Artists

 Rob Thurman- Navigator

Rob has been performing and educating in the Buffalo/ Niagara region for 40+ years. As a founding member of progressive rock recording artist – NAVIGATOR, Rob’s dynamic drumming can be heard on the bands three studio recordings. Rob also performs with Niagara Falls music Hall of fame inductees -The Thurman Brothers band as well as the highly acclaimed tribute to Led Zeppelin
– Out on the Tiles.

As an educator, Rob founded the Drum Logic Studio and has been one of WNY’s leaders in drum set instruction with over 40 years of private instruction to his credit.

 

Dom Ciaccia – Live & Session Drummer

Ironically, Dom Ciaccia’s music career did not begin behind a drum kit but with a saxophone. His passion for drumming ignited in seventh grade during a school jazz ensemble rehearsal when a trombone player was unexpectedly called up to play 25 or 6 to 4 by Chicago on drums. As Dom watched in amazement, his saxophone forgotten in his hands, he knew in that moment that he had to play. Though his parents initially denied his request for a drum set, fate intervened when his brother received one for Christmas. However, it was Dom who spent endless hours behind it, jamming for up to five hours a day to every cassette and CD he could find.

After two years of self-teaching, Dom’s parents enrolled him in private drum instruction, where he refined his technique, mastering rudiments, syncopation, independence, and proper ergonomics. Under formal guidance, he developed the precision and endurance required for high-energy performances. For four years, he dedicated himself to weekly lessons, simultaneously playing in every school band possible and forming original projects outside of school. His commitment earned him the Louis Armstrong Jazz Award upon graduating in 2003.

 

Following high school, Dom went on to perform professionally in multiple cover bands and original acts, contributing to numerous studio recordings and playing stages from New York to California. Now with 27 years of drumming experience, he is recognized for his powerful and dynamic playing across various styles of music. He currently drives the rhythm for the Rochester, NY-based cover band Acoustic Brew, regularly fills in for other local groups, and is actively building a YouTube channel featuring drum playthrough videos.

Dom proudly plays Tukstickz, a brand that aligns perfectly with the foundational principles he learned in private instruction. Their red hickory drumsticks provide unmatched durability, superior balance, and an eye-catching aesthetic, standing up to the demands of his hard-hitting style while reinforcing the importance of technique, control, and endurance—elements that have shaped his playing from the very beginning.

Jeff Ward – Mr. Brightside

Jeff is a passionate drummer with over 20 years of experience in the music industry. Known for his dynamic performances and innovative drumming style, Jeff, along with his band “Mr. Brightside – The Ultimate Killers Experience” consisting of Niagara Falls Music Hall of Fame inductees and former Billboard-charting members, have captivated audiences throughout the Buffalo and Western New York area. His dedication to pushing the boundaries of drumming and inspiring others through music has earned him recognition among peers and fans alike. Jeff is thrilled to partner with Turksticks to continue sharing their passion and craft with.

 
Leo Gästle – Heaven and Hot Rods
 
Leo is a professional drummer from Buffalo, New York, whose deep passion for rhythm and performance has fueled a lifelong journey through music. With an instinctive feel for groove and an unmistakable presence behind the kit, Leo has earned a reputation as a dynamic, reliable, and commanding force on stage.
Leo’s love for drumming began at a young age, inspired by the raw energy of rock and the emotional intensity of live performance. Over the years, he honed his craft through relentless practice, national gigs, and collaborations with a wide range of musicians, eventually carving out a name for himself in Western New York’s vibrant music scene.
One of Leo’s most recognized projects is Heaven and Hot Rods, a tribute band dedicated to the iconic sound of Stone Temple Pilots. Known for electrifying live shows, the band has drawn large crowds, including a standout performance at Gratwick Park in North Tonawanda, where they played to an audience of over 5,000. with Leo driving the energy from behind his drum kit.
Whether he’s performing rock, alternative, or experimental styles, his playing is always tight, tasteful, and passionate.
In addition to his band work, Leo frequently collaborates with various acts across genres, showcasing his adaptability and deep musical intuition. He approaches every performance with the same goal: to connect with the audience and serve the song.
Leo uses, Ludwig Drums, Paiste Cymbals and TurkstickZ exclusively.

Lon Thompson 

Lon Thompson is a session and touring Drummer from New port Richey Florida now living in Lynchburg Virginia. 
Lon started playing drums at the age of 3 in his parents church. In 4th grade he was encouraged and supported by his music teacher Henry Fletcher to invest more time into playing. 

As years went by he did just that with lessons and taking every opportunity to play out. Through his teens and early 20’s Lon played in local bands in the Tampa Bay area. At 22 had the opportunity hit the national stage with ccm recording artist Inside the outside. After a time with the band he became the touring drummer for solo Artist and wholetones founder Micheal Tyrrell. 

Over the years Lon has played with multiple recording artist and has most recently been in the studio with up and coming artist Kiah Bernardo. Lon also has projects with artist J.S Earls and Lomark Otero coming. 

“I’m extremely honored to be a part of the Turkstickz family! A drumstick that exemplifies the quality I want to represent as a drummer.

Nathan Ziehm
 
Born and raised in Niagara Falls NY, I started playing kit at a young age. It wasn’t until high school where I knew for sure I wanted to play the drums for a living. After high school, I studied music in college and graduated with a Bachelor’s in Music Performance, with an emphasis in percussion. While in college, I was lucky enough to study with drummer extraordinaire Tim Pope, one of the drummers for Ray Charles.
 
Currently, I am a freelance musician and drum instructor in Dallas/ Fort Worth Texas. I’ve played with great players in and out of the DFW region which include Lance Lopez, Charlie Crockett, Zac Wilkerson, Mike Tuck (Pat Green), Tennessee Jet, Ryan Berg (The Voice), Michael Lee (B. B. Kings Blues Band), Leon Bridges, Kayla Reeves (Trans-Siberian Orchestra), Jim Suhler (George Thorogood), 5 time Grammy winner Tim Alexander (Asleep at the Wheel), Andy Timmons, opened up for Dwight Yoakam, Cody Jinks and many more! My biggest accomplishment to date was playing Red Rocks in Morrison Colorado. With a love of music, performance and entertainment, I am always looking to develop, create, and share my music and art with the world.