Pulse Beat Music
Artist Discipline: Music
Pulse Beat Music comprises a collective of professional percussionists who have traveled the world to master the art of drumming. More information can be found at www.pulsebeatmusic.com including video clips, audio mp3s, and bios of the musicians.
Artist Bio
The Birthplace of Rhythm Artist Bios
John Knecht has traveled to over 25 countries to study hand percussion and folk songs. He is the founder of Pulse Beat Music and teaches extensively with Urban Gateways, the International House of Blues Foundation and Highland Park High School.
Michael Tooles has taught hundreds of Chicago students how to drum. Originally from Memphis, he has a specialty on snare drum and drumset. He performs throughout Chicago with bands such as Spider Monkey and Yves Francois Rocambu Jazz Orchestra.
Ashley Muenstermann is a percussionist and dancer who has been studying since the age of two. She has completed two round-the-world trips for musical study and teaches West African drumming and dance.
Jason “Wolfie” Wolf is a professional drummer with a specialty in West African percussion. He speaks fluent French and has toured the country with famous dance instructors like Moustapha Bangoura.
Susie Lofton is an actress, singer and percussionist. She has performed African folktale storytelling performances and is the lead singer in local jazz funk band Spider Monkey.
History of Jazz Artist Bios
Tom Muellner is one of the top jazz pianists in Chicago. He is known for his versatility and ability to play many styles. He has performed with many greats including Von Freeman, Joey DeFrancesco, Ira Sullivan, Bobby Ojeda, and Barrett Deems of Louis Armstrong fame. The Milwaukee Sentinel says “Like the late keyboard master Bill Evans, Tom Muellner finds classic gems, and creates lyrical variations.” Tom began playing at a young age and loves to encourage students to get involved in their school music programs. http://www.tommujazz.com
Phil Gratteau is a drummer who has played with Frank Mantooth, Rob Parton, Ken Arlen Orchestra, Eric Schneider, Kelly Brand, and studied with Duane Thamm, Tom Siwe, and Jack McKenzie at University of Illinois. He performed at the White House in 2007. Currently, he teaches at Roosevelt University, and performs with the Chicago Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra.
Nick Schneider is rated as one of the top bass players in jazz today. He has performed with such greats as Randy Brecker, Eddie Higgins, Buddy Rich Big Band, Teddy Wilson, And The Tonight Show Band just to name a few. Nick currently teaches at Oakton Community College, The University of Wisconsin Indianhead Arts Center, and through his private studio.
John Knecht is a top percussionist and music educator in Chicago. He has performed with Yo Yo Ma at Millennium Park, Baba Maal at the Old Town School of Folk Music, the David Rothstein Orchestra, and various world music groups covering styles from Flamenco to West Africa to Brazilian. John works with Urban Gateways, the House of Blues and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, in an effort to get students excited about music and world cultures.