Gabriel Giannelli on the Drums
Gabe Giannelli has been a full-time professional musician since 2001. He started his career with a two year stint as a show band drummer for Royal Caribbean Cruises on the flagship "Voyager of the Seas,” and then hand selected to be part of the takeout crew for the new "Brilliance of the Seas." In 2003, after getting married, Gabe transitioned to become a Navy Musician.
During his 20-year tenure in the U.S. Navy, Gabe's music reached over 47 million people across 19 countries through more than 1600 performances. He covered a wide range, from energetic Top 40 hits for crowds of 10,000, to creating a sophisticated atmosphere for cocktail hours attended by foreign dignitaries. When his schedule allowed, Gabe was a first call drummer for Wedding/Event Bands, Jazz groups, and Country bands throughout San Diego, Hawaii, Virginia, and New England. He also does session work; most recently a new album by Anton du Preez entitled Songs of Freedom, recorded with the Budapest Scoring Orchestra.
Gabe's musical journey was built on a foundation of education, including Berklee College of Music '01, Virginia Commonwealth University Jazz Department, and the Governor’s School for the Arts in Norfolk, VA. During the late ’90's, Gabe was a regular on the Hampton Roads theater scene, highlighted by two runs of “Always Patsy Cline” and the world premier of Stephen Swartz’s “SnapShots.”
Today, Gabe and his wife Sharon call St. Augustine, FL their home, celebrating over 20 years of marriage. They’re excited to get into the Northeast Florida scene and see where it goes!
“Such a pleasure having you on with us. It was like you’d been in the band for years”
“What I like about Gabe, aside from his great musicianship, is his professionalism.”
“Crushed it dude! You’re such a pro.
Anton: leaves vague email and minimal scratch track.
Gabe: sends great drum track.
Anton: leaves random voice message for notes.
Gabe: sends second track of perfection.”
Photo credit - Bo Wrinston