About
Playing drums has been a major part of Mike Hyman’s life since he began playing at the age of five. Within a year of beginning his first drum lessons Mike was performing with professionals in the Louisville, Kentucky area and studying with master jazz educator Jamey Aebersold. Before his teen years, he was part of the rhythm section that recorded four play-along recordings in the Aebersold educational series.
Mike soon became a first call musician as a member of the James Williams (pianist) quartet with saxophonist Billy Pierce and bassist John Lockwood. Following graduation from high school, Mike moved to Boston and began taking lessons from drum master Alan Dawson. A move to New York found Mike performing with John McNeil and the Gerry Mulligan Big Band to mention only a few. From 1976 thru 1996 Mike performed and recorded with saxophone great Joe Henderson as a member of his quartet and big band. In 1979, Mike toured worldwide and recorded three albums with vibraphonist Gary Burton. Joining Stan Getz’s band in 1980, Mike recorded and performed in Carnegie Hall.
Moving to San Francisco in 1985 and then in Los Angeles, Mike continued to work with Joe Henderson but also diversified his musical experiences, playing varied styles of music from funk to reggae, New Orleans to blues. During this time he recorded with Jimmy Earl, Jeff Beal, Mitch Forman, and even joined slide guitarist Roy Rogers’ band, recording two albums. During his spare time, Mike attended classes at San Francisco City College, making the Dean’s list. Eventually moving back to New York, Mike continued to perform and began sharing his love of drums and music through teaching.
Mike currently lives in his hometown, Louisville, teaching privately at the University of Louisville and Kentucky Country Day School while continuing his busy performance schedule.