rhythm as counterpoint

Steve Renko is an award-winning drummer and percussionist. Since his first professional engagements at the age of 9, Steve has toured and performed internationally with Jazz, Rock, Blues, Afro-Cuban and Funk outfits. Recent performances include Dizzy's Club in New York City, Le Théâtre Capitole in Québec City, Québec, Bamboula's in New Orleans, The House of Blues in Chicago and the Fayatteville Roots Festival in Fayatteville, Arkansas.  

He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Jazz Performance from The New School in New York City and has studied under world renowned musicians - Matt Wilson, The Clayton Brothers, Bob McKee, Jamey Haddad and Johannes Weidenmüller. He also studied composition and arranging with genre-defying pianist/conductor, Kirk Nurock.  Steve maintains an active recording and touring schedule with acclaimed songwriters and producers in New York City, Cleveland, Ohio; Hartford, Connecticut; Buffalo, New York; and Detroit, Michigan

 Awards Include:  

2002 Guitar Center Drum-Off National Runner Up 
2005 Gibson/Baldwin GRAMMY Jazz Ensemble 
2005 Hank Marr Competition Winner
 2005 Modern Drummer Best Undiscovered Drummer Runner-Up 
2007 Yamaha Young Performing Artist
2013-2016 The New School of Jazz - Scholarship Recipient (Graduated with Honors)

Lessons

Offering Private, Group and Remote Lessons!

With my students, I seek to develop strong fundamental techniques - mastery of the rudiments, critical and active listening skill and the ability to play with a metronome. Next, I approach the ability to read notated music as another fundamental for becoming a well-rounded musician/drummer. I wish to cultivate one's love of music performance through interactive and personalized lesson plans. If your fundamentals are already strong and are just looking to prepare for auditions, getting that perfect drum sound, or to learn that one tune that's giving you trouble, I'm here to help. I can't wait to be a part of your journey!