"Mapex Drums provide rich, acoustic tone and responsiveness—perfect for improvisational music. The instrument breathes and reacts in real time, which inspires creativity every time I sit down to play."
STEVE FIDYK is a nationally recognized jazz drummer, composer, and educator, celebrated for his dynamic playing, musical depth, and versatility. He is a member of the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra and serves on the jazz faculty at both Temple University and the University of Maryland.
Fidyk’s professional journey began at just eight years old, performing alongside his father, saxophonist John Fidyk. He earned a degree in music education from Wilkes University and later studied with legendary drummer Joe Morello, whose mentorship had a lasting impact on his technique and teaching philosophy. For more than two decades, Fidyk was the drummer for the U.S. Army Blues Big Band in Washington, D.C., performing for world leaders and touring internationally.
A prolific recording artist, Fidyk appears on over 100 albums, including his own acclaimed releases Heads Up!, Allied Forces, Battle Lines, and Red Beats. He continues to lead his own quintet and tours regularly with vocalists Hailey Brinnel and Sergio Vellatti, bringing his distinctive sound to audiences across the country.
In addition to his performance work, Fidyk is a respected author and clinician. He is a regular contributor to Modern Drummer and serves as an educational consultant for Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Essentially Ellington program.
