Joe Alessandro

Joe Alessandro, a veteran drummer of more than 30 years, began playing at age 13, where he started out in the typical fashion of "jamming" with his school buddies in numerous "garage bands" and playing practically every night. Joe was never satisfied with just playing what everyone else was playing; he excelled, taking on the music of the most respected progressive bands and drummers of the time.

Joe attended P.I.T. in Hollywood (known today as M.I.T.), where he was introduced to the theories, styles and drum playing techniques that represented endless possibilites ahead. After P.I.T., Joe continued his musical education, studying with several "name" musicians such as Paul Cush (formerly of CBS studios), Terry Bozio who had performed with Missing Persons, Frank Zappa, Jeff Beck and others. Joe continued picking up styles and techniques including the New Breed and other independent limb styles that suited him so well.

Over the years, Joe has been recruited by both industry executives and musicians to play for them on a variety of projects and has received credits from Chuck Silverman in his compilation book and cd entitled "The Funk Master" which was published by Warner Brothers. Joe also signed with Don Harrison to perform on an album for Crysalis Records. Joe has performed on numerous projects with CBS Records as well as a number of independent labels.

Having performed as a studio musician for the last 25 years, Joe's experience has proven valuable to many who know of him and have been able to use him on their projects. He is currently affiliated with Hollywood Music and has been asked to perform in many of their various events and broadcasts which have aired since their inception.

One of Joe's major goals is to become one of the country's foremost drum clinicians. He began conducting drum clinics more than 10 years ago and has turned them into an informative and entertaining event. He is uniquely successful in not only demonstrating some of the most popular and difficult styles and techniques but in doing so in a way that those in attendance not only understand what he is showing them but are able to take it home and begin playing it for themselves.

Recently, Joe has been busy with his instructional videos, The True Basics of Drumming Volumes I, II, II, and IV, but manages to stay actively involved in several other projects, including some projects where he is able to contribute original compositions.

josephalessandro@sbcglobal.net