In this episode, I’m joined by drummer and music theatre musician Kieran Rafferty.
We talk about his journey from learning piano, cello, and euphonium before finding his voice behind the drum kit, to winning Australia’s Best Up-and-Coming Drummer in 2013 and the professional work that he does now. Kieran shares his path from playing in teenage bands to performing on some of the biggest stages in the country — including supporting KISS at Rod Laver Arena and playing to 85,000 people at the MCG.
We also discuss the demands of professional music theatre, performing in productions like The Rocky Horror Show, Sister Act, Wicked, and Hadestown, and what it’s like playing eight shows a week.
A grounded and insightful look into the discipline, consistency, and craft behind life as a professional drummer.