BIOGRAPHY
Sam Ruttenberg, born November 19, 1955 in Philadelphia, PA, is an American drummer and percussionist, best known for his educational endeavors as well as being the inventor of the Vic Firth Hingestix.
Ruttenberg received his Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Miami and a Masters of Music from the Juilliard School.
Throughout his music career, Ruttenberg has performed with such artists as Dave Brubeck, Count Basie, Lionel Hampton, Lena Horne, Perry Como, Al Martino, Bing Crosby, Barbara Eden, and Charo. He performs regularly with the Pennsylvania Ballet, the Opera Company of Philadelphia, the Delaware Symphony, Orchestra 2001, and his own jazz trio.
Ruttenberg has toured and recorded with the Houston Symphony, Ballet, and Pops Orchestras, performing at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Radio City Music Hall, and the Kennedy Center. He currently teaches at the Settlement Music School in Philadelphia, Rutgers University Camden, and his home studio. He is an active teacher and clinician, has taught professionals as well as some of the most promising talent in the Philadelphia area, including Justin Faulkner, drummer of the Branford Marsalis Quartet.
Sam Ruttenberg has written articles for PAS Percussive Notes, Modern Drummer Magazine and Drummer Cafe. He's also published his own book entitled Drum Tips (HoneyRock 2009), which is designed to help drummers develop better technique and coordination through increased musicianship. Ruttenberg worked with Jor Morello, transcribing and working closely on the creative aspect with Morello on his book, Master Studies II.
In 2009, Ruttenberg designed and patented HingeStix® practice drumsticks, which is a learning tool for drummers to better feel the rebound, develop finger technique, hold the stick properly, and feel the whipping motion of the Moeller technique. The Hingestix was licensed by Vic Firth, Inc. in 2013.
Want to study with Sam Ruttenberg? Click HERE.
