Secret Lives: Drumming to a New Beat

Angela Kozarich’s work as a Pharmacy Technician at OhioHealth keeps her busy supporting patient care, but outside the office, it’s the rhythm of the drum kit that fuels her.

Kozarich has been drawn to drumming for as long as she can remember. “I don’t know why I wanted to play drums, I just knew there was something about the drums,” she said. She started in fifth grade, playing snare drum in marching and concert band throughout school. But it wasn’t until 16 years ago that Kozarich picked up the sticks again and fully embraced her passion.

“My husband found a drum set at a thrift store,” she said. “He asked if I wanted to buy it, and I couldn’t pass it up. I started playing in the basement, just playing along to recordings.”

As a birthday gift from her husband, Kozarich started taking drum kit lessons. It didn’t take long for her teacher to recognize her talent and encourage her to take the next step. Soon, she was a regular at Columbus' local blues jams, learning from seasoned musicians who welcomed her into the scene.

Now, she plays with ‘Change It Up Charlie,’ a band that blends pop, blues, rock and jazz. They perform regularly at local venues and events, including Natalie’s Grandview, the Creekside Jazz and Blues Festival in Gahanna and the Cincinnati Blues Challenge.

Playing in a band is all about the collaboration, something Kozarich thrives on. “I really enjoy serving the music, serving the other musicians,” she said. Though she considers herself an introvert, that disappears when she’s behind the kit, earning her the nickname “Animal” for the energy she brings to every performance.

Her time on stage has also helped her at the OhioHealth Infusion Pharmacy, where she interacts with patients daily. "Everyone hears the drums. I just have to put myself out there,” she said. "It’s taught me how to get along with people, how to get the information I need, how to be empathetic.”

As a female drummer, Kozarich has faced her share of challenges. “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, that they always wanted to try it, and they never thought that they could break into the female drummer scene,” she said. “I always encourage women to play. I hope we have more female drummers.”

Listen to ‘Change It Up Charlie’ at changeitupcharlie.com.

Secret Lives is an ongoing series that shares the unusual past careers and unique hobbies of OhioHealth associates, physicians and volunteers.