Bio: Theo Metz is a classical percussionist originally from Alabama. He has performed with the Ridgewood Symphony Orchestra, North Jersey Orchestra, and DBR and the Mission. Theo has observed Taiko drumming in Japan and had a number of performances of western music during his stay. After his experiences in Japan, he studied music in India under Mr. T. V. Gopalakrishnan; a legendary Carnatic musician and later performed with Mr. Gopalakrishnan in the United States. His playing has been noted for its “sensitive but assertive touch†and as a drummer that knows "when to rock the fuck out" (eyeweekly). Theo is currently percussion performance major working towards his BM at William Paterson University and is an active member in the New Jersey Percussion Ensemble. In addition he performs with Nice Daughter, Slow Six, and Super Marimba.
'The Virtues We Write In Water' was written for Ableton Live, Reason, MIDI, Glockenspiel, Drum Set, audio from the LAPD, Boss Loop Station, and a mixer. This elaborate set up as well as the structure of this piece allow me to perform it live with no overdubbing. 'The Virtues We Write In Water' was recorded by long time friend and engineer Mark Sost. (www.marksost.com)
'Dark Thoughts for a Delicate Night' uses prepared piano, almglocken, crotales, and the inside of the piano to create very slow, exposed, and dark sound with a minimalist approach.
'The Signal That Never Sleeps' is a solo written for Taiko drum; a large traditional Japanese folk instrument. This historic instrument is was commonly found in battle as the drummers would set the pace for soldiers to march to. Today more modern applications can be found in musical settings. This particular piece explores traditional taiko playing with a 20th century view. With multiple mallets, sticks, and brushes I tried finding as many sounds possible out of the drum while attempting to uphold the traditional sound and visual experience of taiko performance.
'Kids Hammer Like This' is written and performed by Nice Daughter , an all percussion trio with April McCloskey, Jeff Brown and myself. The concept is inspired by electronic music, ambient drone, metal, post-rock, and contemporary music. The instrumentation currently is drum set, vibes, and multi-percussion setup. Check us out at www.myspace.com/nicedaugher
In addition to my own music, I will post all solo performances and ensemble performances.
Feel free to contact me through myspace or email ([email protected])
