TheNeonDrummer

Description:

Screen Name:

TheNeonDrummer

Sex:

M

Age:

61

Studio Musician:

Yes

Level Of Commitment:

Very Committed

Years Playing Music:

50

Gigs Played:

Over 100

Tend to Practice:

2-3 times per week

Available to Gig:

1 time(s) per week

Most available:

Days

John Ortiz, Wichita, KS is The Neon Drummer. Or whatever else you want to call me....Most Recently Dummer For The NEONS a Wichita, KS area oldies, classic rock band since around 1993. I'm a proud Marine Corps Vietnam Veteran 67-68. My favorite gig with The Neons was to play the annual Veterans Reunion at El Dorado lake.
Don't let my years fool you. I'm still playing as strong as ever. Played a full year of gigs in 08 with The Neons that included outdoor concerts and special events. Have since "retired" from The Neons but still have many gigs left in me. Hoping to find the right environment to do what I love most when it comes to music. That is, get comfortable on my kit and do what I do best. Drop me a line on aol. My screen name is Theneondrummer.

Influences:

My influences will date me beginning with that wind up toy rabbit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5TBLQQAPS8c in those battery commercials but moved on to Ray Charles' and his earliest hits. Drummers such as Sandy Nelson, later Danny Seraphine of Chicago formed the basis of my style along with the Stones Charlie Watts. I know, what a leap but I enjoy playing a broad range of styles and music generes. Some favorites music I enjoy playing; Santana, Led Zeppelin, Kansas, Beatles, Rolling Stones, Motown groups, much more. I continue to listen and learn from today's newest drummers both recorded material and live perfromances in area clubs and other venues. Never too old to learn from all talented drummers both old and young. Carl, drummer for Lady and The Tramps comes to mind as one of those up and coming younger influences.

Equipment List:

Since I am collector or vintage drums and percussion instruments I own around twenty full kits and individual snares ranging from Slingerland, Ludwig, Rogers and too many others. I also have my own collection of cymbals and other assessories. I provide my own vocal, persussion mics, stands., etc. I mostly practice quietly on a Yamaha electric kit in my basement. Keeps me in good terms with neighbors and family.

Audio/Video Downloads

1. The Letter.mp3
2. Venus.mp3
3. Splish Splash.mp3