From DIY Underdog
to Industry Innovator

From DIY Underdog
to Industry Innovator

From DIY Underdog
to Industry Innovator

Mike Ciprari didn’t wait for permission—he built his own path.

From sneaking into the Vans Warped Tour to crafting a globally recognized brand, his journey began as a passion project in his grandmother’s basement. That hustle, grit, and DIY mentality became the foundation for one of the world’s most respected custom drum companies.

Mike’s break came when he connected with Green Day’s Tré Cool—and turned a handmade drum into a career-launching moment. It proved what Mike always believed: relationships, creativity, and relentless drive can take you anywhere.


The Rise of SJC Drums

Mike co-founded SJC Drums, a brand that transformed from a small family-run operation into a household name in the music industry.

Artists like Tré Cool (Green Day) and Josh Dun (Twenty One Pilots) helped propel SJC’s reputation, but it was Mike’s visionary leadership—through artist partnerships, innovative craftsmanship, and culture-first marketing—that made the brand iconic.

More than just drums, Mike built a movement. Long before it was mainstream, he leveraged early social media, grassroots community-building, and pop-up activations to turn fans into lifelong brand advocates.

A New Chapter - Loyal to the Craft

Mike’s latest venture, Loyal to the Craft (LTTC), is more than a brand—it’s a mission.

LTTC is a platform designed to educate, inspire, and empower the next generation of musicians, creatives, and entrepreneurs. Through webinars, in-person events, and exclusive content, it delivers real-world tools and insider strategies to help artists turn passion into purpose—and careers.

  • ""Loyal to the Craft" is based off the passion of the music and inner driver to be the best musician you can possibly be. Sitting down with the team and hearing the commitment to continuing the inspiration/education has been refreshing. I'm excited for what's to come from this project!”

    Dre Hemby

    Teddy Swims

  • "Mike Ciprari’s dedication to inspiring and motivating the next generation through the Loyal to the Craft Tour has left a lasting imprint on young musicians at School of Rock. His genuine passion, hands-on mentorship, and commitment to providing practical tools and meaningful resources have empowered countless kids to embrace their talents, pursue their dreams, and believe in their own potential—both on stage and in life."

    Stacey Ryan

    President, School of Rock

  • “Loyal to the Craft’s mission is completely parallel with my own personal experience of making music over the last 20 years. Its emphasis on maintaining an independent spirit throughout every aspect of the creative process is true to Mike Ciprari’s vision, and the vision of the artists who are a part of it.”

    Jay Weinberg

    Suicidal Tendencies

  • “Mike is one of the most inspiring, creative and real humans! He knows how to electrify a room and get everyone inspired! It’s been an honor working with him and seeing the impact it makes!“

    Frank Zummo

    Sum 41

  • ""Loyal to the Craft" is based off the passion of the music and inner driver to be the best musician you can possibly be. Sitting down with the team and hearing the commitment to continuing the inspiration/education has been refreshing. I'm excited for what's to come from this project!”

    Dre Hemby

    Teddy Swims

  • "Mike Ciprari’s dedication to inspiring and motivating the next generation through the Loyal to the Craft Tour has left a lasting imprint on young musicians at School of Rock. His genuine passion, hands-on mentorship, and commitment to providing practical tools and meaningful resources have empowered countless kids to embrace their talents, pursue their dreams, and believe in their own potential—both on stage and in life."

    Stacey Ryan

    President, School of Rock

  • “Loyal to the Craft’s mission is completely parallel with my own personal experience of making music over the last 20 years. Its emphasis on maintaining an independent spirit throughout every aspect of the creative process is true to Mike Ciprari’s vision, and the vision of the artists who are a part of it.”

    Jay Weinberg

    Suicidal Tendencies

  • “Mike is one of the most inspiring, creative and real humans! He knows how to electrify a room and get everyone inspired! It’s been an honor working with him and seeing the impact it makes!“

    Frank Zummo

    Sum 41

  • ""Loyal to the Craft" is based off the passion of the music and inner driver to be the best musician you can possibly be. Sitting down with the team and hearing the commitment to continuing the inspiration/education has been refreshing. I'm excited for what's to come from this project!”

    Dre Hemby

    Teddy Swims

  • "Mike Ciprari’s dedication to inspiring and motivating the next generation through the Loyal to the Craft Tour has left a lasting imprint on young musicians at School of Rock. His genuine passion, hands-on mentorship, and commitment to providing practical tools and meaningful resources have empowered countless kids to embrace their talents, pursue their dreams, and believe in their own potential—both on stage and in life."

    Stacey Ryan

    President, School of Rock

  • “Loyal to the Craft’s mission is completely parallel with my own personal experience of making music over the last 20 years. Its emphasis on maintaining an independent spirit throughout every aspect of the creative process is true to Mike Ciprari’s vision, and the vision of the artists who are a part of it.”

    Jay Weinberg

    Suicidal Tendencies

  • “Mike is one of the most inspiring, creative and real humans! He knows how to electrify a room and get everyone inspired! It’s been an honor working with him and seeing the impact it makes!“

    Frank Zummo

    Sum 41

Recognized Entrepreneur & In-Demand Speaker

Mike’s story has been featured in:

— Forbes

— Entrepreneur Magazine

— Modern Drummer

— Worcester Business Journal’s 40 Under 40

— National FedEx Small Business commercial

He’s collaborated with brands like Vans, Liquid Death, Topo Chico, Jack Daniels, Red Bull, and Hard Rock Casino, blending music, lifestyle, and marketing into a powerful storytelling engine.

He was even featured on Anthony Bourdain’s Raw Craft, showcasing his relentless commitment to craftsmanship.

Mentor. Educator. Advocate.

Mike is deeply committed to giving back.

He’s partnered with organizations like Make-A-Wish, School of Rock, Music Will, Find Your Grind, and Vans Gives a Band, mentoring the next generation of creatives through workshops, speaking engagements, and one-on-one guidance.

He’s delivered powerful talks at NAMM, Full Sail University, School of Rock, and more—sharing honest, hard-won insights on entrepreneurship, branding, and community-building.

Book Mike Ciprari for Your Next Event

Looking for a speaker who actually walks the talk?

Mike’s keynotes are high-energy, no-fluff sessions packed with real strategies, powerful stories, and actionable takeaways. Whether you’re a startup team, a creative community, or a corporate audience, Mike delivers transformative sessions on:

— DIY Marketing & Brand Building

— Community Growth Strategies

— The Entrepreneurial Mindset

— Turning Passion into Profit

Every audience leaves inspired—and equipped to take bold action.