Ross Murakami
About
With 14 years of drumming experience and professional touring since 2018, I’ve had the opportunity to perform with some incredible artists and at renowned festivals. I'm passionate about sharing my skills and enthusiasm for drumming, and I’m excited about the opportunity to collaborate and rock with you!
Drum Videos: Please visit rossmurakami.com :)
Touring History:
The Palms
- 2024: Headline US Tour
Tiffany Day
- 2025: Headline US Tour
- 2024: Stay In Bloom Festival, Stanford, CA
- 2023: Direct Support for Jeremy Zucker US Tour
- 2023: BubblePop Festival, Barcelona, Spain
- 2023: Headline US Tour
- 2022: Direct Support for Blu DeTiger US Tour
- 2022: Headline US Tour
Trophy Wives
- 2023: Label Showcase w/ Imagine Dragons & St. Lucia
Lauren Ruth Ward
- 2022: Headline US Tour
YIP YOPS
- 2019: Support for KONGOS & Fitness (AWOLNATION/Eve6) US Tour
- 2018: Direct Support for Lauren Ruth Ward US Tour
- 2017: Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival
Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to the possibility of working with you!
Teaching Style
My drum teaching style is centered around building a strong foundation while encouraging creativity and self-expression. I focus on developing technique, rhythm, and coordination through a structured approach that is tailored to each student’s skill level and musical goals. Whether working on fundamental drumming concepts or more advanced patterns, I prioritize clear communication, patience, and positive reinforcement to help students gain confidence and progress at their own pace. I strive to create a fun and supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable experimenting and growing as musicians.
Curriculum
My teaching style is methodical yet adaptable, designed to meet the unique needs of each student. I emphasize building strong fundamentals, including hand and foot coordination, timing, and rudiments, while also fostering creativity and musicality. I aim to keep lessons engaging by incorporating a variety of drumming styles, from rock and pop to jazz and funk, allowing students to explore different genres and find their own musical voice.
For recommended student texts, I often use:
- Progressive Steps to Syncopation for the Modern Drummer by Ted Reed – an excellent resource for developing reading skills and rhythmic independence.
- The New Breed by Gary Chester – a great text for improving coordination and groove.
- Stick Control for the Snare Drummer by George Lawrence Stone – a classic for developing hand technique and speed.
- The Drummer’s Bible by Mick Berry and Jason Gianni – a comprehensive guide to different styles and techniques.
These resources, combined with personalized exercises and regular practice, will help students develop both technical skills and musicality.
Credentials & Affiliations
I bring 14 years of drumming experience and have been touring professionally since 2018. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to perform with incredible artists such as Tiffany Day, Lauren Ruth Ward, Jeremy Zucker, Blu DeTiger, Imagine Dragons, St. Lucia, and KONGOS. This experience has allowed me to develop a versatile musical style and the ability to adapt to different genres and settings.
In addition to my performance experience, I've had the privilege of playing at renowned events like the BubblePop Festival in Barcelona, Spain, and the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. I've also had the honor of playing both headline and support roles on tours with artists like The Palms, Tiffany Day, Trophy Wives, Lauren Ruth Ward, and YIP YOPS.
These experiences have shaped my approach to drumming, and I'm passionate about sharing what I’ve learned with others.