Mike West
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Mike has had a beat in his head for as long as he can remember, and it has found its way out through all things percussion. It began with a single snare drum and has revealed itself in all kinds of music and groups. From grade school orchestra, to marching corps, to rock and roll, to church worship bands, Jazz, and now “The Blues”! There has always been a need for the rhythm in Mike’s head to be heard, sometime to the frustration of family, friends and strangers, who don’t always want or appreciate the finger snapping/drumming regardless of how “sweet” the beat is.
The drums have allowed Mike to communicate his love for music and have introduced him to many amazing people throughout his life. His roots are in rock and roll beginning in the Midwest (St. Louis and Chicago) before coming to Silicon Valley 26 years ago. He appreciates a wide spectrum of music and was influenced early by Motown, The Beatles, Stones, Cream (Clapton, Bruce, and Baker), BS and T, Sting, and today Coldplay, Dave Matthews, John Mayer, and Roots. The drummers who inspire Mike to always want to get better are Buddy Rich, Steve Gadd, Ginger Baker, Phil Collins, and Carter Buford. Mike and his wife Sandy have been married for many years with 4 (musical) kids, 10 (musical) grandkids and he has had the opportunity of working with a number of SV companies at an executive and board level. |