Drums/Percussion

Drummer and multi-instrumentalist Daniel Zitomer grew up in Westchester, New York, and is currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in Jazz Studies and Environmental Science at Northwestern University. He performs, writes, and arranges regularly with his own groups and with the Northwestern Jazz Small Ensemble, and has studied with Dave Tedeschi, Jerad Lippi, Bill O’Connell, and Willie Jones III. Daniel also regularly plays in the pit orchestra for Northwestern’s Wirtz Theatre Productions.

Daniel has many years of teaching experience with students of all ages. His teaching approach is largely tailored to the goals of the individual student, with an emphasis on fostering a passion for music and a love for the drums. Daniel approaches the drums from a holistic perspective, employing a mix of song-based learning and technical exercises during lessons. He teaches a range of styles including, but not limited to, jazz, pop, rock, and afro-cuban.

Daniel’s personal playing style takes inspiration from Philly Joe Jones, Brian Blade, Mark Guilliana, John Bonham, and Matt Garstka. He focuses on playing melodically and expressively, believing that the drums have a unique capacity to both guide the emotional direction of the performance and provide much-needed support. Daniel works to impart this mindset on his students, encouraging creativity and expressiveness on and off the band-stand.

To contact/schedule a lesson with Daniel email metzgermusicstudio@gmail.com or call 773-744-1156