Mike Assad has performed as a freelance drummer and percussionist for more than a decade. Since moving to Memphis in 2001, he has performed regularly with various working bands as well as with a variety of local artists. He has also performed with several big bands and orchestras including the Memphis Jazz Orchestra, the Memphis Symphony Orchestra and the Corinth Symphony Orchestra. Mike is a member of the University of Memphis Faculty Jazz Ensemble and Birth of the Cool Ensemble as well as the Rhodes College Faculty Jazz Ensemble. Mike received his Bachelor's Degree from the University of Kentucky in 1999 and his Master's Degree from the University of Memphis in 2003. Currently, Mike teaches drum set and ethnic percussion at the University of Memphis, Rhodes College and the Memphis Drum Shop.