Max Terechenok is a percussionist finishing his Jazz Studies Performance degree for the drum set at the University of Central Florida.

“My love for drumming started when I was a little kid tapping on the dinner table or the seat-back of my parent’s car. My parents took me to my first drum lesson when I was about 10 years old and our close friend was able to get me my first drum set through my church. I’ve been blessed with family and friends who support me and who have helped me in countless ways to keep pursuing my dream.”

Studying under world-class instructors such as Marty Morell, Clarence Penn, Jason Marsalis, Dr. Thad Anderson, and Kirk Gay, his love for music has led him to earn several scholarship opportunities with both UCF and the Central Florida Jazz Society and numerous performance opportunities in the state of Florida. Under the direction of outstanding saxophonist Jeffrey Rupert in the Flying Horse Big Band, he has played with several prominent jazz musicians such as Joel Frahm, Jerry Bergonzi, and Wycliffe Gordon.

“In high school, my love for music and playing both drum set and percussion grew immensely. My band directors influenced me to always bring my best to performances which is something that has stuck with me. At my church, Horizon West, I’ve been given opportunities to play and music direct. I’m able to use the gifts God has given me to not only serve the music, but serve my church community. I’m so grateful to God for what He’s done in my life through music and I want to share that with others.”