JOE ABBATANTUONO

Joe Abbatantuono found his passion for drumming at the age of ten. Beginning in 1988, he took private lessons from Lou Varuzzo, but he did not want his musical education to stop there. In high school, Joe involved himself in all manner of musical activities like wind ensemble, symphony orchestra, marching band, and jazz band. He dedicated his summers to the study of music as well and attended New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) summer programs five years in a row. Through the various programs, he was able to learn at the feet of the Philadelphia Orchestra percussionists as well as Ed Shaughnessy, Frank Mantooth, and Milt Hinton. Under the tutelage of these great musicians, Joe grew certain he wanted to dedicate his life to music.

Following high school graduation, Joe attended The Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam, earned a B.M. in Music Education, and completed the Master of Arts program at New York University in 2000.

Professionally, as a performer Joe refused to limit himself to just jazz. He has a recurring gig as Jessica Simpson’s drummer, he has his own New York based rock & roll group called Collider, and he plays in the Thelonious Monk tribute band called the Brilliant Coroners. As a session recording artist, he has worked with Tommy and CJ Ramone, Ted Nash, Mike Richmond, and most recently, he has drummed in the critically-acclaimed Björkestra, which performs big band renditions of songs by Icelandic singer/songwriter Björk.

Finally, Joe Abbatantuono is a teacher and enjoys giving private lessons, clinics, and master classes across New York State. He is employed by the Paul Effman Music Service and maintains a regular teaching schedule throughout the year.