Peter Erskine is an acclaimed American jazz drummer with a prolific career that has seen him perform with some of the most influential names in the music industry. Born on June 5, 1954, Erskine began playing the drums at a young age and honed his skills at the Interlochen Arts Academy before attending the Indiana University School of Music. His professional career took off when he joined the Stan Kenton Orchestra in the early 1970s, and he subsequently became a member of the renowned jazz-fusion band Weather Report in 1978, contributing to the group's innovative and esteemed recordings for four years.

Throughout his career, Erskine has showcased his versatile drumming style, which can range from subtle and sophisticated to powerful and dynamic. He has played on hundreds of albums and film scores and has collaborated with artists such as Joni Mitchell, Steely Dan, Diana Krall, and many more. As a bandleader, Erskine has released numerous albums that have earned critical acclaim, including those with his own groups like the Peter Erskine Trio and the Dr. Um Band. His extensive discography includes "Dr. Um," reflecting his foray into contemporary jazz sounds, the retrospective "As It Was," and several volumes of "New Jazz Standards," where he interprets the compositions of Carl Saunders. Peter Erskine is not only respected for his musicianship but also as an educator, having authored books on drumming and holding a professorship at the Thornton School of Music at the University of Southern California.

Genres

Contemporary Post-bop

Ecm-style Jazz

Jazz Drums

Jazz Fusion

Latest Release

ITSYAMO

Peter Erskine

Single - Released May 24, 2024