Meet Ted Kelliher | Drum Instructor

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

Hi Ted, what role has risk played in your life or career?
When risk is involved, people tend to focus on what’s at stake and end up not pursuing their dreams. But risk also brings opportunities and learning experiences! Even if the risk you take feels like a loss, then learn to let go and continue on your path. As long as your vision is clear and your intentions are good, the only obstacle in your way is if you decide to give up. Risk has been a positive experience in my life. It has taught me to trust myself and the process and even the pitfalls.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
You’ll develop your technique, coordination, grooves, fills, timing, speed, dynamics. If you need it, we’ll cover it. And now that lockdown is lifting, you can schedule in person lessons, though online is still an option. I love that I can play (in three bands) and teach! Not all musicians can do that.
The biggest challenge through all this was to stop thinking about doing it and actually get up and do it. The beauty is that it got me out of my comfort zone and forced me to be creative. I’ve learned that success is equivalent to the reaches you go beyond your comfort zone, and I’m willing to keep going there for myself, band mates, students, and family.

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.
In Huntington Beach Johnny’s Saloon is a must for top shelf whisky and gourmet pizza. Beach Hut Deli is a go-to if you’re in the mood for a top notch deli sandwich and a beer. In LA, Fred 62’s has everything from breakfast to dinner and gluten free/vegan options. For dessert I recommend a Punk-Tart (their homemade take on Pop-Tarts) or a Guinness float. Yup! The combo works!
For sights, hike at Griffith Park and catch a show at the Samuel Oschin Planetarium in the Observatory. And if you’re into antiquity, The Getty Villa in the Pacific Palisades is a step into ancient Greece and Rome.
For live music, The Greek Theatre (also at Griffith Park), The Troubadour, The Viper Room, Harvelle’s, and The Mint,

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Those who deserve a dedication to my success are endless. Shout out to:
My parents for their ongoing encouragement
My family for their support and flexibility
My bands: Angela Petrilli and the Players, Fused by Defiance, and Thou Shall Doubt
My drum students
Red Hare Images for the great photos
Left Coast Label
Salt Drums, Soultone Cymbals, and Los Cabos Drumsticks
Joseph Cambell and his book Pathways to Bliss

Instagram: @teddykelliher

Other: https://www.instagram.com/fusedbydefiance/ https://www.facebook.com/FusedByDefiance/ https://www.youtube.com/user/FusedByDefiance https://www.thoushalldoubt.com/ https://www.instagram.com/thoushalldoubt/ https://www.facebook.com/ThouShallDoubt/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHtW-YVml7wpCbTgt8N7YpA

Image Credits
Red Hare Images