Island Hoppin’ Steel Drum Band

Specialties

Island Hoppin’s expansive musical repertoire covers selections fitting any mood or occasion – including holidays (such as a Caribbean style Christmas). Since the band’s inception in 1993, Island Hoppin’ has taken Southern California by storm, playing at countless shows, concerts, parties, theme parks, weddings, corporate events, clubs, openings, receptions and festivals. Our rates are very affordable. Due to the band’s unique ensemble, Island Hoppin’ can configure a show to multiple sizes – each with the client’s budget in mind, and we travel throughout Los Angeles, Orange County and San Diego. Island Hoppin’ is electrifying events everywhere and is the perfect choice for your next celebration!

Contact Island Hoppin’ today to bring the beautiful sounds of the Caribbean to your next gathering.

History

Established in 1994.

Island Hoppin’ is a five-​piece steel drum band composed of three steel drummers, a bass guitarist and a drum set player. The band’s unique repertoire consists of rhythmic reggae, hot soca, enchanting calypso, as well as favorite holiday and pop tunes. Island Hoppin’ tailors each musical experience to meet every client’s specific needs – from song selection to band customization.

We have performed over a 1000 gigs in Southern California and we look forward to being a part of your event!

Meet the Business Owner

Dave G.

Business Owner

Dave Gerhart holds a D.M.A. from the University of Southern California in Percussion Performance with a secondary emphasis in Music Education, Ethnomusicology, and Music Industry & Technology. Dr. Gerhart received a M.M. in Percussion Performance and Instrumental Conducting and a B.M. in Music Education from California State University, Long Beach. He has been featured on CDs with the Robin Cox Ensemble and most recently with Steven Hartke on Sonic Scenery for the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. As a freelance musician, Dave has performed under Zubin Mehta, Mehli Mehta, and has performed with Yo-​Yo Ma, Bobby McFerrin, Michael Kamen, Yefim Bronfman, Ray Holman, and Robert Greenidge. His principle teachers include Dr. Michael Carney, Erik Forrester, Brad Dutz, and Raynor Carroll, principal percussionist of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Dave is currently the director of the CSULB University Percussion Ensemble and the CSULB Steel Drum Orchestra.