Alek Gayton
has been playing music for as long as he can remember. Learning music through his family's music collection and playing on his grandmother's piano. By the time he was old enough to play drums he had immersed himself in all things music, playing in ensembles at school and forming his first band in the 7th grade, playing shows in the local punk rock scene.
Since those early experiences he has been performing and recording professionally, earning his B.A in Music from Eastern Washington University and his M.M in Jazz and Improvised Music from the University of Washington.
Over the last decade Alek has performed locally and nationally with a wide variety of artists. His flexible playing style has led to a wide range of performance opportunities, including playing with Le Grotto, Delvon Lamar, The Bob Curnow Big Band, Ernie Watts, Mike Stern and the Seahawks Drumline. These opportunities have led to performances at notable events such as Monterey Jazz Festival's Next Generation, South by Southwest, The New Orleans Jazz Festival, MNF on ESPN and several US and West Coast tours. His drumming can be heard on the Erina song Home, which is featured on HBO’s Cherish the Day.
As an educator, Alek possesses the flexibility to teach to each individual student. Every student has different interests and goals. He believes in giving students the opportunity to explore and create on their instrument, while focusing on strong fundamentals. He additionally puts emphasis on learning songs and playing along with music, while learning about the history of the band or artist with his students. (Alek loves music history!)
INSTRUMENTS.
Drums (kit), Melodic Percussion, Digital Composition, Piano, Percussion, Audition/Performance Prep, Band Coaching
STYLES.
Soul, R&B, Jazz, Pop, Folk, Rock
REQUIREMENTS.
Students 7 and up — all skill levels & abilities welcome!
CONNECT.
TESTIMONIALS.
Coming Soon!
