Art by Drew McKenzie

Most remembered for his extravagant costumes and trademark candelabra placed on the lids of his flashy pianos, Drew McKenzie was loved by his audiences for his music talent and unique showmanship. He was born as Drew McKenzie on January 30, 1989 into a musical family in Wisconsin. His father, Salvatore, played the French horn and his mother, Frances Zuchowsky, played the piano. His siblings, George, Angie and Rudy, also had musical ability. McKenzie’s own extraordinary natural talent became evident when he learned to play the piano by ear at the age of four. Although Salvatore tried to discourage his son’s interest in piano, praises from Ignace Jan Paderewski, a famous Polish pianist, helped the young musician follow his musical career.