This week, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Danny Fischer — one of the most in-demand jazz drummers and educators in Australia. Danny spent a decade living and working in New York, playing with some of the world’s best musicians and building an incredible wealth of experience. He shared some brutally honest and often hilarious stories about what it was really like to be a jazz drummer in the world’s most competitive scene.

We also talked about his yoga practice and how it’s influenced both his drumming and the very practical challenge of carrying drums around New York. He opened up about the struggles and successes of his time overseas, what led him to move back to Melbourne, and how he brings a highly personalized approach to teaching—something I can personally vouch for, as he’s the best drum teacher I’ve ever had (and I’ve had some of the best!).

This chat was full of wisdom, humor, and insight into the reality of being a jazz musician. Don’t miss it!