Drummer Marcel Berteaux is the artist behind the exceptional rhythms in NuBiAh, the musical. Using the African drum, he creates powerful, complex beats that bring to life the passion of the words and songs. A third-generation Mexican-American, Marcel grew up in Northern California and became interested in music at a young age. At nine, he began playing the piano; and at twelve, the drum set. After high school, he enrolled at California State University, Chico, where he initially studied computer science. However, he soon realized that music was his true calling, and switched his major to the recording arts program, which focused on both the technical and artistic aspects of music. At the time, Marcel was much more interested in learning about technology and its use in music than he was in the actual process of recording. After graduation, he spent many years working with the technical aspects of music, but performed, as well. He developed an interest in world music—particularly Salsa and Afro-Cuban percussion—and played the piano in several Salsa groups. During his early twenties, Marcel was diagnosed with Becker’s Muscular Dystrophy, a late-onset form of muscular dystrophy, which causes muscle wasting and weakness in the limbs and bones. Although he has been fortunate in that his symptoms are not as severe as some who have the disorder, he has faced his share of struggles and learned to appreciate everything he is able to do. Despite certain physical limitations, Marcel has not stopped living his passion. He continues to play drums and percussion with the same energy and enthusiasm he always has. His triumph over physical adversity demonstrates that anything is possible with passion, hard work and dedication.   Marcel resides in Davis, California, where he plays the drums in Over Forte, a Dixieland/traditional jazz group, and in The Style Shop, which performs Latin jazz and swing standards. His personal collection of instruments includes African and Middle Eastern drums, as well as various handheld percussion instruments.