ABOUT
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Darryl Kniffen's creativity is apparent in all aspects of life, from creating original instruments from recycled materials with his students at school, to composing inventive pieces that push the boundaries of jazz and rock. Darryl Kniffen is an exceptionally creative, passionate, and innovative drummer/educator/composer.
Darryl is one of today’s most innovative music educators. He takes pride in designing music learning experiences that help students achieve their own personal musical goals and become life-long music participants. Students in Darryl’s classroom can be seen creating music videos, composing innovative pieces with electronic and acoustic instruments, and performing a variety of music from classical to rap. In September of 2016, Darryl was named Outstanding Teacher of The Year from the University of Vermont. Upon nomination, principal Tim Stewart stated “In addition to teaching and organizing every aspect of the school band program, Darryl is always working to ensure that the individual music needs of his students are met. Because of Darryl’s encouragement, enthusiasm and genuine love for music, AMHS students will appreciate music throughout their lifetime.” Darryl currently teaches instrumental music and general music at Stoneman Elementary in Pittsburg, CA. Previously he taught instrumental music and music technology at Arlington Memorial High School in Arlington, VT and taught Jazz Ensemble at SUNY Adirondack in Queensbury, NY. Before Arlington Memorial High School, Darryl led the music program at Twin Valley Elementary School in Wilmington, VT.
Darryl continues to explore uncharted territory with his unique compositions and innovative drumming. Whether he's performing with his high-octane jazz fusion group Planet Kniffen or with an intimate piano trio, Darryl creates a wonderfully passionate and expressive performance. Eugene Uman, head of the Vermont Jazz Center, says of Kniffen: "He's one of the most sensitive drummers I've ever worked with." Of his compositions, Uman says, "He knows how to create an arc, to take listeners on a musical journey, with all the parts clear while maintaining a swinging pulse." In addition to leading Planet Kniffen, Darryl remains a busy freelance drummer. He has performed with numerous artists including Chilean vocalist Natalia Bernal, Emmy award-winning guitarist/composer Freddy Shehadi, jazz trumpeter Richard Boulger, Saturday Night Live saxophonist Alex Foster, pianist/composer Eugene Uman (director of Vermont Jazz Center, Eugene Uman's Convergence Project), pianist Peter Primamore (The Today Show), trombonist Maximillian Sholl (PitchBlak Brass Band), alto saxophonist Jake Whitesell (Kat Wright), and jazz vocalist Jeanine Marie Ouderkirk. |
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