Larry Aberman is a dynamic and accomplished drummer whose extensive career spans classical, jazz, rock, and theatrical music, featuring collaborations with legendary artists like Stevie Ray Vaughan and Wynton Marsalis. Currently a prominent performer with Cirque du Soleil's "Zumanity," Aberman showcases his versatility and skill across diverse musical landscapes.
Larry Aberman is a versatile and accomplished drummer whose career spans multiple genres and prestigious collaborations. His extensive musical journey has taken him from classical percussion to rock, jazz, and theatrical performances.
Larry Aberman was born into a musical family in Center City Philadelphia, with a musician mother who ensured he was always surrounded by music. Despite this musical environment, he initially struggled to find an instrument he connected with until discovering drums at the age of ten when his brother's band left a drum kit in their house.
His formal musical education began in New York City, where he attended the prestigious High School of Music and Art, studying under Justin DiCioccio, who would become his lifelong mentor. Aberman continued his education at the Eastman School of Music, where he studied with renowned educators John Beck (percussion) and Rayburn Wright (jazz studies). Later in his career, he also earned a master's degree in jazz performance from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV).
Throughout his career, Larry Aberman has worked with an impressive array of musical talents across various genres:
His versatility is evident in his work with artists spanning jazz, rock, pop, and country genres, demonstrating his adaptability and comprehensive drumming skills.
For over a decade, Larry Aberman has been the drummer for Cirque du Soleil's Las Vegas production "Zumanity" at the New York-New York Hotel and Casino. This long-running engagement showcases his ability to perform consistently at the highest level in a demanding theatrical environment.
Beyond live performances, Aberman has established himself as a sought-after session drummer:
In addition to his work in popular music genres, Aberman has performed as a featured percussion soloist with the New York Philharmonic at Avery Fisher Hall, demonstrating his classical percussion abilities.
Larry Aberman's drumming style has been shaped by diverse influences including Sterling Campbell, Brian Blade, Elvin Jones, Stewart Copeland, Steve Jordan, Amir "?uestlove" Thompson, and Al Foster. This eclectic mix of influences reflects his versatility across musical genres.
While maintaining his position with Cirque du Soleil's "Zumanity" in Las Vegas, Aberman continues to travel to Los Angeles for session work and records for various projects from his home studio. His ongoing career demonstrates both stability in his theatrical work and continued engagement with diverse recording projects.
Larry Aberman's career exemplifies the journey of a versatile musician who has successfully navigated multiple musical worlds, from classical percussion to jazz, rock, and theatrical performance, establishing himself as a respected drummer across genres.
