Percussion is my passion turned career for more than 30 years. I grew up in the “family business” — both of my parents were high school band directors (and yes, I was in their bands). I currently serve as the Percussion Area Head at the University of Utah, working alongside colleagues (students and faculty) within an incredible, high-energy performance culture. Along with my university work, I perform regularly with the Utah Symphony Orchestra and have played on national touring productions like Disney’s Aladdin, Mean Girls, Mamma Mia, and Harlem Nights. I’m fortunate to be part of Salt Lake City’s world-class music scene, appearing with groups like Ballet West Orchestra, Utah Chamber Artists, NOVA (new music series), and productions at Capitol and Pioneer Theatres — with more than 250 performances in the past five years.

I’ve also been involved in recording projects with Warner Chappell Music, the Utah Symphony, and broadcasts for ABC, ESPN, TNT, and NPR. My latest solo album, Morse Code (more than…), features newly commissioned snare drum works by composers including Áskell Másson, Marc Mellits, Brian Nozny, and Chad Floyd. You can check out the album trailer and streaming links here: https://www.mikesammons.com/morse-code-album

I love sharing what I do through clinics and masterclasses across the U.S. and around the world — including PASIC, the XII Festival de Percussão 2 de Julho in Salvador (Brazil), universities in Rio de Janeiro, Bahia, and Recife, the Northwest Percussion Festival, PAS Days of Percussion, NAfME, and many state music educator conventions. I’ve also studied and traveled in Trinidad, Ghana, and Brazil.

Outside of music, I’m a basketball enthusiast (still playing!) and had the chance to work as the Director of the NBA’s Utah Jazz “Street Beats” Drumline.