Life & Work with Sergio Arocha of Los Angeles & Boston

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sergio Arocha

Hi Sergio, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I purchased my first drum-set back in 2004 after years of playing on pots & pans. By the age of 16 I had started a couple metal bands, but it would be in 2009 when I joined a professional organization called Nonsense Premonition, playing with this band allowed me to perform on prominent stages, opening for many U.S. acts.

My work with them earned me recognition in Colombia’s metal scene leading into opportunities like performing as a live session drummer for Heartless, a renowned Post-Hardcore band and many other bands.

Simultaneously, I showcased my versatility by playing in the Latin Jazz Orchestra at Universidad de San Buenaventura in Bogota where I pursued my first undergraduate degree majoring in Sound and Acoustics Engineering.

In 2014, I auditioned for the prestigious Berklee College of Music and relocated to Boston, Massachusetts, to major in Performance. Fully committed to mastering the art of drumming, I immersed myself in rigorous practice and explored a wide range of musical styles. I owe much of my growth to the guidance and mentorship of exceptional instructors such as Dave DiCenso, Neal Smith, James Murphy, Jerry Leake and the legendary Ralph Peterson Jr., among others. In 2020, I earned my Bachelor of Music, a milestone that paved the way for obtaining my first O-1B visa for extraordinary ability.

Shortly thereafter, I was awarded a full scholarship to pursue a Master’s in Jazz & Contemporary Music at Longy School of Music of Bard College, where I graduated in 2024 as a graduate fellow. This transformative period not only deepened my artistic vision but also led to my second artist visa, allowing me to continue contributing to the global music scene as a drummer of exceptional caliber.

Transitioning from a metal background to a jazz-focused drumming style has profoundly expanded my musical perspective. This evolution has afforded me the privilege of performing alongside renowned jazz artists such as Dr. Bill Banfield & the Imagine Orchestra, Charlie Kohlhase, Kevin Harris, Noah Preminger, Nando Michelin, and many other esteemed musicians in the jazz world.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The journey has had its share of ups and downs, but the greatest challenge has been overcoming my own mind and letting go of the relentless pursuit of perfection. At Berklee, there was an unspoken atmosphere of competition that could easily consume you.

Like many of my fellow drummers from 171 Mass Ave and Fordham Road Berklee practice rooms, I dedicated countless hours—sometimes up to 15 a day—practicing relentlessly and pushing my limits. While this discipline was invaluable, it also taught me the critical importance of balance and the necessity of discovering my own voice beyond the chase for technical perfection. It’s an ongoing journey; I’m still working on this to this day, constantly starting from scratch while recognizing how far I’ve already come.

Letting go of the past has also been, to some extent, quite hard at times. But playing my instrument has become therapeutic for me.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
For years, I’ve focused on developing advanced coordination, including incorporating the use of my voice into my drumming. This dedication allows me to effortlessly lay down intricate, multi-layered grooves within seconds. My studies have taken me deep into the world of West African rhythms and jazz comping, both of which have profoundly shaped my approach to music. In 2023, I had the honor of winning a drum contest hosted by the renowned Drum Channel, a milestone that marked a shift in my focus towards groove and phrasing.

During my metal years, I developed and mastered a unique double-stroke technique in three distinct styles: heel-toe, my own variation, and slide double strokes, showcasing my adaptability.

Outside of music, I’m also a semi-professional arm wrestler, member of the glorious Arsenal of Arms Team from Boston, MA, a passion that reflects my drive to embrace challenges in all areas of life. I’m proud of my ability to set aside ego and continually push myself to learn, practice, and master anything I see as a challenge—whether in music or life itself.

We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
I’ve always believed in thinking critically and not simply following the masses or buying into the hype. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I chose not to get vaccinated, standing firm in my decision to question the mechanisms of control that were being imposed. For me, it’s essential to think independently and stay true to my principles, even when it feels like the whole world is against you.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/surgedrums
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/surgedrums
• LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/surgedrums
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/surgedrums