective.

Q: Which artist would you like to work with and why?

A: I love 90's pop/rock. Any artist from that era really but specifically some of the females... Alanis Morissette, Sarah McLachlan, Sheryl Crow. Just put me on stage for Lilith Fair!

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: If it sounds good, it is good!

Q: What type of music do you usually work on?

A: Pop. Rock. Country. Acoustic.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: Musical maturity. Leaving my ego out. Doing what's best for the client and their work.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: I'm a feeler and all about vibes. I don't just play parts... I fully submerge myself into the project. Similar to method acting, I like to become one with the music. I'll change instruments, rooms, lighting or even clothing if it leads to a better feel resulting in a better product. Whatever it takes to capture the appropriate energy of the song.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: 1. Understanding the clients wants, needs and ultimate vision for the project. 2. Auditioning drum sounds via my personal sample library. 3. Arrangement of drum parts via midi mapping. 4. Approval of parts from Artist, Producer and/or Engineer. 5. Recording of live drum parts. 6. Revisions (up to 3) 7. Editing by request

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: I have a home studio facility tailored for live drum recording. Ample space, professional sound proofing and a hefty microphone collection. Currently have a collection of 9 drum kits, 15 snare drums and 30 cymbals. Recording/Editing/Mixing with Logic and Pro Tools.

Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?

A: Trent Reznor, Radiohead, Steve Albini.

Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.

A: I arrange and perform drum parts for songs.