Jimmy started drumming at the tender age of 3 years old. He went on to study with various drum instructors to perfect his talent.
It was one late afternoon out for a drive with the family where the young drummer saw a sign for a Buddy Rich concert that would impact the youngsters life forever. After seeing Buddy with his Orchestra, Jimmy knew that he wanted to play drums. When he was 16 he entered the "Slingerland Louie Belson National Drum Contest," in which he came in 3rd place.
As time past he continued to study under such notable teachers such as he uncle for one, who was a great drummer in his own right , along with the great Norm Grossman, Justin DiCioccio and Terry Silverlight, who taught for many years at "Drummers Collective," as well with Keith Copeland in New York City.
Jimmy landed his first professional gig at age 16 playing various local pop and R&B bands through out the New York area. But in the back of his mind he knew he had an aspiration to play with many of his jazz heros. He certainly did reach that goal.
At 18 Jimmy landed a gig playing with the "Ray Abrams Big Band." His goal and passion was to play big band music.
Ray took Jimmy under his wing and helped give him the understanding of what it takes to become a proficient big band drummer.
Then it was that fateful night where a friend asked him if he would like to audition for "Lionel Hampton's Big Band", and without hesitation said YES!
Upon making the cut and touring for 5 years with the Hampton band, Jimmy has never looked back. And with that he has had the privilage to perform with these legends:
Lionel Hampton
Dizzy Gillespie
Milt Hinton
Harry Connick Jr.
Freddie Hubbard
Benny Powell
Al Grey
Jimmy Heath
Paquito D'Rivera
Slam Stewart
Illinois Jacquet
Benny Bailey
In his spare time he is also owner and partner in the Ford Drum Co, creating drums for the discerning drummer.