Genre

:

Band

 

 

Concerto

 

Steve Houghton is a renowned jazz drummer, percussionist, educator, and author. He was born on August 13, 1958, in Kansas City, Missouri, and grew up in a musical family. His father was a drummer, and his mother was a pianist. Houghton started playing drums at the age of four and was already performing in public by the time he was six. Houghton's early musical influences were jazz legends such as Buddy Rich, Max Roach, and Elvin Jones. He also listened to rock and pop music, which helped him develop a versatile playing style. Houghton attended the University of North Texas, where he studied with renowned jazz drummer Ed Soph. He graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree in 1980. After college, Houghton moved to Los Angeles, where he quickly established himself as a sought-after session musician. He played on numerous recordings for artists such as Freddie Hubbard, Joe Henderson, and Toshiko Akiyoshi. Houghton also toured with the Woody Herman Orchestra and the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra. In 1987, Houghton joined the faculty of Indiana University's Jacobs School of Music, where he is currently a professor of percussion. He has also taught at the University of North Texas, the University of Miami, and the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. Houghton is a prolific author and has written several instructional books and DVDs on drumming and percussion. Houghton has performed with many of the world's top jazz musicians, including Gary Burton, Dave Holland, and Bobby McFerrin. He has also played with classical ensembles such as the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. In 2006, Houghton was appointed principal percussionist of the Disney All-American College Band, a prestigious ensemble that performs at Disneyland in California. Houghton has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career. In 2006, he was inducted into the Percussive Arts Society Hall of Fame. He has also been recognized by the National Endowment for the Arts, the International Association of Jazz Educators, and the Jazz Journalists Association. One of Houghton's most notable performances was his appearance at the 1992 Grammy Awards ceremony. He played drums in a tribute to jazz legend Miles Davis, alongside Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Ron Carter, and Wallace Roney. The performance was widely praised and helped to raise Houghton's profile in the jazz world. Houghton has also recorded several albums as a bandleader, including "The Manne We Love: Gershwin Revisited" and "The Steve Houghton Band." His playing is characterized by a deep sense of swing, impeccable technique, and a willingness to take risks and explore new musical territory. In addition to his work as a performer and educator, Houghton is also a dedicated philanthropist. He has raised thousands of dollars for various charities through benefit concerts and other events. Houghton is also a strong advocate for music education and has worked tirelessly to promote the importance of music in schools and communities. In conclusion, Steve Houghton is a highly respected and accomplished musician who has made significant contributions to the world of jazz and percussion. His playing is characterized by a deep sense of swing, impeccable technique, and a willingness to take risks and explore new musical territory. Houghton's dedication to music education and philanthropy has also made him a beloved figure in the music community.

More....