Drummers Adam Marko & Thomas Pridgen Do Master Class

His awards are well-documented; the winner of the Guitar Center Drum-Off at the age of 9, and the recipient of a full scholarship to Berklee College of Music at the age of 15, it has been clear for a while that Thomas Pridgen was on his way to greatness. He became the youngest player sponsored by Zildjian at the age of 10, and has studied with an impressive roster of accomplished drummers from an incredibly diverse array of styles, such as: Dennis Chambers, Dave Garibaldi, Curtis Nutall, Walfredo Reyes Sr., Dom Famularo, Virgil Donati, Animal – Meat Puppets, Dave Dacinzo, and Troy Luketta.

Since Thomas’ departure from The Mars Volta in late 2009, his focus has shifted to making his own musical vision a reality. After recording tracks for Curren$y and Mos Def, Thomas went back to his home in Oakland and readied his first attempt as band leader, with The Memorials. Thomas will be taking up the sticks on the main stage at 3pm on the Saturday of this year’s LDS!

Born in Budapest, Hungary, Adam Marko is the drummer and motor of modern instrumental band, Special Providence, which has become one of the most well known and appreciated jazz-metal quartets in the European progressive scene with their virtuoso, yet easily digestible style. Aside from Special Providence, Adam is one of the best employed session drummers in Hungary, able to take able to take on various styles from hip-hop across pop to rock and metal. The musical diversity and individuality in music are the two keystones in his playing and his music.

An international endorser and artist of Meinl Cymbals, Natal Drums, Vic Firth sticks, Evans Drumheads; a clinician, educator, performer, producer; over 10 years of work and four albums under his belt, there’s plenty of wisdom to be gained from the likes of Adam, so be sure to catch him at the Education Zone on Sunday (time TBA).