Derek Sherinian's Early Years
Derek Sherinian was born on August 25, 1966, in the beautiful coastal city of Laguna Beach, California. Growing up in a vibrant musical environment, Sherinian was exposed to a wide array of musical influences from a young age. His passion for music blossomed when he started playing the piano as a child, later diving into various genres such as rock, jazz, and classical. This diverse background laid the foundation for his future contributions to the music industry.
Early Influences on Derek Sherinian
As a child, Sherinian was influenced by notable artists and bands such as Elton John and Deep Purple, which shaped his keyboard skills and compositional style. His commitment to mastering the piano led him to study at the prestigious Berklee College of Music. There, he honed his craft and developed a unique sound that would later earn him recognition within the progressive rock genre.
Derek Sherinian's Education and Training
Sherinian's time at Berklee allowed him to meet and collaborate with other talented musicians, further expanding his network and capabilities. His dedication to learning and ambition prompted him to embrace various elements of keyboard playing, including the use of synthesizers and advanced techniques, which would be integral to his later works.
Derek Sherinian's Musical Career
Following his studies, Sherinian's professional career took flight when he joined the iconic band Dream Theater in 1994. His impressive skills as a keyboardist and composer contributed significantly to the band's success, particularly on their album Falling Into Infinity. His time with Dream Theater cemented his status as a formidable player in the progressive metal scene. Subsequently, he founded Sons Of Apollo, showcasing his versatility and continuous evolution as a musician.
Derek Sherinian with Dream Theater
During his tenure with Dream Theater, Sherinian made a lasting impact on their sound. His innovative use of keyboards brought a new dimension to the band’s music, evident in their intricate compositions and orchestrations. This position helped propel him into the limelight and established him as one of the genre's premier keyboardists.
Derek Sherinian's Journey with Sons Of Apollo
After parting ways with Dream Theater, Sherinian co-founded Sons Of Apollo in 2017. The band features renowned musicians, including former members of Dream Theater, and showcases an eclectic mix of hard rock and progressive metal influences. Their debut album, Psychotic Symphony, received acclaim, underscoring Sherinian's evolving artistry and collaboration with fellow musicians.
Fun Fact
Derek Sherinian’s Uncommon Instrument
A fun fact about Derek Sherinian is that he is known for his exceptional use of the Hammond organ, which he blends into his progressive rock performances, giving his music a distinctive sound that stands apart from conventional keyboards.
Additional Resources
Recommended Reading on Derek Sherinian
For those looking to delve deeper into the world of Derek Sherinian, consider exploring his works such as Joyride and Oceana. These albums showcase his unique style and contribute to the understanding of his musical journey.