Michael Vandiver:  

Life All things percussion has interested me since I started learning drums at the age of 12. Born and raised in St. Augustine, FL, I began my study of percussion locally at Murray Middle School under the direction of Wayne Journelan. After two years at Murray I continued learning percussion as a member of the St. Augustine High School music ensembles. After graduation in 1986 I decided to pursue a degree in Music Education. That fall I began my studies at Florida Community College at Jacksonville under the direction of Dr. Dale Blackwell. While at FCCJ, I toured and performed as a member of the FCCJ Jazz Ensemble, Wind Ensemble and Musical Theater group. I finished my studies at The Florida State University in Tallahassee receiving a bachelor’s degree in Music Education in the fall of 1992. While at FSU, I studied and participated in master classes with various instructors including Gary Werdesheim, John Beck, Michael Burritt, John Thurston, Charlie Carter and James Croft. In 1993 I began began my teaching career at Cape Coral High School in Cape Coral, FL. I spent 8 years there as Director of Bands and Music Department Chairman. Under my direction and guidance th...Expand for more