House of Drumming.com

Found out late last night that Mike Shapiro has left us.

He was a hell of a teacher with a lot of tough love to give, and took many of us under his wing while at LAMA. Great player, kind soul.

If you're unfamiliar with his work I'd suggest doing some digging. The Sergio Mendes stuff is fantastic.

Sad news A great drummer, he played samba with authenticity, sounding like a Brazilian. I recommend his albuns with Dori Caymmi, Gary Meek and others. I was lucky enough to watch him here in Rio de Janeiro, many years ago, in a concert with Kevyn Lettau.

He was a great player. Played so beautifully on the Kevyn Lettau albums. Got to see him play with Kevyn his wife at musicians institute a few times. His samba time is amazing.

Mike was extraordinaire. Gone too soon. R.I.P.