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One For McGriff

Towner Galaher Organ Trio

1:45 5:11

Experience the Rhythm

Innovative Jazz Expression Through Percussion

Towner Galaher
50+ Years of Experience
100+ International Performances
6 Albums Released
8000+ Students Mentored

"Rhythm is not just about keeping time; it's about creating a conversation through the language of music."

— Towner Galaher

Latest News

MAY 15

New Album Announcement

Excited to announce that recording sessions for the new album will begin next month. Stay tuned for updates on this rhythmic journey.

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APR 27

Summer Workshop Series

Registration now open for the summer workshop series focusing on advanced rhythmic concepts and improvisational techniques.

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APR 12

European Tour Dates

Just confirmed a series of performances in major European jazz venues this fall. Check the performance schedule for cities and dates.

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Biography

Jazz Traditions & Modern Explorations
Towner Galaher Drummer

Master of Rhythm & Composition

Towner Galaher is an accomplished jazz drummer, composer, bandleader, arranger, and educator based in New York. With decades of performance experience and a deep knowledge of jazz traditions, Towner has established himself as a versatile musician who bridges classic organ trio sounds with contemporary jazz expressions.

His musical journey began with mentors like Mel Brown, who introduced him to jazz and inspired his appreciation for legends like John Coltrane and Miles Davis. Under the guidance of Mike Clark, Towner developed his skills as both a professional drummer and a dedicated music educator.

Towner leads several ensembles including the acclaimed Towner Galaher Organ Trio, which has performed at prominent venues across the United States. His recordings showcase his technical prowess and musical sensitivity, earning him recognition in the jazz community.

Beyond his performance career, Towner is passionate about music education, working with students around the world and developing innovative teaching methods. His book "Coordination Development for the Drum Set" represents his commitment to passing on his knowledge to the next generation of musicians.

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Performances

Upcoming Shows & Tour Dates
Patrick's Place performance

Towner Galaher Organ Trio ft. Seydurah Avecmoi

June 6, 2024 | 7PM - 11PM

Patrick's Place, New York

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Patrick's Place performance

Towner Galaher Organ Trio ft. Seydurah Avecmoi

June 20, 2024 | 7PM - 11PM

Patrick's Place, New York

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Jazz Club performance

Jazz in the Square

July 15, 2024 | 8PM

Blue Note, New York

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Recordings

Albums & Collaborations
Towner Galaher Organ Trio LIVE

Towner Galaher Organ Trio LIVE

Released: 2007

Featuring: Towner Galaher (Drums), Lonnie Gasperini (Hammond B-3 Organ), Marvin Horne (Guitar)

Courageous Hearts

Towner Galaher Organ Trio LIVE

Released: 2009

Featuring: Towner Galaher (Drums), Lonnie Gasperini (Hammond B-3 Organ), Marvin Horne (Guitar)

Downbeat Magazine

October 2020

Education

Inspiring the Next Generation

Empowering Young Musicians

Towner Galaher is passionately committed to music education across cultures and continents. His innovative teaching approach combines technical fundamentals with cultural context and creative expression, making drumming accessible to students of all backgrounds.

Through his "Coordination Development for the Drum Set" method, Towner has created a systematized approach to building drumming proficiency that has helped countless students advance their skills.

In recent years, Towner has extended his teaching to international programs in Kenya, working with children to develop their musical abilities while fostering cultural exchange through the universal language of rhythm.

Whether teaching private lessons, workshops, masterclasses, or community programs, Towner approaches education with the same dedication and artistry that characterizes his performance career.

Explore Programs
Teaching drums Workshop Students playing Masterclass

Videos

Performance Highlights
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Towner Galaher Organ Trio Live at Jazz Standard

Performance highlights featuring classic organ trio repertoire and original compositions that showcase the ensemble's dynamic interplay and rhythmic mastery.

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Drum Solo Compilation

Selected solo performances showcasing rhythmic creativity and technical virtuosity across various venues and musical contexts.

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Teaching Drumming in Kenya

Documentary about music education initiatives bringing rhythm and musical expression to young students across cultural boundaries.

Essays

Thoughts on Music & Rhythm

The Evolution of the Jazz Organ Trio

Published: March 2023

An exploration of how the classic jazz organ trio format has evolved from its roots in the 1950s through the present day, with reflections on the innovations of pioneers like Jimmy Smith and Jack McDuff.

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Rhythmic Concepts Across Cultures

Published: November 2022

A comparative study of drumming traditions from West Africa, the Caribbean, and American jazz, examining how different cultural approaches to rhythm can inform and enrich a contemporary drummer's vocabulary.

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The Role of the Drummer as Bandleader

Published: June 2022

Reflections on the challenges and opportunities presented when drummers step into leadership roles, with historical examples from Art Blakey to Brian Blade and personal experiences leading various ensembles.

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Contact

Get in Touch

Let's Connect

inrhythmnyc@yahoo.com

+1 (917) 640-8029

New York, NY

For booking inquiries, educational programs, or general questions, please use the contact form or reach out directly via email or phone. I'm always interested in new performance opportunities, collaborations, and teaching engagements.