"The reason I choose Mapex is because Mapex has been one of the top leading companies in our industry for a very long time. Mapex is a big supporter for percussion education and makes the best drums and hardware. Also, I was introduced to Mapex through my very good friend Dom Famularo, who played Mapex drums for a very long time. This is the type of community and support I'm so excited to be a part of."
Murray S. Piper, noted Performer, Instructor, Clinician, and Adjunct Professor at Johns Hopkins University Peabody Preparatory Institute. Piper is the founder and director of Passionate Drumming & Music Lessons, which was driven from his early passion for drums. Piper received his B.S. music degree with a concentration in instrumentalists from Morgan State University. Piper has been teaching drums/percussion since 2004. Piper has been invited to perform for 2 Presidents and Vice Presidents of the United States of America. Piper is also a teaching artist for the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra Orchkids program in Baltimore, MD. Piper has led percussion programs for the University of Maryland Baltimore County dance department since 2018. Piper serves as an active member for the National Percussion Arts Society Drum Set Committee.
Piper is extraordinary in all styles of music such as Rock, Jazz, Gospel, Christian, Latin, Marching, Classical, Blues, and many more. Piper is an Emmy Nominated drummer for his outstanding role in the 2015 Stage Musical “Oh Gospel” The Evolution of Gospel Music. Piper tours with his band "Onyx" playing over 50 shows a year. His drumming and percussion career has launched him into one of the most sought after instructors and drummers of our time. Piper’s skill level and personality has brought him some major partnerships with some of the biggest names in the industry such as Mapex Drums, Vic Firth, Sabian, Sledgepad, StickPro, JAMTec USA, and Evans. Piper has performed with many Steller’s and Grammy artists such as Richard Smallwood, Tamela Mann, Marvin Sapp, Dorinda Clark Cole, Isaiah D. Thomas, American Idol contestants, Broadway Musicals, Washington DC Orchestra, Sunday Best contestants, and Washington Talented Agency Bands. Piper also serves as the main drummer/percussionist at the New Antioch Baptist Church of Randallstown in Baltimore, MD where the congregation is over 10,000 members.
Piper is dedicated to equipping all his students with the instructions for reaching their goals. Piper has taken that same passion in which he plays and teaches to motivate, inspire, and encourage each student to perform at their highest level. Piper's Motto: Building His Community ONE-Beat-At-A-Time!
