Jim Donovan is a musician, teacher, trainer and motivator whose mission is to empower, inspire and connect people. In his work, Donovan records, performs, writes, and
offers workshops in the US and abroad focused on using rhythm, drumming
and the voice as vehicles for personal growth, healing, and the creation
of community.
He was a founding member of the 90's
band
Rusted Root who've sold over 3 million records to date. He was also
voted "Drum Circle Facilitator of the Year" by the
readers of Drum! Magazine. He has appeared on the David Letterman, Conan
O'Brien shows and his music with the band is featured major motion
pictures such as Ice Age, Twister, Mathilda as well as on network TV
shows American Idol and Party of Five. His touring work with Rusted
Root
provided ample opportunity to share the stage with rock legends such
as Carlos Santana, The Grateful Dead, Jimmy Page and Robert Plant,
Sting, and The Allman Brothers among others.
Donovan
holds a BA in Music Performance from the
University of Pittsburgh and is completing graduate work in Education
Leadership at Saint Francis University where he is also on faculty.
Donovan is involved in research at Saint Francis where he has
developed a training program that teaches Occupational Therapists,
medical professionals, parents and teachers how to use percussion
techniques as a complementary intervention for autistic and children with other disabilities. Donovan is an
author, dedicated husband and father of three.
