Don Lordo

Don Lordo is a freelance percussionist and small business-owner in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Since 1999, Don has operated DGL Percussion, a percussion repair and fabrication business. In addition to repairing standard percussion equipment - drums, timpani, keyboard percussion, DGL Percussion specializes in fabricating “uncommon, specialty instruments,” such as trines, wind machines, and lujons.

As a performer, Don has played with numerous groups throughout middle and East Tennessee including serving as the Principal Percussionist for both the Oak Ridge Symphony and the Scruffy City Orchestra. Additionally, he is the Timpanist for both the Southern Stars Brass Band and at the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. As a freelance musician, he has worked as the drummer/percussionist for the Swingtime Big Band, the 201/Big Bang Big Band, as well as countless performances with area churches, school musical productions, and local bands.

In his work as an educator, Don has worked with various school programs throughout Middle and East Tennessee in capacities ranging from battery arranger to Assistant Director. Currently, he is Director of Percussion Studies at Sacred Heart’s Cathedral School of Music teaching private lessons to students of all ages. Since 2023, he also serves as the front ensemble tech and sound designer for the Maryville Red Rebel Band in Maryville, Tennessee.