Monty (real name Armando) first started to play drums at the age of 14. He stopped after a year, but then the beat bug bit him again and he resumed his studies in all things percussive at 19.
Attending the Adelaide College of Performing Arts where he first met Sean Timms and Peter Reynolds, he completed an Associate Diploma in Performing Arts Jazz. Yes, Monty is one of those rare breed of drummers who does know how to read music fluently!
Over the years Monty has played nearly every style of music with a huge array of artists both nationally and internationally. These include Glen Shorrock and Beeb Birtles of Little River Band fame, White Heart, a US Christian rock group, Lisa Edwards, Vanetta Fields, jamming with the likes of Dizzy Gillespie (the trumpeter, not the cricketer!), Tommy Emmanuel, Kenny Marks and Dion Demucci, of 'The Wanderer' fame.
He has also recorded at the famous Abbey Road Studios and was a founding member of popular Australian act EVE.
He is currently the founder and drummer/manager for Australia's premiere Beatles tribute show The Fab Four, who among other things have performed at the Sydney Opera House and the Beatles Liverpool conventions in 2001 and 2002.
When he's not donning a wig and fake moustache in The Fab Four or rocking away in Unitopia, Monty likes to relax by doing a spot of fishing or spending quality time with his wife of over 20 years, Anita and their 3 children.
An innovative and thoughtful drummer, Monty doesn't get bogged down by listening to the same bands all the time. His insatiable thirst for something new and exciting helps keep him on the cutting edge of an ever changing music industry.
Monty has said often that he's happy in his own skin and wouldn't wish to be anyone else, although he says that he could be a little wealthier so that he could be of more help to others.
His life ambition is to continue to play great music and eventually record his own album with many differing styles and influences together with all the great musicians he has worked with. The work would be highly experimental with no boundaries or restrictions and have a totally unique sound.
As the old saying goes, 'A man who lives by the sword, dies by the sword'. Music is Monty's sword.
Monty Ruggiero
Drums/Percussion
Equipment:
Sonor and Ludwig drum kits. Ufip cymbals.