I started playing when I was about 8 years old, growing up in St. Louis. Music was always in my home, my two older brothers were always blasting the Motown groups, Smokey Robinson, The Four Tops, The Temptations, The Supremes and Stevie wonder. I took Band and Orchestra in High School and Junior High. Learned to read and became the drummer in Jazz Band in my High School. I studied percussion in College with John Kasica of the St. Louis Symphony. After college I moved to NY, as I had made a lot of friends there from school. My teacher was from NY and he encouraged me to go, knowing I would like it there. At 21 I was subbing on Broadway shows, touring and continue to do so to this day. While in Boston playing the musical Chicago, a lot of the local band were members of the Boston Pops. I asked them how to go about getting an endorsement with Vic Firth sticks. They said, "Call Vic!!" I got Vic's number, spoke to him personally, and he told me to call his daughter. They were both so nice and welcoming, and I've been an endorser ever since, using four or five different style sticks, their practice pads, stick bags and headphones. They are the best and the different styles are always perfect for whatever situation I find myself in, particularly the Steve Gadd sticks and Signature brushes.
Steve Singer
Independent, Broadway and Off-Broadway
Steve
Singer
IN 3
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Most memorable Next-Level Performance
When I was in High School, our Jazz band played a concert at a college. We were playing some hard charts, some Don Ellis charts in particular. I've never been a great soloist, and this Don Ellis tune, in 7, had an extended solo with me and the percussionist. I remember just going for it, all out. I was drenched and exhausted afterwards and everyone in the band and the audience said how great it was. I couldn't believe it was me. And I don't even remember what I did!! -
What Drives Your Creativity?
Listening as much as I can to the great drummers, Steve Gadd, Tony Williams, Vinnie Colaiuta, Elvin Jones, Jim Keltner, Ringo, Charlie Watts... -
Why do you choose Vic Firth?
I love the Steve Gadd sticks. They are the perfect weight and feel to me and using the butt end for backbeats is sometimes the best sound for my snares and toms.
