Find Music Lessons

Meet Chidi – Accomplished Drummer, Composer, and Educator

Chidi is a drummer, composer, and educator based in New York City, with a passion for helping students grow as confident and versatile musicians. He currently teaches at Five Towns College and Long Island University, where he offers private lessons, leads student ensembles, and teaches courses in music business and performance.

Originally from Nigeria, Chidi holds a Master’s degree in Jazz Studies from New York University, where he studied with acclaimed drummer Ari Hoenig, and a Bachelor’s degree in Commercial Music from Idaho State University. As a performer, he is an active presence in New York’s jazz and creative music scenes, with appearances at venues including Chris’ Jazz Café, Nublu, and more. He performs regularly with his own trio and as a member of the Digba Ogunbiyi Quartet.

Chidi’s experience spans jazz, Afrobeat, and experimental music, and he has recorded on numerous projects across these genres. He is proudly endorsed by Canopus Drums, Bosphorus Cymbals, and Salyers Percussion Drumsticks.

As a teacher, Chidi emphasizes building a strong rhythmic foundation, developing stylistic versatility, and cultivating musical sensitivity. His goal is to prepare students to succeed in any musical setting—whether on stage, in the studio, or beyond.