Meet Grifin DiNardo | Freelance Drummer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Grifin DiNardo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Grifin, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Why did I pursue an artistic career?

I ask myself that question most days. I think it boils down to a couple reasons but the main one being expression. I love being able to express myself though my own, or someone else’s music. Having the opportunity to put a piece of myself into each and everything I play musically is such a joy and I am so lucky to have this opportunity.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My whole idea behind what I do is pretty simple. I try to play exactly what the music needs, no more and no less.

I’ve been playing drums since I was 3 years old, so I’ve been playing drums for a little while now. My professional career started the moment I stepped foot on Berklee’s campus and I realize that this is what I need to do with my life. I played with bands and artists, but I can narrow down the jumping off point for my career to a very specific moment.

It was half way through COVID, I was living with my other Berklee roommates. I lived with another drummer and I always felt like I was 2nd to him. For one reason or another, imposter syndrome hit me hard when I was first at Berklee. We were jamming with some people and as we were hanging, somebody needed a drummer for a session. And I thought to myself, “This is my time to put myself forward.” It all came down to cutting a port hole in my bass drum. But I was willing to, so I got the gig.

That was the initial push that got me out of that imposter syndrome feeling and allowed myself to really believe that I can do this. From there, it has been a crazy experience of playing gigs, sessions, meeting great musicians/friends, but most importantly finding myself and having enough confidence to put myself out there.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Currently, I live in Boston, MA wrapping up my degree. First off I would take them to Mike’s Donuts in Mission Hill. That place has been a staple for me for the past two years. I’d try to take them to see as much live such as we can. Some important places to me have been: Wally’s Jazz Cafe, The Lilypad, and I cannot for get all of the Allston house shows. It’d be a trip to exploring the city to find the quirks and cute little spots that make this city unforgettable.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
This may sound cliche, but I have to give a huge shout out to my family. My folks and sister have done nothing but support me and all my endeavors. They are the best family I could have ever asked for and they are what keeps me going. I have to give another shout out to my wonderful friends; Ryan, Andrew, and Eric I want to thank you guys so so much for giving me your friendship. I am so appreciative of y’all.

I would not be the person I am today without these wonderful people in my life. Thank you, I love you.

Website: https://grifindinardo.com

Instagram: @grifindinardo

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grifindinardo/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6QPSMKI1BhIhTUOtYuctxA