Shilo Stroman is a musical chameleon determined to fit into any musical situation supported by his wide range of musical talent, a laid back attitude, and a desire to push himself artistically. His thirst for performing began at the age of 5 when his parents purchased a toy drum set. Armed with his dad’s record collection, an empty basement, and chopsticks as drumsticks, the journey began. He continues on this path with a diverse schedule of performing, composing, and teaching.
A versatile performer, Shilo's credits range from playing triangle in symphony orchestras, electric bass in salsa bands, drums in funk bands, and flower pots in chamber groups. Performing originals, Red Hot Chili Pepper covers, and the occasional country tune, Shilo's contemporary jazz quartet, Square Peg, released their first recording, Searching, in 2013. In 2006, he commissioned and performed the world premiere of Sticks and Stones variations for drum set and wind ensemble by Jim Bonney. Shilo can also be heard on various jazz and singer/songwriter recordings.
As an educator, Shilo is adjunct instructor of percussion and jazz at Colorado State University where he teaches lessons, freshman percussion ensemble, drumline, jazz pedagogy, and leads the Jazz combo program. Shilo is also very active in the marching arts and has worked with the Blue Knights World Percussion Ensemble, Longmont High School, and currently with Fossil Ridge High School, Loveland High School, Dakota Ridge High School, and The Battalion Drum and Bugle Corp. Shilo's company, Invert Percussion, was formed to support band directors with show design, arrangements, and the hiring and training of instructional staff.
Shilo's love of travel and sharing his passion for music education has led him to presenting clinics, adjudicating festivals, and judging competitions. He has presented clinics at several Percussive Arts Society Days of Percussion, State Music education conferences, middle schools, high schools, and colleges throughout Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, and Texas. In November 2014, he presented at the Percussive Arts Society International Convention in Indiana. He has adjudicated at the UNC / Greeley Jazz Festival, The Kinser Jazz Festival, as well as many smaller Jazz festivals. He also regularly judges for the Rocky Mountain Percussion Association and the Intermountain Percussion Association.
Furthering music education and giving back is an important part of what Shilo does. He is active in the Percussive Arts Society and served as Colorado Chapter President for 10 years. He is also serving on the board of directors for the Rocky Mountain Percussion Association.
Shilo is a Yamaha Performing Artist and a proud endorser of Promark, Evans, and Sabian products.
