Dean started with A & A Music at its Hassell Rd. location in 1990, but we have known him since working with him back at the Woodfield Mall Wurlitzer store in the late 1970’s. He is an incredible performing percussionist, having played with many famous pop legends like; Billy Daniels, Rosemary Clooney, Billy Eckstein, Tonight Show regular Pete Barbutti, comedians Henny Youngman and Pudgy. He was the staff drummer at the famous Pump Room in Chicago for over 10 years. He has performed at society functions that included Chicago Mayor Byrne, Illinois Governor Jim Thompson, Harry Carey, Jack Brickhouse, and many other local celebrities. Dean has worked with several Junior High Schools in the area and had students take 1st Place performing in the 1st annual Percussive Arts Society Convention, with several schools also winning percussion ensemble compositions at the subsequent competitions. He also worked with Hersey High School percussion students for over 30 years.

Dean holds a B.A. from Knox College and is a knowledgeable, patient teacher that loves working with students who want to learn more than just the usual rock drum riffs and is truly a percussionist at heart. Students love his laid back style. He is married and has 3 grown daughters currently in college.