ONG DRUM STUDIO
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ONG DRUM STUDIO 🥁
William Ong - Drummer , Educator, Working Musician & Composer
Rob Minor - Bassist , Working Musician & Composer
William Ong is a seasoned drummer, music educator, working musician, and composer who runs the highly respected "Ong Drum Studio." With over three decades of experience in the music industry, William comes from a family with a rich history in drums. His father, Joseph Ong, has been a professional musician for 38 years and previously taught jazz percussion at The Ohio State University from 1983 to 2006. His grandfather, L.B. Ong, was a professional tap dancer and drummer during the "Big Band Era," making music a deeply rooted tradition in the Ong family.
William's passion for music ignited at a young age. He began studying with his father at just five years old, absorbing lessons passed down from Charles "Charley" Wilcoxon, a legendary figure in drum pedagogy. As his skills progressed, William studied with Phil Shipley, the Principal Percussionist with the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, among other notable mentors. His early education continued at Fort Hayes Arts Academy, where he received comprehensive training in music history, theory, business, and recording under the guidance of Jim Maneri and Jeff McCargish.
William's education extended beyond traditional schooling. He participated in lessons and sat in on his father's combo sessions at OSU after school, which honed his abilities in jazz performance, comping, and trading 4s at a collegiate level while still in high school. This unique exposure provided William with a solid foundation in various musical styles and performance techniques, setting the stage for his future endeavors.
After graduating, William dedicated three years to teaching and leading the Beechcroft Drumline before transitioning to private teaching and gigging. His pursuit of excellence led him to take advanced drum lessons with Steve Dodge from Columbus Pro Percussion, focusing on double pedal techniques. This continuous learning mindset has been a hallmark of William's career, reflecting his commitment to self-improvement and mastery of his craft.
Throughout his career, William has toured extensively across the United States and Canada with the math rock band "SRVVLST" and has performed with numerous renowned musicians and bands. His impressive roster of collaborators includes Medeski Martin Wood, Into It Over It, The World is a Beautiful Place and I Am No Longer Afraid to Die, Anthrax, Circle Takes the Square, Man Forever, Tera Melos, Joan of Arc, The Melvins, Modern Baseball, Tiny Moving Parts, Xerxes, Empire! Empire! (I Was a Lonely Estate), Sport, Dads!, Tim Kinsella, Mike Kinsella, Giraffes? Giraffes!, Maps and Atlases, and Hella. These diverse experiences have solidified William's reputation as a versatile and dynamic drummer, capable of adapting to various musical genres and settings.
In his adult life, William has further refined his skills through private and master classes with esteemed drummers such as Steve Gadd, Thomas Pridgen, Sean Kinney, Akira Jimbo, and Zack Danzinger. These experiences have enriched his playing and teaching techniques, allowing him to bring a wealth of knowledge to his students at Ong Drum Studio. William strongly advocates for continuous self-improvement, emphasizing the importance of staying open to learning, listening to various styles of music, performing frequently, and maintaining a humble attitude towards one's craft.
William's dedication to music extends beyond performance and education. As a composer, he brings creativity and innovation to his work, contributing to the evolution of contemporary drumming. His compositions reflect his diverse influences and deep understanding of rhythm and dynamics, making him a respected figure in the music community.
At Ong Drum Studio, William imparts his extensive knowledge and passion for drumming to aspiring musicians. His teaching philosophy emphasizes technique, musicality, and the joy of playing, inspiring students to pursue their musical goals with confidence and enthusiasm. Through his mentorship, William has helped shape the next generation of drummers, ensuring that the rich legacy of the Ong family continues to thrive in the world of music.
With over two decades of experience, Rob Minor stands as a seasoned bassist renowned for his expertise across Funk, Metal, and Rock genres. His mastery of techniques including slapping, picking, fingerstyle, and harmonic resonance is inspired by esteemed bass icons such as Aaron "P-Nut" Wills, Les Claypool, Victor Wooten, Jaco Pastorius, and Marcus Miller. Rob's playing is characterized by a blend of technical proficiency and creative expression, making him a versatile and sought-after musician in the industry.
Rob's musical journey commenced at the age of six with formal piano training, followed by drum lessons at eight and guitar instruction at ten. At eleven, he discovered his true calling with the bass guitar, embarking on a path that led him to further refine his craft at Fort Hayes Alternative High School, where he immersed himself in the performing arts. This diverse musical foundation has given Rob a unique perspective and a deep understanding of rhythm and melody, which he brings to every performance.
Throughout his illustrious career, Rob has graced the stage with acclaimed bands such as Big Nasty, Dark War, Swarm, Infidel, Arowana, and The Suffering Puppets. His performances have illuminated prestigious venues including Alrosa Villa, The Basement, Newport Music Hall, King of Clubs, Melody Inn, and Arlene's Grocery. Whether playing intimate club gigs or headlining larger venues, Rob's dynamic stage presence and technical prowess captivate audiences and elevate the live music experience.
Beyond his commanding stage presence, Rob is driven by a fervent desire to mentor and educate aspiring musicians. As a devoted educator, he places emphasis on fostering a strong foundation in bass playing, prioritizing techniques such as basic fingerstyle, fretboard navigation, and muscle memory development. Through his teaching methods, Rob instills in his students the importance of timing, repetition, and dynamics, empowering them to achieve excellence in their musical pursuits. He has developed a reputation for his patient and inspiring teaching style, helping students of all levels to unlock their full potential.
Rob's unwavering commitment to innovation, collaboration, and musical excellence continues to shape his journey in the music industry. He is constantly exploring new sounds and techniques, pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved with the bass guitar. His collaborative projects span various genres and styles, reflecting his versatility and passion for music. This dedication not only enhances his own artistry but also contributes to the evolution of contemporary bass playing.
In addition to his performance and teaching careers, Rob has been involved in numerous recording projects, both as a session musician and as a member of bands. His contributions can be heard on several albums and singles, showcasing his ability to adapt to different musical contexts and bring a unique voice to each project. Rob's meticulous approach to recording ensures that each track benefits from his technical skill and creative input.
Rob Minor's legacy in the music world is marked by his exceptional talent, dedication to his craft, and his influence on the next generation of musicians. His journey, characterized by a blend of traditional training and innovative exploration, serves as an inspiration to aspiring bassists and music enthusiasts around the world. As he continues to perform, teach, and create, Rob remains a pivotal figure in the bass community, leaving an indelible mark on audiences and aspiring musicians alike.