Toby Elliott is a Chicago-based freelance drummer, percussionist, and educator recognized for exceptional versatility across diverse musical genres. Equally at home in jazz clubs, concert halls, theaters, and rock venues, he showcases a dynamic range that spans straight-ahead jazz, classical orchestral repertoire, musical theatre, rock/pop, and experimental music. A commitment to artistic excellence and collaboration drives every performance, fostering engaging musical experiences that resonate with audiences. Elliott is passionate about teaching and sharing knowledge while contributing to the growth of aspiring musicians in the vibrant Chicago music scene.

Most recently, he has come back from a sold out run at the Joyce Theatre in New York City with the Trinity Irish Dance Company culminating with a final performance at Chicago’s very own Auditorium Theatre. Toby serves as the percussionist for TIDC as well as filling in on drumset and keyboards. “By using Irish dance as an instrument and a metaphor, TIDC redefines the medium with passion, flair, and precision” (© 2026, Trinity Irish Dance Company). As a member of the Company’s band, Elliott looks to uphold TIDC’s mission through his driving, percussive rhythms.

As an educator, Toby provides group and private instruction on classical percussion and drumset. Elliott has been coaching percussion, concert band, and jazz summer camps at Waubonsie Valley High School since 2022, and he also has served as the director of the Neuqua Valley High School Front Ensemble for the 2025-26 season. His teaching philosophy focuses on understanding the unique blend of passion and technique required to be a successful, working musician. Not only does Elliott push his students to become great musicians, but also great humans.

Toby studied at DePaul University in Chicago where he received formal training in both Classical Percussion and Jazz Drums. As an undergraduate student, he earned the DePaul School of Music Award scholarship and was guided by his mentors Eric Millstein, Ian Ding, and Dana Hall among many other talented faculty members at DePaul.

Toby Elliott proudly plays Yamaha, Zildjian, Vic Firth, Bosphorus Innovative Percussion, Malletech, and Pearl/Adams equipment.