Workshops

Michael’s experience in both Ewe drumming (from coastal Ghana) and Afro-Cuban music goes back more than a decade, beginning in 2012 with a study abroad program at Dagbe Cultural Center in Kopeyia, Ghana. This turned out to be the beginning of an ever-growing, deep respect for the dense history of culturally-rooted music that has come from the African diaspora, with particular focus on the styles that spread to North America and the Caribbean as a result of the transatlantic slave trade.

Workshops explore the history of these music cultures as context behind the rhythms that have come from them. Whether presented solo or alongside other musicians, these workshops typically focus on a single style, and they can lean more heavily into playing, history, or an even balance between the two.

Having studied and collaborated with musicians in Ghana, Colombia, Trinidad & Tobago, Bali, and the United States as well as working with visiting musicians from many other parts of the world, Michael has found significant joy in connecting with people and cultures outside of his own. These workshops are designed to give participants an opportunity to experience that same joy within the context of their own creative goals.

Previous workshops have included adaptating global styles on drum set and in music production as well as working effectively with musicians from different backgrounds.

How many times have you seen the style at the top of a chart just say “Latin”? In most cases, these tunes or arrangements are attempting to emulate a more specific style from one of the many cultures represented in Latin America, and a better understanding what you’re trying to play will take your performance to the next level.

Intended for upper grade school, college, and community bands, this workshop helps participants understand the fundamental rhythms behind commonly interpreted styles, allowing both the music to shine and the musicians to come out of it better prepared to tackle similar music in the future. This workshop can include a standalone drop-in for a rehearsal, a series of workshops, a side-by-side performance with Michael and/or Costas Colectivo, or any combination of these.

Choosing a sound or texture as a percussionist can sometimes feel being a kid with a box filled to the brim with all of your dream toys, so how are you supposed to decide? In music, sound design, and Hollywood foley art, the choice is both an opportunity and responsibility that can shape someone's experience listening to music, watching a movie, or even walking through a theme park.

This immersive workshop for all ages and experience levels explores the intersection of context, intention, and artistic expression, and how the answer is found somewhere in the balance.

Watch “The Percussionist’s Playground” video above for more!

Have an idea for something you think your students, community, group, or organization could benefit from but don’t see it here? Reach out and let Michael know!