In the next episode of Broadway Drumming 101, we are excited to showcase Skyler Fortgang, the talented drummer currently leading the rhythm of The Great Gatsby on Broadway. Skyler takes us through his journey, sharing how his diverse experience, from subbing on shows like Paradise Square and A Strange Loop to performing at renowned venues like Paper Mill Playhouse, prepared him for his current role.
He discusses the varied musical styles in The Great Gatsby and how the show's musical demands keep him creatively engaged.
Skyler's story is one of perseverance and adaptability. It proves that being open to various musical opportunities can lead to landing a dream gig on Broadway. Whether you're an aspiring drummer or a theater enthusiast, Skyler's insights offer a valuable perspective on the hustle and artistry behind the scenes.
Take advantage of this episode, releasing on August 17th. Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Skyler Fortgang is a drummer/percussionist, producer, keyboard programmer, and music director based in New York City.
He has played in a variety of Broadway, Off-Broadway, touring, and regional theater productions and recorded for many artists across a wide array of genres. He appears on multiple albums with artists like Cristina, The Other Lovers, Skylar Pocket, Kathleen Elle, Andre Molina, and more.
Skyler is a diverse musician, proficient in all areas of percussion, including drumset hand percussion, mallet percussion, and classical percussion, specializing in musical theater percussion and drumset performance.
In addition to being a percussionist, he has extensive experience in music direction and conducting and a proficient knowledge of industry-standard performance software such as Mainstage and Ableton.
He holds a B.M. in Percussion Performance from Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University (2019), studying under Joseph Tompkins, Javier Diaz, Kyle Zerna, and Mike Truesdell.
Clayton Craddock is the founder of Broadway Drumming 101, a comprehensive online platform dedicated to providing specialized mentorship and a meticulously curated collection of resources.
Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include: tick, tick...BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day At Emerson's Bar and Grill, and Ain't Too Proud - The Life And Times Of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. He has subbed for shows like Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, Spongebob Squarepants - The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. Clayton has appeared on The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Boyle, Norm Lewis, Denise Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.
Clayton is a proud endorser of Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.
For more about Clayton Craddock, click here: www.claytoncraddock.com
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Skyler Fortgang: Behind the Drums of The Great Gatsby