Angela Kozarich balances her work as a pharmacy technician at OhioHealth with a passion for drumming. Her interest in drums began at a young age, although she can't pinpoint the exact reason for her attraction. "I don’t know why I wanted to play drums, I just knew there was something about the drums," she said. Her journey started in fifth grade with the snare drum and rekindled 16 years ago when her husband discovered a drum set at a thrift store. "He asked if I wanted to buy it, and I couldn’t pass it up," she explained.
Encouraged by a birthday gift of drum lessons, she soon became a fixture at local blues jams in Columbus, receiving mentorship from experienced musicians. Presently, she plays with the band 'Change It Up Charlie,' known for its mix of pop, blues, rock, and jazz. They perform in various local venues, including Natalie's Grandview, the Creekside Jazz and Blues Festival, and the Cincinnati Blues Challenge.
Kozarich values collaboration with her bandmates, saying, "I really enjoy serving the music, serving the other musicians." Her performances have also enriched her professional life by teaching her to engage empathetically with patients. "Everyone hears the drums. I just have to put myself out there," she shared. "It’s taught me how to get along with people, how to get the information I need, how to be empathetic."
Despite encountering skepticism about her abilities as a female drummer, she views her role as a source of inspiration. "I’ve had people question my abilities, but I've also had young girls come up to me saying that I'm an inspiration to them," she noted. Kozarich is committed to encouraging more women to join the field, saying, "I always encourage women to play. I hope we have more female drummers."
More about 'Change It Up Charlie' can be found at their website changeitupcharlie.com.