Biography

DRU HELLER is an expressive, authentic, and joyful drummer, composer, and bandleader. His passionate playing and love for music has opened opportunities for him to perform and teach all over the country.

Known for his dynamic and interactive playing, his career spans over two decades. He has toured and recorded with some of the greatest musicians in jazz, including Don Byron, John Ellis, Ron Miles, Art Lande and Greg Osby. He was a featured performer on Don Byron’s original score for the American Masters (PBS) documentary of Lorraine Hansberry: Sighted Eyes Feeling Heart. His own quartets havereceived accolades and garnered attention from jazz enthusiasts worldwide, and he is a first-call drummer for the bandstands in the greater Denver area.

Dru is an engaged and empathetic teacher. He made his home in Denver, Colorado after he received a Master of Music degree from the University of Colorado. He has served as an artist-in-residence at multiple schools and festivals, and he is a music faculty member at Metropolitan State University of Denver and the University of Colorado- Denver. He is able to reach students of all ages and ability levels and maintains his own private studio.

On and off the bandstand, Dru is an active listener. His vibrant spirit can be felt and heard through the flick of his sticks or the wit and charm of his conversations.