Michael Harwood (musician)

Michael Harwood is an American musician, composer, and educator primarily known for his work as a percussionist and ethnomusicologist. He specializes in world music traditions, with a particular focus on West African drumming and its diasporic connections. Harwood has performed and recorded extensively in a variety of musical genres, including traditional African music, jazz, and contemporary classical music.

His work often involves exploring the social and cultural contexts of music, and he frequently incorporates research and scholarship into his performances and teaching. Harwood holds advanced degrees in music and ethnomusicology and has taught at various universities and colleges. He is also a sought-after clinician, conducting workshops and masterclasses on percussion techniques and world music traditions. His contributions to the field extend to research on the cultural significance of drumming and music in various communities.