My Origin Story (pt. 1)

I wasn’t always a talented drummer. In fact, as a teenager, I was lazy when it came to practice. Sure, I played at school and jammed with friends, but it was more about fun than any serious dedication. Drumming was just something I did—it wasn’t yet something I lived for.

As I transitioned into young adulthood, I had a realization: drumming wasn’t just something I enjoyed—it was the only thing I was truly good at. I began to feel that if I wanted to do something meaningful with my life, I needed to take my passion more seriously. That thought shifted everything.

It wasn’t easy to go from a casual player to someone fully committed. I had no idea where to start, but I knew I had to invest in myself. I spent all the money I had on drum lessons, books, CDs, and equipment. I practiced day and night—sometimes to the frustration of those around me. There were sacrifices, doubts, and the ever-present question: “Am I really good enough?

The Journey

I became obsessed with drumming, throwing myself into every opportunity to learn and grow. Over time, my hard work began to pay off. I achieved mastery not through a few intense years, but through decades of consistent dedication. It wasn’t about being the fastest or the flashiest—it was about showing up every day for 25 years and putting in the hours.

Interestingly, the same evolution happened with teaching. At first, I resisted it. I even remember telling a girlfriend in my early 20s, “I don’t want to teach.” To me, teaching felt like admitting I wasn’t good enough to make it as a performer.

But over time, I proved to myself that I was good enough. I worked with nationally and internationally recognized musicians, which gave me the confidence and validation I craved. So when I finally opened my studio and began teaching more and more, I no longer felt the need to prove anything. I taught not out of obligation, but from a place of passion and fulfillment.

The Result

Drumming became more than just a skill—it became my life. And teaching, something I once resisted, became one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. Now, I look back and realize that every hour of practice, every moment of doubt, and every sacrifice was worth it. The hard work shaped me not just as a drummer, but as a mentor to others walking their own path.

The Lesson

The journey wasn’t about innate talent—it was about commitment, perseverance, and a willingness to evolve. Whether it’s drumming, teaching, or anything else, success is built one step at a time.