THIS week we chat with percussionist Lazare Agneskis, who many people would know as the drums\/percussion teacher at Crusoe College and Eaglehawk Secondary College as part of the Bendigo Instrumental Music Program.<\/p>\n
What motivated you to take up percussion?<\/strong><\/p>\n My mother Mary-Jo Kelly being a music teacher and my uncle, singer\/songwriter Paul Kelly, were both obviously very inspiring and influential.<\/p>\n I was lucky to watch my uncle\u2019s shows from side of stage and would play along using sticks given to me by (his) drummer Michael Barclay.<\/p>\n Going to these shows and also my mother\u2019s gigs, who played piano, was exciting and inspired me to be on stage in a band.<\/p>\n I was drawn to the groove and rhythms of drumming, and enjoyed the physical nature of the instrument.<\/p>\n How would you describe your style?<\/strong><\/p>\n Growing up in Melbourne I was exposed to many styles of music.<\/p>\n I started drumming lessons at Footscray City College with Sam Oliveri who guided me through VCE music.<\/p>\n Then at tertiary level I studied with Gerry Pantazis who helped me develop into a more \u2018serious\u2019 drummer.<\/p>\n I feel very fortunate to have performed with some of Australia\u2019s most talented musicians including Dan Sultan, Dan Kelly, Pablo Discobar, Diafrix and Kate Vigo.<\/p>\n A lot of my performing career has been with Latin bands around Melbourne.<\/p>\n When I was 18 my mum took me on a music study trip to Cuba, so since then I\u2019ve always had a passion for afro Cuban and Latin music.<\/p>\n In 2002 I started a Latin band called \u2018San Lazaro\u2019 which had some success, touring big festivals around Australia, performing on national TV and getting airplay on Triple J.<\/p>\n Completing an Honours degree in Music Performance at VCA was a great way for me to meet other dedicated musicians and develop my style.<\/p>\n Which other percussionists inspire you?<\/strong><\/p>\n Jon Bonham, being such a natural and creative drummer.<\/p>\n Dave Grohl, the first drummer I truly looked up to as a teenager and continues to inspire my students today.<\/p>\n Steve Gadd the session master – every drummer can appreciate how versatile Gadd is, comfortable playing any style including pop\/rock\/funk\/jazz\/latin.<\/p>\n What are some highlights you have from your career so far?<\/strong><\/p>\n Bluesfest Byron Bay, WOMAD and Queenscliff music festivals with San Lazaro. Playing in front of thousands of people who are dancing to your own songs is an incredible feeling.<\/p>\n Falls Festival with Dan Sultan, St Kilda Festival with Dan Kelly, Myer Music Bowl with Pablo Discobar.<\/p>\n Can people check out your work online?<\/p>\n My productions and recordings are on Soundcloud – zarkismusic.<\/p>\n