Dโ€™Andre Gosey has been a drummer since he was banging on pots and pans as a toddler. Now in his mid-twenties, he teaches music (including the drumline) at Hines Caldwell Elementary School in Southwest Houston.

โ€œI really enjoy doing that,โ€ he says. โ€œItโ€™s a chance to give back, and impart some knowledge and wisdom.โ€

Last week, Gosey competed in the national semifinals of Guitar Centerโ€™s 27th annual Drum-Off, held this year at the music-gear storeโ€™s Westheimer and Fondren location. Youโ€™ll have to watch the video to find out how he did, but suffice to say he earns his excellent nickname โ€œQuicksticks” several times over.

Chris Gray is the former Music Editor for the Houston Press.