I got started in my parents basement in Syracuse, NY at the age of 5 on a homemade kit of lunch boxes, tar cans and a sewer snake. From school bands, including All County and All State as well as taking private lessons for a decade,from many cover and original bands, whether drumming or singing, or playing with national artists such as Joey Belladonna of Anthrax and Eric Martin of Mr. Big to my continued 19 plus years with Blue Man Group. Constantly performing,and creating on various projects that involve cool, talented people and taking inspiration from all sources, keeps me going strong!
Jeff Tortora
Blue Man Group, Elliot Waits For No One, Femmes of Rock,Tinnitus
Jeff
Tortora
IN 3
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Most memorable Next-Level Performance
The time I had one more take in me in the studio, possibly, I smashed my finger on the rim of the snare on the previous take, and low and behold it ended up being one of my best tracks ever. -
What Drives Your Creativity?
Inspiration-including David Lynch to Mike Patton to being a front man, to live theatre, constructive criticism, eventually ha, positive feedback from peers and audience members, performing live. Other musician/performers that excite me. Yes, my fellow drummers and drumming, light/dark. Extremes. -
Why do you choose Vic Firth?
5b wood tip hickory model. When I want to play heavy and powerful they have the sufficient weight as well when I want to play with more finesse or dynamics, they are light enough as well to be "the perfect pair''
BEHIND THE KIT
