Dave DiCenso

Position
Professor
Affiliated Departments
Telephone
617-747-8452

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Dave DiCenso has worked in a diverse array of musical contexts from hardcore and prog rock to rock, pop, jazz fusion, funk, and soul. Along with his chameleon-like approach, he is known for his individual sound, musicality, and animated performances. He has also excelled in the field of education and is considered one of the great players and teachers of our time.

Career Highlights
  • Performed and/or recorded with Josh Groban, Hiromi, John Petrucci (Dream Theater) Duran Duran, and Steve Morse Band, among many others
  • Recordings include Another Mind by Hiromi, Suspended Animation by John Petrucci, Remember When It Rained by Josh Groban, Medazzaland by Duran Duran, and Alpha Omega by Cro-Mags, among many others
  • Television appearances include The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Jimmy Kimmel Live, CSI New York, Live at Lincoln Center, and Dancing with the Stars, among many others
  • Publications include Rhythm and Drumming Demystified (Censian), and Universal Rhythms for Drumset (Alfred)
     
In Their Own Words

"My teaching philosophy is, wherever applicable, to teach the whole student. While technique, reading, vocabulary, timing, and listening are crucial, all great musicians come to a point where we must transcend the limitations of the instrument, where we must address the instrument that plays the instrument. We must strive not only to be proficient in music, but in life. I help students on both sides of that equation."

"I have performed all over the world, from the smallest stages to the biggest, with many different people, and in many styles of music. I have found, lost, and found myself again, more than once. I've been a professional musician since age 15, and I bring all of my experience in the world of music to my teaching, with the goal being to help my students become their best version of themselves."