Jeremy Worthington is an expert percussionist and skilled pianist who works as a professional musician in addition to providing music lessons throughout the area. We asked him what he’s been up to musically and to share some thoughts on what has inspired him as a musician and teacher.
What have you been up to this spring/summer/fall, musically and otherwise?
This summer I have been focusing on gigging with my various music projects, as well as teaching my students. I have also been diving a bit deeper into the world of home recording and audio production. I find that it has broadened my musical horizons, and has given me more confidence in a studio setting. I have been lucky enough to work with some small local studios as a session drummer for other artists and I hope to continue that!
What are your musical inspirations and favorite musicians?
My earliest inspiration at about age 5 was The Jackson 5. I loved the singing, the dancing, and the feel of the music. It wasn’t long after that I picked up my first pair of drumsticks and began to play at age 6.
I was very much influenced by what was on the radio when I was a kid: Smashing Pumpkins, Nirvana, Red Hot Chili Peppers, 311. My tastes developed a bit more in high school when I started to delve into more progressive rock,metal, Jazz, and more experimental types of music. Some of my favorite drummers include Neil Peart, Jimmy Chamberlin, Chad Sexton, Vinnie Colaiuta, Terry Bozzio, Joey Jordison, Tony Williams, and Billy Cobham.
What beliefs do you have about music? Do you have a favorite quote or song?
I’ve always thought music was an important part of life, a necessity, even from a very young age. Great music brings people together, breaks barriers, pushes the envelope, and inspires great ideas. Learning to play an instrument requires patience, ambition, discipline, determination, and a want to learn as much as you can to evolve as a musician and a person. These quality’s transfer into every aspect of life, whether you become a professional musician or you take a different path. I started teaching drums because I want to pass on the knowledge I’ve gained over my years of playing to students who are eager to learn. Most of all I want my students to have fun!
“Information is not knowledge. Knowledge is not wisdom. Wisdom is not truth. Truth is not beauty. Beauty is not love. Love is not music. Music is THE BEST.” - Frank Zappa
What are your musical goals?
My goal is to keep growing as a musician, an instructor, and as a person.
What do you like about teaching music?
I enjoy teaching because I get genuine joy out of watching students progress and surprise themselves. Teaching keeps me on my toes and makes me want to learn even more so that I can in turn share that knowledge with my students.
Thank you, Jeremy!
