David Bedell, also known as David Small, is a professional drummer, instructor and recording artist. He was born in Springfield, Missouri and began playing the drums when he was only 3 years of age. At age 7, David realized his calling and knew exactly what he wanted to do with the rest of his life. The desire and drive to become a professional musician was coursing through his veins! Influenced by those closest to him, David found inspiration in his great uncle and jazz musician Dave Bedell and his uncle Larry Bedell. Both played integral roles in his growth as an accomplished drummer in addition to influences from such artists as the great Buddy Rich.
David Bedell began playing the Southen California club circuit early; at age 15 he was the youngest professional in the area. By the time he was recruited by Dick Dale at the age of 19, he was already a seasoned performer. Thoughout the course of his career, he has developed a signature style of solid time-keeping, always leaving room for the music itself to breathe, which has made him popular with other musicians on the bandstand. A strong player known for smooth technique and musicality, he adapts easily from genre to genre, conquering simple and complex passages with equal proficiency. Always seeking to improve his mastery of the craft, Dave has studied with a number of legendary performers including Roy Burns, Jim Chapin and Joe Morello. For the past 13 years, he has been a member of the California Music Teachers Association, encouraging students of all levels to realize their potential.
Dave Bedell's percussion skills have earned him involvement with an impressive list of projects ranging from an Arkansas-based, country-rock project called Gray Ghost to a casino gig titled Show Stoppers where Small showcased his distinct talent playing to the music of artists such as Michael Jackson, Shania Twain, The Temptations and Gloria Estefan. An extremely diverse musician, David is comfortable playing a multitude of styles including country honky-tonk, funk, jazz, blues, rock and everything in-between. A musician of many hats and musical styles, David Bedell is a true kaleidoscope of talent.
Traveling extensively, David Bedell has played venues around the world including dates in Brazil, Japan and Bahrain in addition to a countless number of U.S. cities. He credits his unique drumming style to his diverse experiences. "I just pull from all of the influences around me from Jazz to Funk to R&B," explains David "and I turn it into my own style."
Dave Bedell can be heard on various artist albums including F5's 'A Drug for All Seasons', Matt Reardon's follow-up album to 'Reardon', George Hughes' 'If It's Alright with You' and Avian's 'From the Depths of Time.' On the local scene, David plays with several popular cover bands including The Robert Street Band and his own R & B/Funk band, HOUSEQUAKE.
Years of experience with live performances, studio sessions and countless hours of practice has allowed David Bedell to pass on unique drum teaching skills to his students. Always honing in on his craft, David strives to be the best musician possible and never settles for average results in his students. His extensive teaching roster is filled with students of all ages. Mentoring fledgling students into expert drummers is David's greatest passion.
David Bedell's current project is a three-piece collaboration with vocalist/guitarist Jarrod Parker and lead guitarist Lars Slate. This union proudly calls themselves Plush Society, a melodic rock group with a lot of promise, fresh out of the recording studio with an impressive 5-song EP. Plush Society offers strong hooks, great vocals, and undeniable musicianship. No matter what style of genre you prefer, Plush Society has universal appeal with no age barrier. With Jarrod's soulful, edgy vocals, Lars' blistering guitar chops, and David's powerful yet steady drum pulse, they will leave you wanting more. Plush Society is best compared to a mixture of Dave Matthews, Match Box 20, Goo Goo Dolls, and Incubus. This band will soon get national attention.