Brett Greenwood is a versatile drummer whose musical journey spans a wide range of genres, from all types of rock and metalcore to jazz, fusion, hip-hop, LoFi, blues, pop, and more. To the dismay of his parents, Brett’s earliest influences were bands like System of a Down, Korn, and Limp Bizkit, cultivating a passion for hard-hitting rhythms and intricate grooves. Later, he expanded his musical vocabulary through formal study, working under
renowned drummer and educator Lloyd Martin. During his time at university, Brett honed his skills in jazz, rock, and fusion while developing a deeper, philosophical understanding of music and its emotional impact.
Drawing inspiration from drumming greats such as Benny Greb, Gavin Harrison, Larnell Lewis, and Matt Gartska, as well as influential producers like Hans Zimmer, Timbaland, and Rick Rubin, Brett brings a unique blend of precision, creativity, and emotional depth to his playing. Whether he's performing with a jazz ensemble, laying down solid grooves in high-end pop venues, or powering through heavy rock and metalcore gigs, Brett is known for hisadaptability and commitment to musical expression.
As a teacher, Brett believes that musical growth often comes through moments of epiphany - those flashes of understanding that elevate a player’s ability and deepen their connection to
the music. His teaching philosophy is built on the idea that while mastering rudiments and technical patterns is essential, it’s equally, if not more, important to understand why to play something. Through this approach, students not only study applying rudiments and turning patterns into chops, but also learn to understand when and why to use those chops to serve the music. Brett emphasizes the power of dynamics in music - teaching students how to create contrast by adding or subtracting elements, and how to bring a sense of movement and storytelling into their playing.