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.
Over his 20+ year career, Miah has worked extensively in the studio, taught at various institutions, and given clinics. He has collaborated with Grammy-nominated and award-winning producers, and opened for artists including Steve Vai, Bobby Kimball, and Michael Angelo Batio.
Currently, Miah performs with the DTF Band and Stonebreed, while also working with independent artists. He teaches at the Conservatory of Contemporary Music and is finishing a book on the music industry.
Please contact Miah with any inquiries; contact link is below.
Competitive & Negotiable Rates
Standard Rates
Negotiable
Studio Rate
$100 per hour
Transcription Rates
$50 per hour*
Lessons :
$30 for 25 minutes - $100 for 4 lessons
$45 for 40 minutes - $150 for 4 lessons
$55 for 55 minutes -$180 for 4 lessons
- Cancellation Policy -
50% payment due for less than 24 hours notice
100% payment due if less than 4 hours notice
'Out of Town' Gigs & Recording:
Contract Rates
Touring:
Specifics Requested - Contract Rates
*Travel time to venues is considered
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
Stonebreed
D.T.F., Current, Drummer & Music Director
The Blues Faithful
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31gIL1Idykg
Smokin' Shabba
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-present
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
P.D.P., Drummer & Co-founder, Hollywood, Ca 2003-2005
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XTQZyfv27X0
The Van Dells, 2006-2007
“The Nation’s #1 Rock n’ Roll Review”
L.A. Vibes, Glendale, Ca 2018-2020
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0UEY8PX7ZuU
Francis Buckley, Musicians Institute 2011-2016
Mikal Reid, 2011-2016
https://www.mi.edu/faculty/mikal-reid/
Cherry Cobler Jam 2015-2016
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NYEvRHrVgTM
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.