Biography

Sam's love for the drums began when he started playing them in the fifth grade band.  Since that time, he has known no other existance than that of a musician and teacher.  He started his studies in jazz when he enrolled at The Ohio State University in 1995.  While at OSU, he began working with many Columbus area jazz musicians and teaching private lessons.  In 2004, Sam moved to New Jersey to attend William Paterson University's renowned Jazz Studies program.  While at WPU, he studied with Bill Goodwin, Mulgrew Miller, Harold Mabern and many other jazz greats.  He was fortunate to appear frequently at WPU Jazz Rooms opening for Joe Lovano, Steve Turre and others.  He recently completed his Master of Music in Jazz Studies at WPU and has returned to the Columbus area. In addition to performing, he is currently the coordinator of music at the Ohio Ave. branch of  Directions for Youth & Families . He is also teaching several days a week at Columbus Percussion.