Markus Helander is an independent, all-around drummer, born and raised in Finland. In 2001 he received a Masters degree in Music Education from one of Europe’s most prestigious music universities, the Sibelius Academy. For the past 25 years Markus has been actively working as a freelance drummer as well as an instructor/teacher in drums and rock band. Markus has also worked as the main percussionist for seven productions at the National Swedish Theater in Helsinki. Over the years he has played at countless shows and festivals (fusion, jazz, pop, rock) and has toured with various groups and artists in the USA and Europe.

Currently Markus lives in Charleston, SC, where he is becoming an increasingly recognized and sought after drummer. He makes frequent trips to Europe to give workshops and to play with various bands and artists.

Markus has been the arranger and producer for several recordings as well as the drummer on dozens of albums.  Most recently he has been focusing his time and energy on recording his second solo album with original music. The CD "Kinzy's Dream", featuring musicians from Charleston, Sweden and Finland, was released in the spring of 2016. Feel free to check out his solo albums on iTunes, Spotify or ReverbNation (please find link below).

Markus has been particularly inspired by a variety of artists such as: Jeff Porcaro, Dave Weckl, Vinnie Colaiuta, Dennis Chambers, Markus Ketola, Andy Megna, Aaron Spears, Will Kennedy, Steve Gadd, Tony Williams and Buddy Rich, just to name a few. Richard Bona, Victor Wooten, James Taylor, Bo Kaspers Orkester, Sting, T.O.P., Chick Corea, Michel Camilo and Yellowjackets have also been influential in Markus’ evolution as a drummer.

http://www.youtube.com/user/helandermarkus

https://www.reverbnation.com/markushelandermusician