Dante Kierstead
Drums & Percussion
Dante Kierstead is an in-demand drummer actively performing across Halifax’s vibrant music scene.
UPCOMING SHOWS:
Dante Kierstead
Creative Motivated Organized Versatile
Blending Tradition
with Innovation
Dante Kierstead is a drummer and percussionist based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Known for his creative energy, reliability, and collaborative spirit, Dante brings dynamic grooves and versatility to every project—on stage and in the studio.
A passionate and dedicated musician, he fuses traditional technique with forward-thinking rhythms to create a style that’s both deeply rooted and refreshingly new. With a strong work ethic and a love for collaboration, Dante is always striving for growth and new musical experiences.
Recent work
Whether performing live, recording in the studio, or exploring new sounds, Dante brings a fresh perspective to every project. Explore recent performances and collaborations below, or watch more on YouTube.
Honours and awards:
Judith A. Grant Award
Nova Scotia Talent Trust, December 2025
Judith A. Grant Bursary
Nova Scotia Talent Trust, July 2025
Dream Hughie Award
The Hughie Langin Foundation, May 2025
Second Year Highest Average (Music Arts Program)
NSCC Foundation, May 2025
First Year Highest Average (Music Arts Program)
NSCC Foundation, May 2024
NSCC Entrance Award
NSCC Foundation, June 2023
Kaye Dimock Pottie Scholarship
Fine Arts Parents Association, June 2023
Stan Carew Memorial Scholarship
Citadel High School, June 2023
Larrie Londin Memorial Scholarship
Percussive Arts Society, June 2023
James H. Hargreaves Memorial Scholarship
Nova Scotia Band Association, June 2023
Charlie A’Court Scholarship for Excellence in Music
Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Creative Arts, May 2023
Outstanding Musician Award
Nova Scotia Band Association, December 2021
Champion Supreme, Grade 5 Drummer
Atlantic Canada Pipe Band Association, October 2018
Catherine A. Fowler Award for Junior Drumming
Dartmouth Pipe & Drum Band Association, October 2018
Dante Kierstead
Drums & Percussion
Experience, Education & Memberships
Dante is an in-demand drummer actively performing across Halifax’s vibrant music scene. He is the drummer for the bands Hobo Aquarium, idialedyournumber, and Noel Morgan & The Salty Groove. He also performs at The Economy Shoe Shop’s Tuesday Night Jazz Sessions and supports artists such as Alvaro, Jah’Mila, Madeline and others as a trusted backup and fill-in drummer.
Celebrated for blending traditional drumming techniques with innovative rhythms, Dante brings versatility and reliability to every project. His experience includes jazz bands, pipe bands, school/college ensembles and numerous live settings. Dante also has experience as a studio session drummer and enjoys collaborating and performing with many local artists.
In May 2025 Dante had the opportunity to travel to Cuba with the Los Primos Project and perform with both the NSCC ensembles, NSyJO and Cuban musicians at various venues.
Dante is a member of Music Nova Scotia, the Jazz Education Network, and Percussive Arts Society.
He has volunteered at major events such as the Juno Awards, Halifax Jazz Festival, NS Music Week, and Rankin’s Winter Warmers.
He recently completed his Music Arts Diploma at NSCC Ivany Campus and is currently continuing his studies at Dalhousie University (BMus).
Feel free to reach out and connect via email.
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