I started learning Brazilian percussion in college in Wisconsin and decided to go see for myself in Brazil. We spent a month in Rio, a month in Salvador, and a month in Recife. I took classes and lessons in each place and ended up performing in Carnaval with a band.

Cuban music was my first exposure to “world music” and the first folkloric music that I studied really hard. It wasn’t until 2017 that I finally made it down to the island for a week of hanging out with the amazing Cuban people. I went with my wifey and a group of friends from college. We explored Havana, saw tons of amazing music, and took lessons with José Eladio Amat Medina and Jean Roberto Figueroa (Klimax).

I started accompanying West African dance classes some time around 2004 and became connected with teachers in Guinea and Mali, West Africa. I finally went to the source to learn more in 2010-2011. I spent time in Conakry, Guinea with Mandjou Mara, and Bamako, Mali with Abdoul Doumbia.

I had an opportunity to sub for my friend Chris Sutherland on the National Tour of “the Notebook” in June of 2026. It was a great opportunity to play all sorts of percussion - there’s no drumset part in the show!

Instrumentation: Timpani, Concert Bass Drum, Tam Tam, Chimes, Crotales, Vibraphone, Glockenspiel, Roto-Sound, Triangle, Tambourine, 2 Toms, Cajón (mounted), Shaker, Cymbals, Porch Board (foot trigger).