Paul Van de Riet

     Paul Van de Riet, originally from St. Louis, Missouri, grew up playing Beatles’ songs on a bed and some pillows with his brother Dave until his parents realized Paul was obsessed with drumming and signed him up for some lessons. He studied drums for several years before becoming interested in classical percussion and piano in college, eventually becoming Principal Timpanist for the St. Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra and also Guest Artist with the nationally acclaimed St. Louis Brass Band. In 2002, Paul decided to focus on drumset again and moved to Los Angeles to attend the LA Music Academy, studying under Ralph Humphrey and Joe Porcaro, and most recently with Steve Ferrone. After playing mostly rock, big band, and Brazilian gigs around LA, he began playing country, opening up for Clint Black and Neal McCoy, leading him to meet the Merchants of Moonshine.