Tom P. Az.

I currently play drums in my band, Black Widow U.S.A. which has been together since 1997. We are classified as a European traditional Power Metal Band with Classic Rock elements. We have recorded and released two CDs that have national and international distribution, and several tracks included on some compilations. I also have touring experience throughout the U.S. in support of the CDs we have released. I have been playing drums professionally since 1973. Since I was a young kid, music and rock and roll in particular was always in my life. And the drums were what always caught my attention. And it was always the harder, heavier stuff of the time (Kinks,Grand Funk Railroad, Led Zeppelin, Judas Priest, AC/DC) that caught my ear. Those types of drummers influenced me. Don Brewer(GRAND FUNK) John Bonham, and Tommy Aldridge for his double bass were the ones for me. I was also influenced by Ian Paice(the drummer of Deep Purple). Black Widow started out playing covers in clubs and then after a short time started mixing in our own originals. That lead to recording our first CD. Which then led to touring and another CD and more touring. I also now play drums in a popular classic rock, metal cover band. That typically plays about two shows a month. I started taking private lessons in 1969. Learning the fundamentals (rudiments, sticking, keeping good time with a metronome) and how to read drum notation. In the early 80's, I was interested in learning double bass technique so I found a young teacher in a music store that got me started with that. I also have helped other musicians with the songs by laying down drum tracks for them. I just love to play and pass on what knowledge I have to my students. Right now with the ongoing Covid pandemic situation, I am not giving lessons in my home. When things EVER change I will start again!