About D Kelly Drums

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Don Kelly is the songwriter's drummer.  A lifelong New Yorker, DK's decades of playing with every style from hard rock to Broadway theatre make Kelly the perfect choice for your next gig or session.  DK has done it all, from intimate to bistros to massive stadiums.  Playing the cabaret circuit developed DK's ability to play quietly without sacrificing the strength of the beat, a rare skill.  Years with jazz and blues combos ensure that DK is up to any improvisatory challenge.  Whatever your music calls for, DK will always put the song first.

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Educated at Hunter College, DK can sightread a chart or provide orchestration for your entire percussion section.  DK also is an experienced educator, teaching drum technique and theory to children and adults in private lessons or group classes, in person or online.

Starting drums at age 16, after DK's second band was narrowly aced out for a record deal (by Enya!), Kelly knew that to make a living from music DK would have to become a team player ready to perform in any professional situation.  DK decided to start playing with as many bands as possible, and the rich musical scene of NYC provided many and varied opportunities.  DK succeeded in realizing the dream, and has been able to focus on music full time for the majority of a long and fantastic career.  

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For Lessons go to dkdownbeat@gmail.com