Ashley D'Andrea Drums and assorted percussion, other fiddle, vocals.

It's quite simple. I was placed squarely on my uncle's drum set at age three. That did me in. I began studying violin in 1979. Soon afterward I took up piano and learned the wonders of music composition and improvisation "because someone told me you have to know the rules before you can break them." (Apparently I didn't want to waste any time.)

Fast forward to 1989 when I was handed copies of "Steeleye Span: Original Masters" and "Fairport Convention: In Real Time." That really did me in! This event marked my full-fledged introduction to electric folk music and I've been a fan ever since. At the same time, I've always kept one foot squarely planted in the jazz, rock and classical idioms (well, one foot and two hands).

Fast-fast forward to 1997 when I found myself part of a most unique ensemble known as Broadside Electric. The music they create is exciting, diverse and always fun to play. I feel rather privileged to be among their new musical alchemists and I look forward to whatever lies ahead. Now if I can just get this Bodhran thing down ... -- Ashley