Inspired by the alternative/grunge and heavy metal bands of the early 1990's , Luke began his musical journey on the drums at the age of twelve in Roswell, Georgia. Soon after purchasing his first drum set he began taking private lessons with Tim Nash, who helped him build a solid drumming foundation as well as opened his mind to other musical genres like jazz, fusion and Latin styles of music. To further deepen his musical knowledge, Luke began studying under esteemed percussionist Jerry Fields. Jerry taught Luke music theory and prepared him for Berklee College of Music by immersing him in jazz and afro-cuban music. While at Berklee Luke primarily studied with Ian Froman, who taught him modern jazz drumming but he also deepened his world music skills with Jamie Haddad.
After graduating from Berklee in 2002 Luke moved back to Atlanta,Georgia where he began teaching and performing in variety of musical situations including jazz, funk, blues and rock styles with some of Atlanta's finest musicians. Further deepening his drumming skills Luke studied with Atlanta legends Jeff Sipe and Kinah Boto. Luke was introduced to the jam band scene when he joined Blueground Undergrass and played many notable festivals including Wakarusa in 2005.
By 2007 Luke was ready to start a new adventure and was inspired to move to Colorado where he immediately began performing and teaching. He quickly was immersed in the music scene and was regularly playing with the Adam Bodine trio, The Drew Emmittt Band and Whitewater Ramble and many other talented musicians. Luke currently lives in Golden where he performs with his own band and teaches private lessons.
