Joe "The Algorithm" Ponder is an accomplished session drummer, percussionist, and educator who has been working freelance in Texas for over 10 years. He holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Performance from Texas State University, and a Master of Music degree in Jazz Studies from Texas State University as well. He has received world-class instruction from some of the industry's leading experts, such as Butch Miles, Arthur Latin, Genaro Gonzales, Dr. Sarah Burke, Dr. Craig Garrett, and Dr. Utah Hamrick. 

He began his journey in music when his parents enrolled him in drum set lessons at the age of ten. After a successful year of lessons, his parents enrolled him in middle school concert band where he discovered his love for music. He continued his journey in high school and later college where he decided to turn his passion of drumming into a successful career.

During his time in school, he had the opportunity to perform with many talented groups, such as the Texas Community College All-State Band, Bobcat Marching Band, Texas State Wind Symphony, Texas State Jazz Ensemble, and Guardians Drum and Bugle Corps. He has performed at events such as TMEA, PASIC, BOA Regionals, DCI Finals, and the Corpus Christi Jazz Festival.

Today, he works full-time as a session drummer with a plethora of groups ranging from country bands to jazz quartets. His blended background of music gives him a unique edge in an industry that is more competitive and diverse then ever before. He is currently on tour with Dreamer artist Hank Weaver and has toured with others such as Dustin De La Garza, Cody Joe Hodges, Aubry Rodriguez, Nik Parr, Ashton Naylor, Cameron Albright, Cameron Sacky, and Grace Womack. He has also recorded with various songwriters and bands such as Hank Weaver, Bartly, and My Nextdoor Neighbor. 

One of his current part-time gigs is with the Jordan Kahn Music Company, which is an orchestra that provides entertainment for corporate events and weddings both domestically and internationally. Another gig is with the Millennial Choir and Orchestra, which is a nationally recognized ensemble that performs in multiple states across the country. He is currently a member of the percussion section with that group.

When it comes to teaching, he leads his own private lesson studio as an active instructor while helping to assist programs around the Austin area. He has almost 10 years of experience teaching at all age and experience levels, and he focuses on a multitude of topics that involve drum set, percussion, and music business. He is currently the Percussion Instructor at Liberty Hill ISD where he teaches at the middle school and the high school.