Legendary Rock Drummers Corky Laing, and Liberty DeVitto presented a clinic at Rocky’s Music Studio
on October 3 rd 2026. The proceeds were to benefit ‘The Parkinson’s Center YMCA’ of Albany, N.Y. with additional donations naming long-time Modern Drummer journalist, Bob Girouard… To whom the evening was dedicated.
“Talk about legacy! Corky Laing, and Liberty DeVitto brought their mojo to Rocky’s Music, and literally rocked the house down!. Synonymous with Billy Joel and Mountain respectively, ...Corky with his caustic wit... Liberty with his sheer power and mastery of the drums, the large crowd was treated to nothing short of a superlative afternoon...Long live the knowledge and virtuosity that comes with the years under these two Rock Giants.” - Bob Girouard
Billy Amendola brought Corky and Liberty together for the ‘standing room only’ event. Since 2002, Bob Girouard has been suffering with the debilitating effects of Parkinson’s disease and has been experiencing some major health setbacks of late.
“It’s always a fun, musical, educational experience at Rocky’s drum events. Working with Lib and Corky is a
blast! Over the years, knowing them as both people and musicians has inspired me, and everyone who hears them play. Thanks to Rocky, Corky and Lib for their contribution to Parkinson’s YMCA in Albany, NY, in honor of co-host Bob Girouard. Special thanks to Rocky’s brother, Dino, for the studio, and thank you to everyone who came. See ya’ next time.” -- Billy Amendola (Billy’s Bubble)
Corky and Liberty took us through their distinguished careers while demonstrating what makes their drumming so iconic… Participating in a ‘good old-fashioned’ drum battle reminiscent of ‘Buddy Rich’ and ‘Gene Krupa’. They also brought a few lucky students onstage to play alongside them. There was also a ‘Meet ‘n Greet’ with Corky and Liberty directly after the event
“Rocky… All of the thanks goes to you -- Your support for drummers and the musical community is beyond appreciated. It’s inspiring to everyone who meets you. Your support for Bob is so heartfelt. You’re a man amongst great men. -- Thank you,” -- Liberty DeVitto
Liberty donated all of his merchandise sales… Corky made a generous donation, and contributed one of his snare drums to the raffle. With the additional donations, and raffles -- over a thousand dollars was raised that day.
“Rocky always has unique events- this one being my second. He seems to draw inspiring crowds to hear different drummers play. I drove four hours from Long Island to Albany for Bob Girouard. Bob is a beloved, kind human who has supported other drummers and me over the years. Sadly, now he’s been challenged with Parkinson’s. That’s one of the main reasons I showed up. The other reason I came was to hear and play with Liberty DeVitto, who inspires me, and so many others. People listen to his experiences, he has a great sense of humor, and I feel he is one of the best rock drummers alive. Rocky and his brother Dino are great hosts. Dino donated his beautiful studio. Both inspire so many young musicians. These types of drum events are important, uplifting, and it’s something all of us drummers need to do if we’re fortunate enough to be in a position to give back. These events are all about taking care of each other.” -- Corky Laing (Mountain)
Thanks to sponsors Sabian Cymbals, Evans Drumheads, and ddrum USA for the awesome raffle items. Also, a huge thank you to ‘Dino Petrocelli Photography’ for use of his studio which proved to be the perfect venue. The Parkinson’s Center YMCA was thrilled when Rocky Petrocelli asked if we would like to be the recipients of their ‘Drumming to Beat Parkinson’s Event’. - This was such a wonderful way to give back to the community where so many people are affected by Parkinson’s disease. I was blown away by Corky and Liberty. What a treat to see two legends perform & tell stories of how drumming shaped their live. We at the Parkinson’s Center are grateful for Rocky and all of the wonderful people who made this event possible. -- Kimmarie, Parkinson’s Center YMCA
“A very special thanks to Billy Amendola for putting these two drumming legends together and co-hosting the event, and of course, my brother of the drum partner, Bob Girouard to whom the evening was dedicated. Thanks to EVERYONE who attended and made it an overwhelming success. The feedback has been absolutely off the charts!”
-- Rocky Petrocelli
Rocky’s Music Studio
564 Bloomingrove Drive
Rensselaer, NY 12144
518-429-6380
www.rockysmusicstudio.com