"I am blessed to have had long-standing relationships with the following companies and craftsmen, all of whom strive every day to bring the finest quality products to the stage and studio. These are my tools for self-expression, and I rely on them to help me deliver the music that flows through me. My sincerest thanks to all of them." - John Van Ness

John currently performs and records with the following gear: 

George H Way Drum Co. Drum craftsman Ronn Dunnett has lovingly revived the George H Way Drum Company with Elsie Way's blessings. No gimmicks or clever buzzwords,  just sensible sizes, quality fittings, perfect bearing edges, and flawless finishes. They are available at specialty drum shops nationwide, but my favorite spot is Drum Center Portsmouth, NH. If you have any questions about a George Way kit or snare drum for yourself (or need any other drum gear) please give them a call at (603) 319-8109, and tell them John Van Ness sent you! They are the best!

Dunnett Classic Snare Drums I own three of Ronn's snare drum creations, and I'm certain there will be at least one more. The first is a 6.5x4 High Carbon Steel snare drum with a matte black finish. This drum has no "ceiling". It will get as loud as you want with a structural rigidity and stiffness to the shell that transmits energy rather than choke. The 2nd drum is a 5.5"x14 heavy-shell Aluminum that is like sounds like a Ludwig Acrolite on Steroids. Wonderfully dry, yet very responsive and versatile. My most recent acquisition is a Dunnett built SONO (Spirit of New Orleans) 4.5"x14" Stanton Moore model in Acacia. I also have a Cask-Craft solid Maple drum lovingly crafted by Micah Doering. It utilizes Ronn Dunnett's throwoff, butt, tube lugs, and hoops.

DW Pedals & Hardware I have been using DW Pedals and Hardware for decades now. Some hesitate at the premium price-tag, but I never have to question if it will hold up. It's pretty much bulletproof. The chrome finish on the stands is awesome, and I've had the same stands for about 10 years now. My single and double pedals work flawlessly. They are smooth and well-built and just feel "right".

Paiste Cymbals My love affair with Paiste products started in high-school. While I have played and worked for many cymbal companies as a traveling sales rep (including Paiste), owning and playing a lovely set of primarily 602 and Signature Paiste Cymbals again felt like "returning home". They are a big part of my sound. 

Evans Drumheads I have been using Evans Drumheads for decades. They've always been durable and consistent. Every drum has a "sweet spot" and it does not take long to find it with Evans Drumheads. Steve Lobmeier at Evans is attentive, knows the product, and is one of the few friends who writes just to check on me!

Yamaha Electronics I am currently utilizing an EAD-10 module for recording videos at home. I have ample sound offerings to create a hybrid electronic/acoustic setup if the situation calls for it.

Dauz Trigger Pads So happy to be working with Dan Dauz and his products after knowing him for 3 decades!