Mark M Productions

Island/Steel Drum

Paul McDermand

Paul McDermand began his musical career as a free-lance percussionist in the Chicago area. At the age of nineteen, he assumed the percussion duties on a popular theatrical production playing in one of Chicago’s downtown theaters. The show was called “The Magic Man,” and its star was another teenager, David Copperfield.

In 1981, Paul moved to the Phoenix area, lending his artistry to film scores, commercial jingles, symphonic productions and stage shows of every description. The list of big-name entertainers with whom Paul has performed is vast: Natalie Cole, Tony Bennett, Johnny Cash, Liberace, the Temptations and the Moody Blues have all tapped his considerable talents.

In 1993, Mr. McDermand received an invitation from New York to join a revival tour of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Jesus Christ, Superstar,” featuring the stars of Norman Jewison’s 1973 motion picture. Paul accepted, anchoring the rhythm section during sold-out performances throughout the world’s finest theatrical venues. Upon his return to Scottsdale, Paul began to develop an assortment of instrumental arrangements built around the steel drums and marimba, resulting in numerous CD releases. These recordings are embraced the world over for their easy nature and exotic beauty; popular pianist Roger Williams once wrote to Paul, "If you don't stop making these beautiful recordings, you'll put me out of business!"

With his rising demand as a concert artist, Paul McDermand appears both as leader of his own group and as a guest soloist with the finest ensembles, often alongside guitar virtuoso Esteban.

Sample Audio

Sample Audio

Sample Audio

Sample Video