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Miah Palmer - Drummer & Instructor
Miah began studying music at age 9 and received his first drum set at 12. Through various school bands, he gained early exposure to diverse musical styles and genres.
At 16, he launched his professional career, opening for acts like Type O Negative and Skankin' Pickle with his high school rock group. Two years later, he joined the U.S. Army, earning four Army Achievement Medals before completing his enlistment with an honorable discharge.
In 2003, Miah moved to Los Angeles to attend the Musicians Institute. Since then, he has performed with ensembles ranging from small trios to big bands, playing everything from private events and weddings to corporate functions and live television.
He performs with the DTF Band, the Josh Rogan Trio, The Blues Faithful, Stonebreed, fills in occasionally for Garden of Eden/Crenshaw, all while working with local independent artists. He teaches independently, at the Conservatory of Contemporary Music, and covers at Sound Check Music. Recently, Miah finished his first book on success in the music industry, The Irreplaceable Musician.
Over his 30+ year career, Miah has worked extensively in the studio, taught at various institutions, and given instructional clinics. He has collaborated with Grammy-nominated and award-winning producers, and opened for artists including L.A. Guns, Steve Vai, Bobby Kimball, Alien Ant Farm, Pentagram, Carmen Appice, Armored Saint, Dizzy Reed, Michael Angelo Batio, Boy Hits Car, and many, many more.
A quote from Miah, which he stands by: "If you won't invest in your musicians, why should they invest in you?"
Please contact Miah with any inquiries; contact link is below.
Competitive Modern Rates
Lessons & Bundled Packages :
$40 for 30 minutes - $120 for 4 lessons
$55 for 45 minutes - $150 for 4 lessons
$65 for 60 minutes -$180 for 4 lessons
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Standard Rates
Anything from "lunch" to $5000/hour
Basic Studio Rate
$100/hour*
Transcription Rates
$50/hour*
'Day-Rate' Gigs & Travel:
$150-250/Day*
Touring Rates:
Specifics Requested - Competitive Rates
* indicates baseline rates
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Free Lesson & Play-Along Links:
Crazy Army Rudimental Example
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rSzE9st-x2Y&t=67s
Swing Free Etude Example
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h33g7CCooWM
16th Note Bass Drum Exercise (Free Lessons)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OrmdYLg93C0
Moeller Technique - 16th note B.D. variation
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8BGQn60Yxk4&list=PLLQlZ6BvWh1titI0RArrZFYRIL4Lw2quF&index=15
Drum Play Along Example
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRakNJ_CFVk&list=PLLQlZ6BvWh1titI0RArrZFYRIL4Lw2quF&index=2
Yellow Moon @ Musicians Institute
Experience & Gigs
D.T.F. Band, Drummer & Music Director (current)
https://www.youtube.com/@DTFRock
Josh Rogan Trio (current)
Stonebreed (former)
The Blues Faithful (sub)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31gIL1Idykg
Smokin' Shabba (former)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7jvg1DqjF4
Musicians Institute, Hollywood, Ca 2007-2016
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5ghkTau5BU
Hot Club of North Hollywood, 2014-2019
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJOUlT8mhS0
M.I.A. Quartet, Los Angeles, Ca 2018-2020
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LnHgn_cckcs
Tall As Trees, 2013-2017
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X9ztVlMUOG0
Popular Giants, 2013-2014
MTv: ‘Party Down South’
Discovery’s ‘Bikerlive’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=crx8CmCLOtE
The Doosh 2010-2014
https://www.youtube.com/user/stevedushocki
The Van Dells, 2006-2007
“The Nation’s #1 Rock n’ Roll Review”
P.D.P., Drummer & Co-founder, Hollywood, Ca 2003-2005
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XTQZyfv27X0
Audio Links via Sound Cloud:
Student & Parent Testimonials
Isela
My son had Miah as a drum teacher for over 5 years. Miah's teaching approach was remarkable in its ability to adapt to my son's needs and musical preferences. He carefully tailored each lesson to align with my son's skill level, ensuring my son was engaged and steadily progressing.
Beyond his technical proficiency and passion for drumming, Miah's genuine care for my son set him apart as an exceptional educator. He took the time to understand my son's strengths and weaknesses, offering encouragement and guidance when needed.
We are deeply grateful for the positive impact Miah has had on my son's life. He not only taught the fundamentals of drumming but also instilled in him a lifelong love for music. His dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to my son's development will always be cherished.
Jason M.
Miah was just was I was looking for, within minutes of the lesson I already felt comfortable and was learning things about the drums I never knew existed and could only be demonstrated in person. No question was a dumb one and he answered everything I asked. I learned a lot from our 1st lesson and have some homework to do and looking forward to learning more from him. Highly recommend him to any drummer looking to learn and have fun at the same time!
Natalie R.
Miah is an amazing drum teacher! You’ll learn so much even in just one lesson, and it’s incredibly motivating to see your own progress under his guidance. He’s super knowledgeable and makes sure the lesson is tailored to you—constantly checking in to ensure you’re getting exactly what you need. He’s not only skilled, but also thoughtful and considerate, which makes the whole experience really encouraging and supportive.
Greg H.
Miah is an incredibly talented and organized professional. He provides thorough and thoughtful instruction at all levels and is succinct and to the point as well as provides professional notation examples in multiple formats. Highest recommendation to study with.