The versatile drumming powerhouse Vernon J. has had his sticks in motion for more than 4 decades. He has worked tirelessly during that time to craft a unique drumming sound and style that stands out even among his peers. The music that flows through his veins is evident whether he has sticks in his hands, piano or organ keys under his fingers or a pencil as he scores a new piece of music.
Vernon J. began his musical journey at a very young age. He began playing the trumpet in church alongside his father Joseph(organist) and his brother Warren(bassist & guitarist). Being in a musically rich environment Vernon J. begin to understand rhythm, melody and harmonies. This understanding would continue to be strengthened and molded as Vernon J. matured. Though loving his instrument, Vernon J. had his eyes and ears on the drums. The drums provided young Vernon J. with new ways of musical expressions. Vernon J. became intrigued by the many sounds of the Hammond organ heard each week at church. Curiosity got the best of him as Vernon J. decided to follow in his father's footsteps by adding piano and organ to his list of instruments. Vernon J. has served as church organist/musical director for almost 30 years and is currently serving at Restoration Temple located in Allentown and is accompanied by his son Christopher(drummer). The sound of the Hammond organ, or pipe organ can be heard out front and will certainly help in lifting your spirit.
Many years have passed and Vernon J. continues to refine and expand his musical skills on all levels. In 2002 Vernon J. formed the band Fusion Jazz Trio. This award winning band has become a recognizable name throughout the Lehigh Valley and many other areas. Though Vernon J.'s primary first love is Fusion Jazz Trio, he very active as a regular or fill drummer for many Lehigh Valley bands such as The Artisan Trio, Keystone, Cunningham & Associates, Ginger & The Schnapps and artists/musicians such as Greg Farnese, Corinne Mammana, as Gene Perla(Miles Davis/Nina Simone), Richard Cummings(Harry Belafonte), Bakithi Kumalo(Paul Simon), Rio Clemente(The Bishop of Jazz) and a host of others.
Vernon J.’s musical talents go beyond just being a musician. His talents have allowed him to serve as a part-time faculty at DeSales University, an accompanist for the dance department, compose original music scores for individual dance performance pieces as well as several dance shows. For more details check out the composer page.
Regardless of the instrument, passionate music from the heart can always be found when Vernon J. is around.
