Ted Atkatz is the founder of and frontman for the Chicago-based alternative rock group NYCO. He is a former principal percussionist for the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

Atkatz left the CSO in 2006 to devote himself full-time to NYCO. The band released its debut album, Two, in 2005.

Atkatz grew up in Queens, New York, where began studying percussion at an early age. He studied at the preparatory division of the Manhattan School of Music and graduated from Benjamin N. Cardozo High School before moving on to Boston University, where he received a bachelor's degree in percussion performance and music education. He later studied at the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston and received a professional studies degree in percussion performance from Temple University.

NYCO released its second album, "Realize," in June 2008.

[edit] External links

• A Musician's Integrity: Ted Atkatz's story
• From Lead Percussionist to Different Drummer, The New York Times, February 6, 2007
• Boston University College of Fine Arts Presents 2006 Distinguished Alumni Awards
• NYCO official Web site
• Vic Firth Artist: Ted Atkatz