Garey Williams has steadily built a reputation as both a world-class
drummer and uniquely gifted educator. With over thirty years playing
experience and over twenty years teaching experience, Garey has
received attention from International publications and well known
drummers.
Percussive Notes said: “Williams sounds like a combination of Vinnie Colaiuta and
Peter Erskine through his careful attention to the orchestration of each section of the
tune. His relaxed, flowing style suits the music, yet he is always pushing the other
players to new heights."
Dom Famularo said: "I listened to the CD. I am very impressed with everything! You're
playing was first class - creative, musical and inspired. This is 'Art'... and this is a
wonderful contribution to the music industry. It sets a high standard and a clear vision of
what to strive for!" Also: "Garey's clinic presentations are relaxed and well delivered. It's
clear he’s been doing this for a long time."
With a Master’s degree in Percussion Performance and Jazz Studies
at Central Washington University, drummer Williams has been a
fixture in the Northwest scene, having performed with such musicians
as Diana Krall, Kristin Korb, Bud Shank, Barney McClure, Howard
Roberts, Joe Williams, Bobby Shew, Jay Thomas, Clay Jenkins, Milt
Jackson, Cedar Walton, Ray Brown, Eddie Daniels and Dizzy
Gillespie. In 2001 he re-formed Ecstasy In Numbers with guitarist
Mike Mattingly and bassist Rick White. The band became a hit on the
underground scene and for three years have toured and performed in
Seattle and the Northwest to standing-room-only crowds. The bands
progressive-jazz/rock sound has been gaining the attention of clubs
and promoters, as well as the ears of a small but growing European
fan base.
Modern Drummer said: "Garey Williams displays a beautiful touch and emotion in his
drumming. He performs with a strong technique and a keen sense of what to play in a
studio situation to achieve the correct balance within a jazz/rock trio setting. His drums
sound fat, wet, and well recorded. His cymbal work is very expressive...possesses
noteworthy chops..." Also: There is not a standout track on the CD, They are ALL
outstanding.”
John Riley says: “I've just listened to your CD [The Search] and you sound great in the
trio, congrats.”
Rhythm Magazine said: "Garey plays with an attentive spark much the way Chad
Wackerman did with Allan Holdsworth."
Garey has released a wealth of teaching materials under his own
publishing company, Drumset Artistry. He has available: three
educational DVDs;
Developing a Solo Vocabulary, Rudiments
Applied to the Drumset, Get A Grip, The Strokes and Motions of
Drumming, two method books,
Contemporary Drumming Essentials
Volume One, Contemporary Drumming Essentials Volume Two and
an educational CD. He has been published in Rhythm Magazine,
Modern Drummer, Percussive Notes and Band World.
Jim Chapin says: "It's great to experience your great talent. Your technique is terrific.
You're extraordinary. Really, really absolutely terrific...you're playing is sensational."
Gregg Bissonette said: “I think you gave a really good clinic and got your points across
well. Most of all...your playing is wonderful and I was really digging it!!”
Dean Brown PIT Instructor said: "Students are fortunate to have a teacher and player
of Garey's caliber in the area."
Williams’ teaching experience includes private lessons, master
classes and clinics at public schools, drum schools, jazz camps,
percussion festivals, music stores, drum shops and serving on the
music faculty at Central Washington University, Yakima Valley
Community College and Olympic College. Williams is an active
educator conducting clinics for DW/Pacific drums, Sabian cymbals,
Vic Firth sticks, Remo drumheads and LP Percussion. Garey also
does freelance performing and recording projects.
For more
information you can visit Garey on the web at
www.gareywilliams.com.