Claude Schnell

Upon arriving in Los Angeles in the early 1980s, it was not long before his virtuoso talents were in high demand. He formed two promising bands, Magic and Rough Cutt. By 1983, his musical diligence and precision had earned him a reputation as one of L.A.'s most serious and well-respected players.

He joined Dio in May 1983 and first played with them on the Holy Diver tour, though he did not play on the album itself. After almost seven years in the band, he chose to redefine his artistic focus, and embark upon his own musical Odyssey. He later became a member of the band Last in Line (from 2012-2015) with former members of Dio.