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In this episode, we’re honored to feature Ed Shea, a distinguished musician whose career spans from the Philadelphia soul scene to the stages of Broadway.
Highlights from the Episode:
* Early Musical Influences: Ed shares his initial fascination with music, sparked by the lively bands performing at his grandfather’s bar in Wildwood, New Jersey.
* Educational Journey: Attending North Catholic High School in Philadelphia, Ed was mentored by esteemed band director Tony Marchione, leading to his first theatrical experience with Do Re Mi.
* Mentorship and Development: The impact of Nick D’Amico, a leading Philadelphia show drummer, in honing Ed’s drumming skills and professional approach.
* Philadelphia Sound Era: Insights into recording at Sigma Sound Studios with legends like Gamble and Huff, contributing to the iconic “Philadelphia Sound” alongside artists such as the O’Jays and Teddy Pendergrass.
* Atlantic City Performances: Experiences from the peak of Atlantic City’s entertainment scene, including performances with luminaries like Sammy Davis Jr. and Tony Bennett.
* Broadway Transition: Ed’s move to New York City in the early ’90s, marking his Broadway debut and solidifying his reputation through tours like The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber.
* Sustaining Performance Excellence: Strategies for maintaining enthusiasm and precision in performances, and the camaraderie among Broadway musicians.
* Guidance for Aspiring Musicians: Practical advice on preparation, subbing, networking, and succeeding in the competitive Broadway environment.
* Adapting to Technological Advances: Navigating the integration of drum machines and evolving demands of contemporary drum compositions.
Memorable Anecdotes:
* Performing for Frank Sinatra at the Latin Casino at 25 and managing on-stage challenges.
* Bringing personal timpani to a Sigma Sound session, receiving support from producer Thom Bell.
* Mentoring emerging Broadway drummers, including Joe Nero, Taylor Simpson and Dan Berkery.
Ed reflects on his dynamic career, the music industry’s evolution, and the privilege of being part of Broadway’s vibrant community. He encourages perseverance, adaptability, and embracing the challenges of a musical career in New York City.
About Ed Shea
Ed Shea is a seasoned percussionist and drummer whose career began in the rich musical landscape of Philadelphia. A member of the American Federation of Musicians across multiple cities, including New York and Philadelphia, Ed has showcased his versatility across various platforms.
Broadway Contributions:
* Dream (1996)
* Peter Pan (1999–2000)
* Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me (2006)
* Newsies The Musical (2012–2014)
* Holiday Inn, The New Irving Berlin Musical (2016–2017)
He has also substituted in productions such as Cats, Phantom of the Opera, Grease, and Les Misérables.
Touring Experience:
* A Chorus Line (National Company, 1977; Japan Tour, 1986)
* Paul Anka East Coast Tour (1982)
* Debbie Reynolds Tour (1990)
* The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber (1991–1992)
* Jesus Christ Superstar (1994)
* South Pacific West Coast Tour (2002)
* Urinetown (2003–2004)
* Chicago (2006–2007)
Television Appearances:
* Miss America Pageant (1988–1991)
* Dick Clark’s Freedom Festival (1989)
* Merv Griffin's New Year's Eve (1990–1992)
* A&E’s Live by Request with Johnny Mathis (1997)
* PBS’s Wonderful, Wonderful with Johnny Mathis (2006)
Recording Collaborations:
Ed has recorded with labels such as Philadelphia International, Columbia, and Motown, working with artists including:
* Four Tops
* Spinners
* Temptations
* Patti LaBelle
* O'Jays
* Teddy Pendergrass
* Lou Rawls
* Stylistics
* James Ingram
* Deniece Williams
Film Contributions:
* The Fish That Saved Pittsburgh (1979)
* Staying Alive (1982)
* City Slickers (1991)
* Flirting with Disaster (1996)
Educational Background:
Ed studied at the Philadelphia Music Academy, graduating in 1972. He is also a professor of percussion at Seton Hall University, aiming to develop well-rounded percussionists and music educators.
🎧 Listen Now
Join us as Ed Shea shares his inspiring journey through the music industry. This episode offers valuable insights for musicians and enthusiasts alike.
Subscribe to Broadway Drumming 101 for more stories from master musicians like Ed!
Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, an in-depth online platform offering specialized mentorship and a carefully curated collection of resources tailored for aspiring and professional musicians.
Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include tick, tick…BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill, Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball, and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. As a skilled sub, he’s contributed his talents to Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. He has also appeared on major shows, including The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Borle, Norm Lewis, Deniece Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.
Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, Aquarian Drumheads, and Empire Ears in ear monitors.
Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com
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