Spring 2019 Update

Hi Everyone,

Summer is around the corner, which means the school year is coming to a close. Since the last update there have been numerous concerts, performances, clinics and even a few drum restorations!

As I continue my career as an educator, I’m beginning to facilitate clinics/workshops on my curriculum how to integrate drum set studies into the general music classroom. I’ve had the privilege to work with the music teachers of the School District of Philadelphia during a Professional Development day (January 11th), along with co-facilitating a Tune-Up Tuesday workshop with my co-worker from Franklin Learning Center Michelle Frank. I was even asked to present a workshop to the students of the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association District 11 Orchestra – where I discussed my career as a full time musician and educator.

Nick Costa's clinic setup for his workshop on how to integrate drum set studies into the general music classroom. Ludwig Drums, Remo Heads, Vic Firth Sticks, Zildjian Cymbals.
Nick Costas clinic setup for his workshop on how to integrate drum set studies into the general music classroom Ludwig Drums Remo Heads Vic Firth Sticks Zildjian Cymbals

As for performances, I’m still playing with St. Brendan – who has recently released a few singles. You can listen to them on the MUSIC page of the site! I’ve also played several musicals including Legally Blonde and Chicago!

Shot of Nick before opening curtain for Legally Blonde the Musical.  Ludwig Drums, Remo Heads, Vic Firth Sticks, Zildjian Cymbals
A photo before opening curtain for Legally Blonde the Musical

Finally – I recently added some of the drum restorations I’ve completed, including some drums for the School District of Philadelphia. It’s great to get some vintage drums back into the classroom to learn on, including an old Ludwig marching snare that was labeled “damaged beyond repair.” You can check out the photos of that drum, along with some restoration videos of my 67 Ludwig Downbeat Kit in the DRUM RESTORATIONS photo album of the site!

Vintage Ludwig 15" Marching Snare restored by Nick Costa for Franklin Learning Center (Philadelphia, PA)
The vintage 15 marching snare before restoration
Vintage Ludwig 15" Marching Snare restored by Nick Costa for Franklin Learning Center (Philadelphia, PA)
The drum after restoration


Although a lot has happened, I’m excited to continue on this path as an educator and musician. Make sure to stay up to date with everything by checking the DATES page, as well as following me on instagram.

Until Next time,

-Nick