SEEKING
Drums, Trumpet, Flute, Other.ABOUT
Growing up in up-state New York, at the very early age of 8,I started my first percussion/Drum studies in Washingtonville New York at Thomas' House Of Music. Performing at this early age with Numerous Fife & Drum Corps. Gave me the grounding of a Rudimental percussionist I would use through-out my life. After being the recipient of the 'John Phillips Sousa Award" in 1979, clearly steered me to my music path in life and moving on to study at "Berklee College Of Music". Then on to study classical at Long Island University C.W. Post. Performing Arts Center. On the road in my early 20's with a very successful "Rock-A-Billy' Band, Squeaky Clean, That went on to Perform on Star Search. Still performing in Drum Corps., was awarded New York State Drum Corp. Champ 1989-92. Freelancing and as a studio musician for headliners such as Lou Rawls, Jim Chapin, Brian Setzer and performing with the Washington Redskins Drum Line , 2006-2010,..Has given me a well rounded genre of music to hone my improvisational skills. Now residing on the beaches of SW Florida, I perform various venues from Blues, Latin Jazz, Reggae and a few Opera productions when in town. Always looking for new musicians and artists to collaborate and work with, I can be reached at 904-Three Nine two-Four Seven Zero Seven. Or my E/Mail at DrumSgtMST at G Mail DOT COM - Current Projects - Artistic Director & C.F.O. - Old City Drum Corps - .OldCityDrum ./OldCityDrumCorps Director & Founder - West African Drum Circles of Saint Augustine-LLC - ./WestAfricanDrumCircles
- Screen name:
- Michael Scott Thomas
- Member since:
- Aug 26 2013
- Active within 1 week
- Level of commitment:
- Very Committed
- Years playing music:
- 45
- Gigs played:
- Over 100
- Tend to practice:
- More than 3 times per week
- Available to gig:
- 4-5 nights a week
- Most available:
- Mornings
Influences
My music influences are widely varied from Latin Jazz, Carlos Dividip Santana, Gato Barbieri to Steely Dan. Mr. Steven Gadd has always been a major influence in my studies and performance. His improvisational skills and unique techniques have steered me down the path of always innovating and keeping an open mind when collaborating with various musicians and artists. Studying with Jim Chapin in the early 80's has honed my skills in poly-rhythms and total syncopation. That was a Blast! Always grounding my drumming with early Rudimental basics, I also apply Swiss rudiments when applicable. Taught to me by Mr. John Pratt and Mr. Harold Green of the "West Point Hell Cats". When relocating to D.C. in the late 90's I've had the privilege and honor of studying and collaborating with Col. George Carroll of the French Militia Army. As well rounded as I seem to be, I will always be looking for new and innovating musicians, to collaborate with, and perform various musical genres. Rock-On....Rock-Out....And Do That Thang.....!
Instrument experience:
- Drums:
- Expert
- Other Percussion:
- Expert
- Background Singer:
- Moderate
EQUIPMENT
Studio Rig Includes but is NOT limited to: 1982 Black Pearl Diamond Slingerland Kit w/ Remo Roto Tom and Mini LP Timbales - Asst Zildjian Cymbals 22' Heavy Ride with various sizes for different applications. 20's-18'- 2 16'-20' Sizzler and a few Splashes. A Complete Trap and Hand percussion assortment, various Vibra Slaps, Tree Bells, Maraca's Etc. Latin Percussive Include Quinto Congas, Timbales and asst. Bongos. A second small Tama Kit Is used for smaller venues and festivals. ALL equipment and PA Systems are Gator Cased and approved for FAA Flights and Travel. I have access to Quads and 4pc. Tympani when Needed. AND....the proud owner of an Original 1968 Mint COOPERMAN FIELD DRUM. This can be heard on my DEMO.
