A talented multi-instrumental percussionist, Collier debuted at age 13 on The Lawrence Welk Show. He became intrigued with jazz and odd time signatures through Brubeck. Relocating to Los Angeles in 1974, he played with Ernie Watts, Bill Holman, Shelly Manne, Howard Roberts, Bobby Shew, and Don Ellis. He joined the faculty at the University of Washington in 1980, and has recorded a number of albums as a leader. ~ David Szatmary