Mario Gonzi

Mario was born on May 5 1966 near Vienna, started to play the drums at the age of 5 and began his studies at the "Konservatorium der Stadt Wien" at the age of 13.

Since then he worked with artists like Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis, Benny Golson, Johnny Griffin, Vincent Herring, Charly Rouse, Sal Nistico, Bob Berg, Randy Brecker, Dusko Gojkovic, Benny Bailey, Clark Terry, Cedar Walton, Bob Brookmayer, Richie Beirach, Joe Haider, Kirk Lightsey, Jimmy Woode, Karl Ratzer, Take Six, Roberta Gambarini, Ann Hampton Callaway and many more.

In 1989 Mario Gonzi started working with the "Paquito D.Rivera Havanna-New York Ensemble" in New York City, New York area and throughout the US.

For 14 years - until Art Farmer passed away in 1998 - Mario Gonzi was member of the "European Art Farmer Quintet". 

He proves his leading qualities as a Big Band Drummer with the international "Vienna Art Orchestra" 

(member 1999-2008) and as a saught after guest for various european Radio- and Freelancing Big Bands.

He received the "Hans Koller Jazz-prize" as "Sideman of the year 2001".

Mario plays Agner Sticks and Bosphorus Cymbals and is sponsored by Drumhouse Austria.