Mike Liston, Founder Rhythms of Life

A life-long drummer, Mike’s career as a drum circle facilitator evolved from a passion for music and a desire to work with children and adults. This innovative path has allowed him to work with thousands, including: at-risk children, teachers/principals, people in recovery, and health-care and business professionals, both regionally and nationally. 

In 2002, Mike founded Rhythms of Life (ROL) to bring creative, movement-based activities to children in after-school programs and physical education classes. Drumming eventually became the backbone of the curricula. Through two partnerships with REMO Drums and The Africa Heartwood Project he has acquired 200 drums, allowing him to facilitate large groups.

Since drumming can be loud, and finding space to play can be a challenge, Mike developed the DrumBus, a renovated school buses that provide a comfortable space to play. Each bus is equipped with drums and percussion and can accommodate groups up to 25. 

He has facilitated workshops for thousands and presented at dozens of business, conferences and schools, regionally and nationally. His presentation style puts everyone at ease and gets people participating and playing together. 

Mike has been facilitating full-time since 2007; training has included an intensive training program conducted by Arthur Hull, a master drum facilitator. He graduated from the University of Utah in Communications and is a graduate of the Management Development for Entrepreneurs Program at UCLA. He and his wife Peta live in Salt Lake City with their two sons.        

Nels Anderson 

Nels has been facilitating drumming events since 2009 with Rhythms of Life. 

Eversince he first heard Johnny Cash's "Folsom Prison Blues" many years ago, he has been hooked on the simplistic power of music.

He sees the power of drumming play out on the groups he works with and on himself. “I love to see the walls of inhibition come crumbling down. Not only do I love to see it in others, but in myself. It brings out abilities in me I never thought possible."

He loves his job, even on the days he is tired: “As soon as the drumming begins, and after, I feel so grateful for the experience." Nels has noticed how easily people bond and get along after drumming together--children and adults.

Nels also works with children in the YMCA’s before and after-school programs as a program leader. His interests are diverse, ranging from bird watching and guitar playing to studying beetles and devouring pod-casts. "I love to feed my brain."

Nels graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in biology.




 
 
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