10-Year-Old Morris County Drummer Competes in NJ's Top Talent Show

Antonio Brucchieri, a student at the School of Rock in Chatham, will be competing against finalists up to 25 years old in Jersey Talent.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 5:42pm

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An abstract illustration featuring stark, jagged geometric shapes in black, white, and red, conceptually representing a young drummer performing on stage.A young drummer's passion for classic rock shines through in this minimalist, high-contrast illustration.New Brunswick Today

Antonio Brucchieri, a 10-year-old drummer from Morris County, New Jersey, has been selected as a finalist in Jersey Talent, a statewide talent competition featuring performers up to 25 years old. Antonio, who has been drumming since he was 6 and is inspired by classic rock bands like Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath, will take the stage on May 16 at the State Theatre in New Brunswick to showcase his musical talents and improvisational skills.

Why it matters

The inclusion of a 10-year-old drummer in a statewide talent competition against much older performers highlights the exceptional skills and dedication of young musicians in New Jersey. Antonio's participation also shines a spotlight on the importance of music education programs like the School of Rock, which have helped nurture his talent and passion for drumming.

The details

Antonio Brucchieri, a student at the School of Rock in Chatham, New Jersey, is one of 10 finalists competing in Jersey Talent, a statewide talent show that features performers ranging in age from 8 to 25 years old. Antonio, who has been drumming since he was 6 years old, was inspired to play the drums after being introduced to classic rock bands like Led Zeppelin, Rush, and Black Sabbath by his father. He cites Led Zeppelin's John Bonham as his drumming idol and has often incorporated improvisation into his live performances at open mics across the state.

  • Antonio Brucchieri will compete in the Jersey Talent finals on May 16, 2026 at the State Theatre in New Brunswick.
  • Antonio has been drumming since he was 6 years old.

The players

Antonio Brucchieri

A 10-year-old drummer from Morris County, New Jersey, who is a finalist in the Jersey Talent competition.

School of Rock

A music education program in Chatham, New Jersey, where Antonio Brucchieri is a student.

John Bonham

The legendary drummer for the rock band Led Zeppelin, who has been a major influence and idol for Antonio Brucchieri.

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What they’re saying

“'John Bonham has been my idol since I started listening to Led Zeppelin as a little kid. I love his rhythm and fast playing. His solo in Moby Dick was the song that inspired me to play like him.'”

— Antonio Brucchieri, 10-year-old drummer

“'Most people don't realize how hard it is to play the drums, and drummers are overlooked a lot, but I still wanted to try. Also, my parents forgot to pack my seat, so I panicked. The tech crew found me a chair, though, so it worked out.'”

— Antonio Brucchieri, 10-year-old drummer

What’s next

The winner of the 2026 Jersey Talent competition will be given the opportunity to perform at the New Brunswick Heart Festival in August.

The takeaway

Antonio Brucchieri's participation in the Jersey Talent competition as a 10-year-old drummer showcases the exceptional talent and dedication of young musicians in New Jersey, and highlights the importance of music education programs like the School of Rock in nurturing the next generation of musical artists.