John Peifer began his dedication to music at a very early age. Being the son of the well-known Franklin & Marshall College band director John H. Peifer Jr., young John was afforded the opportunity to hear and meet world renowned musicians such as Rafel Mendex, Don Jacoby and many others. By the age of twelve, John perused drum studies. Through serious practice he acquired stamina and discipline, which are the vital foundations necessary to succeed as a professional musician. Once into his adolescence he began performing with local bands.

Progressively, John became more focused on expanding his creative potential and headed for Philadelphia and New York City to study with teachers Paul Patterson, Armand Santarelli, Jim Blackley and Sonny Igoe. During this period, he also attended the Philadelphia Music Academy. The experience helped him gain recognition and respect from the musicians he worked with in these two cities. His diligence in learning all styles of playing drums, including jazz, made him a proficient player and very much in demand.

Between 1964 and 1979 John toured the continental United States and Canada with numerous show groups and bands. Within the 16 years of his road experience he backed famous entertainers such as Kay Stevens, Buddy Greco, and Tony Orlando in Las Vegas, Atlantic City and Hawaii. John’s travels were not limited to show rooms and lounges; he also worked as a studio musician at Criteria Studios in Miami, Bee Jay Studios and South Eastern Studios in Orlando, Florida.

Finally in 1979 he returned to settle down in Lancaster, PA where he’s been working with a very popular band, Third Stream, for the past twenty five years. All four musicians involved have the versatility and education that make this the perfect group for John to utilize his years of experience. They have recorded numerous albums and CDs since he joined the band and they opened concerts for B.B. King, Tower of Power, Herbie Hancock, and Spyro Gyra.

As a freelance musician during this time, John has performed with Steve Turre, Sal Nistico, Eric Kloss, Al Grey, John Blake and other top artists.

John has been a drum instructor at Drums Etc. for the past thirty two years. As a professional teacher he cares about the development of each student and stresses musical understanding. He strives to tap the creative potential of his students and guides them patiently according to their individual needs. John brings professional quality along with years of dedication to all his work.