Manchester Orchestra Drummer Timothy Very Dies at 42
- The music world is mourning the loss of Timothy Very, drummer for the acclaimed Atlanta-based band Manchester Orchestra.
- Manchester Orchestra announced Very’s passing on social media on February 14, 2026, describing him as “the most beloved human being any of us were lucky enough to know...
- Very joined Manchester Orchestra in 2011, stepping into the role previously held by Jeremiah Edmond.
The music world is mourning the loss of Timothy Very, drummer for the acclaimed Atlanta-based band Manchester Orchestra. He was 42.
Manchester Orchestra announced Very’s passing on social media on , describing him as “the most beloved human being any of us were lucky enough to know in this life.” The band expressed their disbelief and devastation, acknowledging the profound impact he had on their collective journey.
Very joined Manchester Orchestra in 2011, stepping into the role previously held by Jeremiah Edmond. He quickly became an integral part of the band’s sound, contributing his rhythmic expertise to all of their subsequent studio albums, beginning with ’s ‘Simple Math’ and most recently on their sixth album, ’s ‘The Million Masks Of God.’
Beyond his technical skill, the band’s statement highlighted Very’s exceptional character. They remembered him as instantly likable, radiating kindness and warmth, and possessing a laugh that was “infectious.” He fostered a sense of community, transforming strangers into friends and friends into family within the band’s orbit. “His humor and energy were the very foundation that held together the entire MO universe,” they wrote.
Born on , in Pensacola, Florida, Very’s musical roots ran deep. He shared an early musical connection with Manchester Orchestra bassist Andy Prince, playing together in church and local bands during their youth. Before joining Manchester Orchestra, Very was a member of the San Diego rock group Waking Ashland, gaining experience and honing his craft.
His contributions to Manchester Orchestra extended beyond simply keeping time. The band’s music, known for its emotional depth and complex arrangements, benefited from Very’s versatile drumming and nuanced rhythmic textures. He wasn’t merely a timekeeper; he was a vital component of the band’s artistic expression.
The band’s most recent performance with Very was a homecoming show at The Eastern in Atlanta in . This final performance now carries a poignant weight, serving as a reminder of his vibrant presence and the joy he brought to both the band and their fans.
The outpouring of grief from the band underscores the deeply personal nature of their loss. They emphasized that Very’s love for music was surpassed only by his devotion to his family, describing him as a “joyful dad.” Their final message to him, and to those who loved him, was one of gratitude and enduring affection: “We love you Tim, thank you for loving us. You are a force of positivity that will be a constant presence in the rest of our days.”
While the cause of death has not been disclosed, the suddenness of his passing has left the Manchester Orchestra family, and undoubtedly countless fans, in a state of shock and mourning. Timothy Very’s legacy will live on through the music he helped create and the warmth he shared with those around him.