Timothy Very was an American drummer best known as the longtime percussionist for the Atlanta-based indie rock band Manchester Orchestra. Born on November 21, 1982, or November 22, 1983 (sources vary), in Pensacola, Florida, he joined Manchester Orchestra in 2011, replacing founding drummer Jeremiah Edmond. Very contributed to several critically acclaimed albums and was also a respected session musician who worked with artists including Tom Morello, Foxing, and Chris Staples.
Tim Very Drummer Early Life and Musical Background
Tim Very was born in Pensacola, Florida, where his musical journey began at a young age. He played drums in church alongside Andy Prince, who would later become Manchester Orchestra’s bassist. His father was also a drummer, which influenced Very’s passion for percussion from childhood.
Very started touring with local rock bands in Pensacola, Florida, at a young age. He developed his skills through extensive live performance experience with various regional groups. Before joining Manchester Orchestra, he had a notable stint with the San Diego rock group Waking Ashland.
Tim Very Drummer Career with Manchester Orchestra
Joining the Band
Tim Very first met members of Manchester Orchestra in his early 20s, several years before officially joining the group. He did not become part of the lineup immediately, but those early connections laid the foundation for his eventual role in the band. He officially joined Manchester Orchestra in 2011, replacing departing drummer Jeremiah Edmond.
Recorded Work
Very made his recorded debut with Manchester Orchestra on the album Simple Math (2011). The album marked a defining chapter in the band’s musical growth and showcased his drumming style, which blended precision with emotional depth. He contributed to several of the band’s most significant albums, including Cope (2014), A Black Mile to the Surface (2017), and The Million Masks of God (2021).
Performance Style
His drumming style was noted for combining technical discipline with emotional resonance. Very’s approach balanced technical skill with expressive performance, complementing Manchester Orchestra’s layered compositions and introspective lyrics. He was capable of combining energy with musical sensitivity in both studio recordings and live performances.
Session Work and Collaborations
Beyond his work with Manchester Orchestra, Tim Very was a respected session musician. He contributed to recordings by various artists including Tom Morello, Foxing, and Chris Staples. Very also worked on projects with B.o.B, Bad Books, and Brother Bird.
He was involved in producing, writing, and filming with other artists throughout his career. Very made himself available for studio sessions while maintaining his position with Manchester Orchestra.
Tim Very Drummer Age
There are conflicting sources regarding Tim Very’s exact birth year. One source lists his birthdate as November 21, 1982, which would have made him 43 years old. Another source states he was born on November 22, 1983, which would have made him 42 years old at the time of his death in February 2026.
Tim Very Drummer Wife and Family Life
Information about Tim Very’s wife or marital status is not publicly disclosed. The band’s tribute following his death noted that he was a loving father. Family remained central to Very’s life, and colleagues frequently described him as someone who valued time spent with loved ones.
Tim Very Drummer Net Worth
Tim Very’s net worth is not publicly disclosed. As a professional drummer with Manchester Orchestra and an active session musician, his income came from album sales, touring, live performances, and studio work. Specific financial details about his earnings or assets have not been made public.
Equipment and Endorsements
Tim Very was endorsed by several major drum and cymbal manufacturers. He was a Vic Firth artist, using their drumsticks and equipment. He was also endorsed by Zildjian cymbals. Additionally, he used Low Boy Custom Beaters for his drum kit.
Notable Moments
One memorable anecdote from Very’s touring years involved Travis Barker of Blink-182. According to accounts, Very was once saved from a potentially serious bike accident on tour thanks to Barker’s quick intervention. The incident became part of his touring lore and highlighted the camaraderie shared among musicians on the road.
Professional Philosophy
Very described himself as someone who went to the “school of hard knocks” and started recording and touring at a young age. He expressed his love for playing drums and touring, stating: “It wasn’t always glamorous but I LOVED PLAYING and stuck with it”. After 25 years in the music industry, he found himself touring the world with Manchester Orchestra and making studio albums.
Band Relationships
Tim Very shared the stage with Manchester Orchestra’s lead singer Andy Hull throughout his tenure with the band. The band, which was formed in 2004, also included lead guitarist Robert McDowell and bassist Andy Prince. Colleagues frequently described Very as warm, approachable, and deeply passionate about his craft.
Tim Very Drummer Death
Tim Very passed away in February 2026 at the age of 42. Manchester Orchestra confirmed his death on social media on February 14, 2026. In their heartfelt tribute, the band described him as “the most beloved human being any of us were lucky enough to know in this life”.
The band highlighted Very’s infectious laugh, kindness, and warmth, noting that his humor and energy were foundational to the group’s dynamic. They stated: “Please know, if you are someone who loved Tim, he loved you too”.
Tim Very Drummer Legacy
Tim Very’s work with Manchester Orchestra cemented his place in modern American indie rock history. By combining technical discipline with emotional resonance, he helped shape the band’s sound during a critical era spanning from 2011 to 2026. Those who worked alongside him often noted that his character and positivity were just as impactful as his musical performances.