Growing up in Ottawa Canada was a wonderful experience. My childhood was carefree and idyllic. I was raised in a quiet community where everyone had half acre lots with lush trees and gardens. The wide variety of music was a constant thrill. From listening to the AM radio hits of the 60s ... to FM in the 70s and SO many amazing bands, the influences were widespread.

I discovered drums at a young age and used to make “sets“ out of cardboard boxes.

I’d go grocery shopping with my mom and, based on their tone, I’d pick out which ones we’d use to carry the bags of food. We’d unload the groceries and I’d take my “drums” downstairs and set them up.

Wooden spoons were my drumsticks. I was about 5.

My parents bought me a toy drum set for Christmas that year. I trashed it in the first 2 minutes of playing.

For my sixth birthday I got an orange sparkle Coronet snare drum, stand and cymbal ... and matching orange pinstripe shirt and pants. By age 12 I had a bass drum, hi-hat and cymbal to go with my now 2 snare drums ( the second with the snares off to sound like a tom-tom ).

I played my first pro gig with that set-up in my father’s country band.

At Brookfield High School I played swing music in the stage band. We also formed The Reptiles and created that classic original song Math Sucks (whose writer, I happily say, went on to considerable wealth).

My early 20s were spent playing in a top 40 cover band that toured all the time. Being on the road was an amazing time in my life.

Since the 90s I’ve played in and recorded with a wide variety of bands. From country to Latin to Heavy Metal to Blues, Funk and Rock, my early influences have nurtured my diversity.

I spent more time on guitar and piano after the passing of my musically gifted father. All of a sudden, learning these became easier. I thought if I practiced enough maybe I could play those professionally as well.

The 2000s I continued on with any means of music. I hosted karaoke, deejayed, hosted open stage jams and started teaching. Many members of my family are in that profession, so it comes quite naturally.

My greatest thrill is releasing my own music. The album “Tales From The Experimental Farm“ is the result of my life long dedication.

I played the drums, acoustic guitar, keyboards and did all the singing. With a little help from some talented friends, I am very proud to share it.

I feel grateful for all I can do. I’m looking forward to more.

If I can help entertain or teach you, I’m ready.

Thank you for your interest,

PEACE AND LOVE

NGT