Austin-based drummer David Sierra has built a unique career that connects high-level musicianship with a deep sense of service. He first got behind the kit at age seven, started playing professionally at a young age, and later studied jazz performance at the University of Texas at Austin, earning the Eleanor Alexander Stribling Award for Excellence in Jazz Studies.
Sierra toured nationally and became widely known for his years as the drummer for the BoDeans (2011–2017), where he developed a reputation for strong time, musical maturity, and the ability to drive a band night after night. After years of full-time performing, he transitioned into medicine and today works in Austin as a nurse anesthetist (CRNA), completing his Doctorate of Nursing Practice in nurse anesthesia in 2021. While healthcare is now his primary career, Sierra continues to perform and stay active as a drummer, often sharing his belief in “music as medicine” — using music to inspire, heal, and bring joy.
Sources: Austin Chamber Music Center artist profile and event bio; David Sierra Instagram (@sierradrums); David Sierra LinkedIn profile; BoDeans member history.
Update: 1/20/26