Manchester Orchestra Drummer Tim Very Dies at 42

The band remembers their beloved bandmate as 'the most beloved human being any of us were lucky enough to know'.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Tim Very, the drummer for the indie rock band Manchester Orchestra, has died at the age of 42. The band announced his sudden passing, calling him 'the most beloved human being any of us were lucky enough to know in this life' and remembering his 'undeniable light' and 'infectious' humor and energy.

Why it matters

Very was a long-time member of the popular indie rock band Manchester Orchestra, playing a critical role in the release of some of their most successful singles. His death is a significant loss for the band and their devoted fanbase.

The details

Very joined Manchester Orchestra in 2011, replacing previous drummer Jeremiah Edmond. He went on to play drums on four of the band's albums, as well as their 2023 EP. The band praised his exceptional musicianship and great chemistry with bassist Andy Prince, saying they 'were both really able to keep up and push and help improve the ideas that were there.' Before joining Manchester Orchestra, Very played with the San Diego-based rock band Walking Ashland.

  • Tim Very died on February 16, 2026 at the age of 42.
  • Very joined Manchester Orchestra in 2011.

The players

Tim Very

The drummer for the indie rock band Manchester Orchestra who died suddenly at the age of 42.

Manchester Orchestra

An American indie rock band that Tim Very was a long-time member of, playing drums on four of their albums and their 2023 EP.

Andy Hull

The lead vocalist, rhythm guitarist, and pianist for Manchester Orchestra, who paid tribute to Tim Very as a beloved bandmate.

Robert McDowell

The guitarist and keyboardist for Manchester Orchestra, who also paid tribute to Tim Very.

Andy Prince

The bassist for Manchester Orchestra, who the band said had great chemistry with Tim Very.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The entire Manchester Orchestra family has been devastated by the sudden passing of our brother, Timothy Very.”

— Manchester Orchestra, Band (Instagram)

“Tim was instantly likable and interacted with everyone he met with kindness and warmth. His laugh was infectious and he immediately made people feel invited and encouraged.”

— Manchester Orchestra, Band (Instagram)

“His humor and energy were the very foundation that held together the entire MO universe. Strangers quickly became friends and friends became family.”

— Manchester Orchestra, Band (Instagram)

“Tim's undeniable light was only matched by his dedication and love for the craft that he was clearly put on earth to do. No words can ever do him justice.”

— Manchester Orchestra, Band (Instagram)

“Only thing that Tim loved more than creating music was being with his family. You'd be pressed to find a more joyful dad.”

— Manchester Orchestra, Band (Instagram)

The takeaway

The sudden passing of Tim Very, the beloved drummer of Manchester Orchestra, is a devastating loss for the band and their fans. Very's infectious energy, humor, and dedication to his craft were integral to the band's success, and his memory will live on through the music he helped create.