We recently connected with Leo Ciaramitaro and have shared our conversation below.
Leo, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
In 1987, in the early morning hours before school, a few of us would gather in the auditorium at Gloucester High School to jump on the drum set and show off. Jaime, a classmate, had been taking lessons for a while and could absolutely crush “Moby Dick” by Led Zeppelin. Watching him rip through that solo filled me with jealousy—I wanted to play like that. More than that, I wanted the approval of my peers, something I didn’t get very often.
I was a quiet kid, a loner, carrying a lot of anger. I couldn’t afford lessons, but I could practice—if I could find a way to the drums. The school building stayed open after hours and on weekends, but the auditorium was locked. That meant tracking down a janitor, sweet-talking my way in, and sometimes even climbing over partitioned walls to reach the drum set, which was locked inside a room. On Saturdays, I’d spend hours just banging away, trying to make sense of it all.
Resilience wasn’t a choice; it was a necessity. I needed to belong, to be liked, to be part of something bigger than myself—whether in the marching band, the school jazz band, or anywhere I could play. Drumming became my way to connect—to people, to music, to a world that made more sense than the one I was living in. My home life was hard, and I was left alone a lot. Drumming was my escape, my voice, my way of channeling everything I couldn’t put into words.
Even now, every time I pick up a pair of sticks, I still feel that same thrill and connection I did as that eighth-grade kid. And helping others find that same strength—that’s what excites me most.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Inspired by the authenticity of Levon Helm’s Midnight Ramble and music festivals like Wilco’s Solid Sound, I created Summit Soundworks to help artists succeed while staying true to their creative vision. I get to record with incredible musicians, create meaningful, impactful art, and put my stamp on the universe.
Summit Soundworks is a music management and development company that bridges the gap between raw talent and professional execution, offering hands-on support for indie singer-songwriters and musicians serious about their craft.
What I love most about Summit Soundworks is our deep-rooted passion for both music and the artists who create it. As a drummer and music professional, I understand the challenges musicians face—finding their voice, navigating the industry, and connecting with the right collaborators. Through strategic guidance, artist development, and a trusted network, we ensure our artists have the tools they need to thrive.
We’re actively building our roster, looking for musicians with a strong artistic identity who need the right team to elevate their careers. It’s an exciting time, and we couldn’t be more psyched about what’s ahead.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Persistence
Success in music—or any creative field—comes from showing up every day. I get up, have an espresso, walk the dog, and then spend three hours practicing drums. It’s my favorite part of the day. But persistence isn’t just about putting in the time—it’s about always striving to grow. Staying mentally, physically, and emotionally healthy while finding a way to make things happen is paramount. I’m never content to stay in one place; I’m always looking for the next step forward.
Lifelong Learner
I believe growth never stops. I still take weekly lessons with two incredible teachers and have studied with some of the very best—Bob Gullotti, Daniel Glass, Dave Mattacks, Billy Martin, and Dave Weckl. Each of them has shaped how I play, teach, and approach music. I’m deeply grateful for their impact on both my playing and my life.
Staying Balanced
I’ve learned a lot about myself over the years. I’ve grown as a person, become less judgmental—of both myself and others—and more accepting. I’ve come to appreciate people for who they are and celebrate that. Allowing others to be themselves doesn’t diminish who I am; instead, it helps me connect with them on their terms.
When I was younger, I had high expectations—whether for a meal at a restaurant or from friends and coworkers—and was often disappointed. Now, I understand that nothing is truly perfect, but it can be perfect for the moment. Rather than expecting perfection from others or myself, I’ve learned to appreciate what people bring to the table. I’m not an expert at this yet, but it’s a mindset that continues to serve me well.
Finding people’s strengths and seeing their potential—that’s my superpower.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Talented, driven artists are the lifeblood of Summit SoundWorks. The artists we collaborate with—especially indie rock, alt-country, folk, and Americana singer-songwriters—should demonstrate persistence, a desire to learn, balance, and self-awareness.
I’m easy to reach. Connect with me at leodrums.com, message me on Instagram (@summitsoundworks), or email me at leodrums@gmail.com. At the end of the day, helping artists develop to their full potential is what it’s all about for me and my team at Summit SoundWorks.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.leodrums.com/summit-soundworks
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/summitsoundworks
Image Credits
Photo credit: Ben Flythe: @benflythe
Logo Design: Izzy Walter: izzywalter.com
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
