This episode features my conversation with Adam Bowman.

Based out of Guelph, Ontario, Adam is an accomplished drummer and respected educator known for his musicality and versatility across different genres. Throughout his career, Adam has toured extensively and contributed to numerous albums as a session player. In addition to his live and studio work, he is actively involved as an accompanist for modern and contemporary dance classes with IMAGEO Artworks and Dancetheatre David Earle. As an educator, Adam is currently the drum set instructor at the University of Guelph, and also a facilitator for several community organizations that focus on creative expression and mental wellbeing through music. In our conversation, we talk about how martial arts and the philosophies of Bruce Lee have inspired his approach to music and life. We also discuss the importance of living an artful life and despite the choices you have made in your life and career, that the bravest choice you can make is to change your mind. Follow Adam: https://www.adambowman.com https://www.instagram.com/adambowmanmusic/ https://www.facebook.com/adam.bowman.16

This episode features my conversation with drummer Mike Dawson. Based out of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Mike is the Chief Creative Officer for Drum Factory Direct and also the host of the popular Drum Candy podcast.

Prior to his current role with Drum Factory Direct, Mike was the Managing Editor for Modern Drummer magazine from 2004 - 2020, and along with Mike Johnston, was the co-host of the popular Modern Drummer Podcast. Mike maintains an active online presence and is highly regarded for his expertise in everything from drum gear to education.

In our conversation, we talk about the importance of versatility, the essential characteristics of professionalism required to navigate a career in the music industry, and Mike’s passion for creative explorations. Photo by Jordan Bellotti Follow Mike: https://www.instagram.com/mikedawsondrums/ https://www.youtube.com/@MikeDawsonDrums https://www.facebook.com/mike.dawson.545 Drum Candy Podcast https://www.drumfactorydirect.com

This episode features my conversation with drummer Paul Wertico. Based out of Chicago, Paul is highly regarded for his fearless approach, artistry and musicality. He is best known for being the legendary Pat Metheny’s drummer for 18 years, during which he recorded multiple Grammy award winning albums. Paul is a bandleader and prolific composer who has released numerous projects under his own name. Frequently sought after for his creativity, his work can also be heard on hundreds of recordings with many artists. As an educator, Paul has been teaching privately for over 45 years and is also an Associate Professor of Jazz Studies at Roosevelt University’s Chicago College of the Performing Arts.

In our conversation, we talk about how his curiosity to explore different musical genre’s has inspired his creative approach. We also discuss his work with the Pat Metheny Group and how he uses his personal experiences to inspire others to get outside their comfort zone, allowing them to find their own creative voice. Follow Paul: https://www.paulwertico.com https://www.instagram.com/paulwertico/ https://www.facebook.com/paulwertico1

This episode features my conversation with drummer Alphonso Young Jr.

Based out of Virginia, Alphonso is highly regarded for his versatility and musicality.

Throughout his 50 year career, he has worked with numerous high profile jazz artists, but is best know for his work with the Eric Byrd Trio, of which he has been a member for over 20 years.

Alphonso is a music teacher with the Loudoun County Public Schools and is also currently on faculty at Shenandoah University & Gettysburg College where he is a leading authority on drum set performance. In our conversation, we talk about how he adapts traditional methods to develop contemporary approaches when learning the fundamentals. We also talk about the importance of incorporating musical applications into each lesson and why it’s essential to be open to learning as much from your students as they do from you. Follow Alphonso: https://www.instagram.com/alyoungjr/ https://ericbyrdtrio.com/trio/alphonso-young-jr/ Email: ayoung@su.edu

This episode features my conversation with Andy Zildjian, who is the President and CEO of Sabian Cymbals.

Based out of Meductic, New Brunswick, the Sabian Cymbal company was established in 1981 by Andy’s father, Robert Zildjian. The company is highly regarded for its artistry and dedication to craftsmanship, focusing on traditional manufacturing processes and continuing to innovate to meet the demand of their consumers. In our conversation, we talk about legacy and how family dynamics lead to the formation of the Sabian Cymbal company. We also discuss the manufacturing processes, how they adapt to create new product lines and why it’s important to develop and promote education. Follow Sabian: https://sabian.com https://www.instagram.com/sabiancymbals/ https://www.facebook.com/SABIANCymbals Sabian Education Network

This episode features my conversation with drummer Jake Sommers.

Originally from New York and currently based in Nashville, Jake is highly regarded for his versatility and dynamic playing. He is best known as the touring drummer for country superstar Luke Combs, which is a position he has held since 2015.

Discovering his passion for music at a young age, Jake went on to study music at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia where he earned his Music Performance Degree in 2013. After graduating, Jake moved to Nashville to pursue a professional music career. He worked regularly on the Broadway circuit in downtown Nashville, seeking out any opportunity to perform. In our conversation, we talk about the importance of building genuine relationships through networking in order to establish your career. We also discuss why it’s essential to be prepared for every opportunity and maintain a positive attitude.

Follow Jake http://www.jakesommersdrums.com https://www.instagram.com/jakesommers7/ https://www.facebook.com/jake.sommrs7 Photo Credit - David Bergman

This episode features my conversation with Tim Carman.

Tim is an accomplished drummer and respected educator known for his musicality and versatility across a variety of genres. Growing up in the Boston area and currently based in Denver, his passion for drums started at a young age. He studied with several renowned teachers, honing his skills and exploring various drumming techniques.

Throughout his career, Tim has toured extensively and contributed to numerous albums as both a bandleader and session player. In 2020, Tim ’s work earned him a nomination for Session Musician of the Year by the Boston Music Awards. Currently, Tim is an active member of the bands Parlor Greens & Canyon Lights. As an educator, Tim is dedicated to inspiring his students through his approach to developing musicality and creative application of practical methods. He is also the author of 5 books including the highly regarded Haynes-ISM & Philly-ISM methods. In our conversation, we talk about how studying with some legendary teachers influenced his musical approach and perspective as an educator. We also discuss the concepts behind his method books and the obstacles of staying true to your creative path while finding balance in your life.

Follow Tim https://timcarmandrums.com https://www.instagram.com/tcarmandrums/ https://www.facebook.com/tim.carman.92 Parlor Greens https://www.parlorgreens.com/ https://www.instagram.com/parlorgreens Canyon Lights https://www.canyonlightsband.com https://www.instagram.com/canyonlightsband

This episode features my conversation with Paul Quin. Based out of Tampa, Florida, Paul is a highly regarded lawyer and professional drummer who has dedicated his career to educating creative artists in navigating the industry.

Born and raised just outside Liverpool, England, Paul began his career as a drummer at the age of 13 when he starting working with his older sister who was a professional singer. He then went on to establish a freelance career working with numerous bands in the UK.

It was through these experiences that he discovered his interest in learning about the business and legal rights for artists which inspired him to pursue a career in law. In our conversation, we talk about the importance of following your passion, networking by being kind and respectful to build genuine relationships, and why it’s essential to seek out professional advice in order to protect yourself and your creative work. Follow Paul: https://www.facebook.com/paul.quin https://www.saxongilmore.com/attorneys/paul-m-quin/