From an early age, music has always been a big part of his life. Surrounded by music from a young age, and especially inspired by his grandmother, Owen Barry '25 started drumming with chopsticks in restaurants to getting his own drum set. He’s been playing for a little over 10 years, having held drumsticks since the age of three. When he got his first drum set at five, Barry decided to start taking his musical passion more seriously. Owen currently plays in Studio Band, and is looking ahead to taking the next step into his musical career.

Who or what inspired you to start playing the drums?

I’d say my grandma, definitely, was a huge inspiration because she was the musician in my family. She was a professional singer and started playing music for me when I was little. She was also the one to get me my first piano and drum set and became the one I looked to as I learned how to play.

What drew you to the drums?

Although I play a little piano, I mostly stick to the drums as it’s what I enjoy most. I used to get chopsticks when I went to restaurants and would play them in the parks of New York City, where I grew up, before transitioning to drumsticks. I just enjoy the different sounds and beats I can make.

What has been the most challenging song you’ve had to play and how did you overcome it?

Right now I’m working on this Charles Mingus song — he was a famous bass player — and what makes it so difficult is the need to lock in with all the other musicians of my section. Since I play the drums I have to focus on what the bass player is doing, which has been hard because there are so many fluctuations in the piece’s tempo, but it’s sounding pretty good.

What’s it like being a drummer in Studio Band?

I’ve really enjoyed it. It was my goal since middle school and I was able to get in as a freshman. I enjoy the environment which has allowed me to meet new people and make long-lasting relationships that have stuck around even as people have headed to college. I think being able to make music with people is pretty cool.

What’s your favorite thing about the band program at PHS? Can you share your favorite memory?

PHS is obviously one of the best band programs in the country and the opportunities we get are amazing. I’d say being able to record an album and tour in London was definitely one of my favorite memories. Last year we won states in the National Jazz Festival, and sharing that with all the seniors that graduated was also really special.

Where do you see yourself going with music after high school?

I’ve gotten into a couple music schools and am debating which to choose. After that, I kinda just want to perform and maybe teach, but really focus on trying to tour and get into it professionally. That’s the dream.

Do you have any tips for aspiring drummers?

I’d say listen as much as you can and play as much as you can. The advice I always got was take any gig or any opportunity to play that you can. It doesn’t really matter whether it pays or not. You can learn a lot from listening to other people and trying to mimic what they are doing.