Austin Gembora

Most Memorable Next-Level Performance?

When I first think about this question, my mind goes to big moments—like that first festival in Germany with funk masters KC Roberts and the Live Revolution, or opening for Keith Urban on Vancouver Island with Steven Lee Olsen. Those are definitely unforgettable experiences. But when I dig deeper, what truly stands out to me are the moments of pure expression when I let go completely and become fully immersed in the music with the right people. It wasn’t always the biggest shows or the most high-profile stages, but those were the moments that felt like the “next level.” In those times, it wasn’t about performing anymore. It wasn’t about the practice room or entertaining for the sake of entertainment. It was spiritual. It was a sense of freedom. All those hours of focus, practice, and hard work lead to that one moment where you tap into something bigger than yourself, and the magic just flows. It connects everyone in the room, and that feeling is what drives me to keep pursuing music for the rest of my life.

What Drives Your Creativity?

Since I was a kid, I’ve always felt a bit like an outsider because of my deep love for music. While other kids played eraser hockey during rainy day recess, I was the one sitting by the CD player, lost in Led Zeppelin live tapes. From a young age, I’ve had this drive to be the best I can be on my instrument. When I watch the greats do their thing, I think to myself, “I can do that.” And then I head into the practice room to figure it out. I take it slow, but I’ve always had a knack for picking things up quickly, which is incredibly gratifying and motivates me to keep pushing forward. As a multi-instrumentalist, producer, and songwriter, I strive to keep everything authentic and pure. I don’t like to follow rules. I create based on feeling, on how the music moves me in the moment. Above all, it’s important that what I make comes from an honest place. Music is such a powerful way to express emotions that words sometimes can’t capture. That sense of individuality drives me—being true to myself and my vision, not just replicating what others do, but making it my own. Finally, I believe that everything and everyone in my life drives and inspires my creativity. It’s not just about mastering something technical. Life experience, traveling the world, experiencing new things with my significant other, even the hardships we face, all play a role. I’ve learned that it’s important to balance practice with living life, staying connected to your body and emotions. This balance creates more space for true expression—whether through song, lyrics, groove, or even a spontaneous drum solo.

Why Do You Choose Vic Firth?

Did I choose Vic Firth or did VF choose me?? Lol For 10 years, I’ve been making a full-time living as a performer and artist, and through it all, I have chosen to use Vic Firth exclusively. The quality and consistency of VF drumsticks have been a key part of my innovative sound and performance, and I truly believe in the brand. My nature of taking sonic risks and pushing my craft has been actualized because I can rely on my tools. The company has not only been integral to my own journey, but also commits to supporting artistry and musicians around the world, and I'm super grateful to be considered a part of the family.