Mikael Ringquist

Mikael Ringquist is an Associate Professor in the Percussion Department at Berklee College of Music, Massachusetts. He specializes in teaching hand percussion, Brazilian, Cuban, Indian, and African styles, emphasizing cross-disciplinary application of rhythmic concepts to non-percussionists. His career includes extensive international performances, recordings, and collaborations, such as the globally touring project The Passion of the Christ reimagined with Latin American rhythms. He actively involves students in professional tours, offering unique experiential learning opportunities.

Education: Bachelor of Music (BM) in Film Scoring from Berklee College of Music (1987).

Research interests focus on expanding percussive techniques and cultural music traditions, blending classical, jazz, and world music. He advocates for creativity beyond traditional contexts, encouraging students to apply rhythmic phrasing across disciplines like guitar comping or vocal performance.

Professional highlights include performances with the Calypso Hurricane, roles as a private instructor, and hand percussion coordinator. His teaching philosophy prioritizes personal mentorship, with close relationships in a specialized cohort of 20 hand percussion students.