Jason was born in the entertainment hub of the world, New York City. From day one he was exposed to the diverse musical offerings only a city like New York can provide. At an early age Jason’s family moved to Philadelphia where his interest in drumming emerged and took shape. He started playing drums and taking private lessons at age 8 and by the time he got to high school he had performed before thousands of people.
In his formative years Jason studied with many private instructors, all of whom taught lessons that he still uses today. However, two teachers who profoundly influenced his life were renowned drumming instructor Jay Bruno and percussionist and teacher Joyce Haraguay. It is unlikely that Jason’s drumming would be where it is today if it weren’t for these amazing individuals.
During high school Jason performed with many great artists including Christian McBride, with whom he played in The All-City Jazz Band and the late-great Grover Washington, Jr. One of his most memorable and educational drumming experiences was sharing the All-City Jazz Band drumming slot with Sabian endorsee Lil’ John Roberts. While in high school he played many ‘musicals’ and jazz concerts at renowned venues around the Philadelphia area, including the Walnut Theater and the Academy of Music. Also, it was during this time that he started playing in clubs all around Philadelphia and south New Jersey.
At 19 years of age Jason went on to attend the Armed Forces School of Music as a member of the U.S. Navy Band. While stationed near Chicago he played thousands of engagements that ranged from rock to jazz and from marching to classical music. He was also a gigging drummer around Chicago doing club dates, clinics and shows for private and public audiences.
After leaving the Navy and subsequently Chicago, Jason moved back to the east coast where he continued playing in various bands, including Brother Grimm, Animal House, The Insiders, Max Graham and Kenny Simmons of The Commodores. He stayed busy doing recording sessions, clubs dates, clinics, and teaching at The Music Place in Haddon, New Jersey. He also earned his Bachelor’s degree while living in New Jersey.
Jason joined the U.S. Marine Band in 2001, which afforded him the opportunity to support country music artist Christina McBride and other notable musicians. He also worked with Regis Philbin, Lee Erming and Jim Lerher. In addition, he made television appearances on American Idol and Wheel of Fortune and performed on local and national television programs.
Jason currently lives in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area with his wife and three children. It is here that he finished his Master’s degree. He continues to perform in various local bands and teach out of his private teaching studio and is available for live performances and studio work, as well as private instruction, clinics and workshops.
