Mike has been playing drums since 1978 and performing in local bands in the Seattle WA. area since 1982. His performances with bands over the years had him play a variety of musical styles ranging from Heavy Metal, Hard to Soft Rock, Country, Blues, R&B, Big Band, Be-bop, Jazz-Fusion, and Reggae. Mike performed with the "Deems Tsutakawa Band" for over 7 years, a mix of Jazz-Fusion, R&B, Funk, and Straight-ahead jazz. He has also worked with Seattle's renowned jazz bassist Steve Kim . Mike has also performed with flutist Bradley Leighton
Mike graduated from the Art Institute of Seattle WA. as an honor student and with an Associate of Arts degree in the Music/Video Business. He also studied music theory and jazz improvisation at Edmonds Community College.
Inspired by drummers such as Vinnie Coliauta, Dave Weckl, and Steve Gadd, Mike sought out and studied for 5 years under drummer and educator Garey Williams of Seattle WA. to help him attain the next level. During that time he also attended Garey's Master Classes (Studio & Big Band Drumming, Fusion drumming Workshop, Contemporary Drumming Essentials, and Latin Drumming Studies).
Garey Williams gave Mike the honor of a written recommendation to teach not only private instruction but group classes as well.
Mike Troupe
