Joe Sm

Haisley Elementary School, Forsythe Middle School- 4th through 8th grade, my music instructor was the extremely talented and locally famous Mr. Louis Smith, in the public schools of Ann Arbor, MI. Well known for his Jazz trumpet, Mr. Smith was a phenomenal teacher as well. He encouraged proper technique, timing, and discipline. Although we had our differences at times, I am more than grateful for his patient instruction of my musical education. Without his mentoring I would not be the drummer I am today.

Annapolis High School-9th through 11th grade I was first chair drummer in the high school concert and marching bands. Whenever a piece of music called for the trap set, it was I that took the throne. Marching band was only during the football season, but was a rigorous regiment of practice and sight reading. I wrote the cadence for one of our homecoming day parades.

Community High School- 12th grade Member of the Jazz quintet class, sharing drumming duty with one other student. I lent my drumming abilities to the drama club for they’re presentation of West Side Story. Not quite Buddy Rich, however everyone was pleased with my performance. That was an extraordinary experience, and some of my proudest work.

Although I never took private lessons, I spent anywhere from 1 to 8 hours a day practicing and playing along to my favorite CD's such as Slayer, Anthrax, Megadeth, Metallica, Prong, Clutch, etc. I also enjoyed watching instructional videos from the likes of Neil Peart, Terry Bozzio, Simon Phillips, Buddy Rich, Gene Krupa, Steve Smith, Ed Shaughnessy, etc. As my talent in drumming grew, so did my taste in music. At 18 I began to explore the world of Funk. Some of the greatest drummers in the world exist in the funk genre. From Billy Cobham to Buddy Miles, I consider these all to be the teachers of my musical education.

Jan. 1995-Feb. 1996-Universal Stomp-Detroit Hardcore band. Many local shows, 1 short tour of the Midwest and helped write songs for one full length record.

Nov. 1996-Sep. 2001-Perpetual Hype Engine-Detroit heavy metal band. Hundreds of local shows, many tours, one music video, 2 full length records, and one e.p.

Jan. 2002-Jan. 2003-Forge-Detroit power metal band. Dozens of local shows, 3 east coast tours, and one full length record.

Feb.2003-present-Various gigs and recordings in teh central Florida area with Joe Gutc, Linda Cole, Ron Aitken, and David Yancey.

I have a cousin, who at the age of 6, showed interest in taking drum lessons. He was my first student, and I gave him my first drum set. He was not adept to paying attention at first, however through persistence, and determination, I was able to keep him interested and involved. He remains a drummer to this day. Now 23 years old and playing with a local detroit area rock band, I'm proud to say my little cousin Anthony is a fine drummer.
I have also been giving lessons to my 5 year old son since he was about 8 months old. I had him banging away before he could walk. His instruction has been progressing smoothly for some time. Quite the prodigy.

There are a number of students that I have recently picked up. One of them being little Johnny Alves Jr. This kid blows my mind. 5 years old and playing beats like nobody's business at his first lesson. I'm able to keep his attention for the full hour lesson, and he loves every minute of it. This kid is really something special. His parents bought him a drumkit a little less than a year ago, and decided it was time for formal lessons. Good call on thier part! This kid's got it.