David Hillendahl

Musical Artist David Hillendahl's career has spanned nearly three decades, as performer, teacher, and author.  Beginning as a private music instructor while still in high school, Mr. Hillendahl later attended Houston's University of St. Thomas, where he was the music department's first Percussion major, earning a bachelor's degree in Music Performance.  Just after graduation, Mr. Hillendahl joined the  company of the Broadway musical "Godspell" which toured for nine months in venues across the United States.  For the next six seasons, he played for Broadway productions of "Pippen," "Jesus Christ Superstar," "Showboat," "Mame," and "The Music Man" on tour and New York.  Mr. Hillendahl also created original percussion scores for the "Prince Street Players" repertory troupe whose theatrical productions for children were featured nationally on PBS.

After nearly eight years of continual touring, Mr. Hillendahl relocated to Hollywood California where he befriended legendary drummer Buddy Rich, and served as guest instructor at California Lutheran University.   Also in Los Angeles, Mr. Hillendahl performed with pianist Roger Williams, singer Maureen McGovern, and the Coasters --eventually playing at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas.

Following his performing career, Mr. Hillendahl began using drumming as therapy in schools, hospitals, and rehabilitation facilities across the United States.  A chance encounter with the late psychiatrist and researcher Elisabeth Kubler-Ross led to extensive Sound Healing work which he successfully implemented in hospice programs around the country.  With the formation of the non-profit Hill-Sky Foundation, his "Drums Through the Ages" program has been presented to individuals across Texas, California, New Mexico, and Arizona.  Mr. Hillendahl received his MFA and certification as a Music Therapist and Sound Healer in 2000.