My Story

Evan Parandes is a seasoned drummer and percussionist whose musical journey began in the school orchestra and marching band. By age 14, he was performing at Greek restaurants, nightclubs, and festivals in the San Francisco Bay Area alongside his father, bouzouki artist Peter Parandes. In the early 1990s, Evan toured North America as the drummer for the Billboard-charting synth-pop group Cause and Effect, supporting their top 10 dance singles.

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Throughout his career, Evan has collaborated with a diverse array of artists, including legendary guitarist Ralph E. Hammer (known for his work with Stevie Wonder, Joe Cocker, Etta James, and The O’Jays), Jessica Malone, Billy Raney (of Frank Hannon), Julian Roy, Ukulenny, Craig Chee & Sarah Maisel, Threshing Floor, Neo Kyma, Orpheus Sounds, Khashmir, and Giannis Stamatiou.

Evan has honed his craft under the guidance of esteemed percussionists such as Jose Montaña (known for his work with Richard Bona and Alain Perez), Edgardo Cambon (of Candela and Chucho Valdez), Merl Corbett, Tony Dey (who has performed with Linda Ronstadt and Van Morrison), Michael Lawson, and Steve Stizzo (of Mumbo Gumbo).

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As an educator, Evan teaches a wide range of musical styles, including Pop, Rock, R&B, Funk, Soul, Blues, Reggae, Folk, Latin, Jazz, Gospel, Orchestral, and Marching Band. His instruction covers essential topics such as drum rudiments, playing with a click track/metronome, reading and writing drum notation, groove, improvisation, and Moeller technique.

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Currently based in Sacramento, California, Evan continues to inspire and educate the next generation of drummers, sharing his extensive knowledge and passion for music.