Michael Benöhr is a London-based drummer and educator with a career spanning over 15 years. His work as a performer and tutor has taken him to many countries around the world, such as Germany, the Netherlands, the UK, Ireland, the USA, Chile, and China.
Originally from Concepción, Chile, Michael studied music education and performance at the University of the Arts Bremen, Germany, and at California State University of Long Beach, USA before relocating to London in 2008. Since then, he has built a dynamic career as a session drummer and educator, founding the East London Drum School in 2012 and the London School of Music in 2017.
He has taught alongside renowned drummers including Derrick McKenzie (Jamiroquai), Dave Lombardo (Slayer), Kaz Rodríguez (Chaka Khan), and Jamie Morrison (Stereophonics). During the pandemic, he delivered online masterclasses across Latin America with Jamiroquai’s rhythm section — McKenzie, Paul Turner, and Rob Harris.
As a performer, Michael has appeared at major venues and festivals such as The O2 and The Jazz Cafe in London, Lovebox Festival, and Club de Jazz de Santiago, with appearances on radio and television platforms like Kerrang! Radio and MTV.
He regularly tours internationally and recently returned from his third tour of China, teaching masterclasses in seven cities. He has also toured Chile performing and giving masterclasses at institutions such as Pro Jazz Institute in Santiago, as well as with his jazz/funk band Pillbox Jam.
Michael’s YouTube channel and social media showcase his wide-ranging musical style across genres, from jazz and funk to rock and electronic music.