Between 1969 and 1971 my teacher Ed Shaughnessy introduced me to the music of drummer Tony Williams. He also made me aware of Elvin Jones, Indian music, and how to become a professional musician and lifelong learner. When the Tonight Show moved to Burbank, California Ed left for L.A. so I began my studies with Sonny Igoe.

When I became a member of the NORAD band, fellow drummer Skip Shaffer would transcribe Tony Williams’ charts for which further enhanced my knowledge of Tony’s awesome drumming. Although Tony was a huge influence, it was Buddy Rich, Louie Bellson, and Mel Lewis who provided the most impact on my playing.

Miles Davis’ album ‘Four And More’ was a classic example of Tony’s energy. It was great to hear how tempo can move more freedom to play. I also met Tony while at Remo Drum Heads when he was testing out some new models while gigging with a small group at Catalina’s club in Los Angeles.

Rick Drumm is a 33-year veteran of the music products industry. His career includes being president of D’Addario & Company, president of Vic Firth Inc., CEO of Midco International and direcotr of sales and marketing for Remo Inc. Rick has developed numerous percussion products for Remo, Vic Firth, Evans and Promark. He has also developed and directed educational and artist programs for all the aforementioned companies.

His initial goal was to be a studio drummer. Rick studied drums with Ed Shaughnessy, drummer for the Tonight Show and he also studied with Sonny Igoe, CBS staff musician for the Ed Sullivan and Jackie Gleason shows.

After high school, he performed with the U.S. Air Force NORAD band with UNT guitar professor, Fred Hamilton, and the Ringling Bros. Barnum & Bailey Circus. He then moved to Los Angeles to pursue his goal of being a studio drummer and discovered other interests that created a new and unexpected path into the music industry.

Since 2014, Rick has coached over 65 companies to success in a wide range of industries with this company, Peak Growth Solutions. His family and he reside in Amherst, MA. He is still practicing regularly and is looking for his next “big break”…