Born and raised in San Francisco, my drumming journey began in the early 1960's largely inspired by the arrival of the British Invasion. The desire to play the drums was reinforced by the exciting changes in the music and culture of that era. I was able to move from a practice pad to my first drum set in 1967. Soon thereafter I began playing in bands. Over the next couple years one quintet played numerous venues in and around the city including the venerable Fillmore West. We also recorded at the highly regarded Golden State Records. The following years included a number of different groups. By the mid 1970's I took a break from music to attend college/grad school, begin a career in science/research (Publications) and start a family. During the early 1990's I returned to drumming, studying for two years with the late polyrhythm master Peter Magadini. I then resumed playing with number of blues and jam bands. I eventually joined a cover band and with them, spent the next fourteen years gigging around the Bay Area. After leaving the cover band world, my focus was on playing original music with a wide variety of singer/songwriters, professional musicians, and former touring and recording musicians. I used this time to explore a range of genres which included rock, blues, Americana, funk, country, and jazz. The experience has led me to today and my latest project. A group of veteran musicians playing original compositions as well as jazz and jazz fusion covers. I also continue to try to improve my playing with periodic lessons from drummer/producer Jimmy Hobson.
Currently play Gretsch USA Custom drums (2019 build) with a vintage 1959 Ludwig chrome over brass Supraphonic snare drum.
Cymbals include a mix of Istanbul (Agop, Memhet, & Pre-split era), and Sabian.
Hardware is a mix of Ludwig Atlas pro, Yamaha, and Tama.
Roland TD 17kvx e-kit for low volume practice
