World-renowned master craftsman drum builder and designer, Joe Montineri passed away on April 24, 2024. There was a collective grief felt around the drum world as news of his death spread through the print and online media. Many famous drummers play his drums, with many stating that their personal favorite snare drum is a ‘Montineri’. I spoke with Joe many times over the years when he set up at the annual CT Vintage Drum Show. I’ve purchased a few snares in different depths from him, and have always been amazed at how great they sound and feel. Although it is indeed a sad time, Joe has left a legacy behind which will last forever. I extend my sincerest condolences to his family and friends… God Bless Joe Montineri.
What a great guy! Joe will be missed by all of us drummers that knew him. Rest in peace Joe.
-- Bun E. Carlos
Basically the Obi-Wan Kenobi of building and making drums sound better… in fact, his name was/is synonymous with custom drum making.
Who ever said that a Drum is a drum, is a drum… didn’t know Mr. Montineri.
-- Herman L. Matthews
Joseph Paul Montineri
March 23, 1951 – April 24, 2024
Joe was born in Hartford, Connecticut and was the son to Sonia (Denalsky) and Paul Montineri. He grew up in Bloomfield, CT and graduated from Bloomfield High School in 1969 where he played varsity soccer and was a percussionist in the school band. He attended Hartt College of Music, studying percussion.
Joe was a do-it-yourself, renowned master drum builder and founder of Joe Montineri Custom Drums whose fine sound is heard worldwide on countless music recordings. He graced stages with various bands, his handcrafted drums providing the backbone for countless beats. Joe’s passion transcended crafting exquisite instruments; he became a constant source of knowledge, sharing his expertise freely and fostering a strong sense of community through his music and his craft, making him a friend to all he met.
Joe is survived by his daughter, Samantha (Patrick) and her mother and former wife, Sandra; his sister, Felicia (Maryellen); his brother, Paul (Patsi); his nephews, Dominick and Dillon and his grandchildren, Avery and Maddox. Joe was predeceased by his son, Joey.
Family and friends are invited to gather for a memorial service on May 11, 2024 at 11am at South United Methodist Church, 1226 Main St, Manchester, CT 06040.
Joe was a genius, pure and simple: A brilliant craftsman and visionary creative artist. That said, he never turned anyone away who asked him to share his insight. During my time at the Artist and Marketing helm of Pearl, I could always confide in him. When starting The Darwin Drum Company, Joe was a trusted confidant. And when becoming the founding President of Mapex USA, Joe offered his expertise to me, no questions asked. Music has lost one of the most important figures of the 20th and 21st Centuries. May your soul fly high in the heavens Joe. Touch the sky with your love of grace and beauty.
-- Ken Austin
If the modern era of boutique drum making has a father, it’s Joe Montineri. His snare drums in the ‘80s were the first exposure many had to the idea of custom drum building.
—Phil Hood, owner and editor DRUM! magazine
If I rang Joe or he rang me, it was going to be an hour long conversation with lots of laughter and lots of griping and bitching - all very enjoyable - Joe knew his stuff. Joe ordered one of my DrumWrapper machines when he was working with Keller products. My favorite Joe Montineri quote, ‘Hey man, I just bought 100 sheets of dayglo fluorescent green wrap from Delmar. How many do you want?’. HA! Job well done, Joe, and life well lived.
- - George Lawrence
Thank you Joe Montineri, Rest In Peace!
