About Marla Leigh

Composer, educator, producer, and teacher Marla Leigh is a Los Angeles–based artist whose work bridges ancient rhythmic traditions with contemporary soundscapes. As founder and CEO of Frame Drum Academy, she’s created immersive online programs that empower drummers at every level to explore healing, creative expression, and community through the frame drum. Marla composes for ensembles, film, and multimedia—infusing each score with inspiration drawn from Middle Eastern and Indian musical lineages. Her debut studio album, Rhythms of Tof Miriam, showcases this unique fusion; her second full-length album, Rhythms of Illumination, is slated for release in 2026. An in-demand session musician and collaborator, Marla brings warmth, precision, and a spirit of discovery to every project. Specializing in the frame drum—yet equally fluent on a variety of percussion instruments and flute—she delivers musical integrity whether crafting custom compositions, performing professional sessions, or guiding one-on-one instruction. Connect with Marla Leigh to add a transformative rhythmic dimension to your next creative endeavor. Connect with Marla Leigh: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6kPYaJfH3iURws1HR5KV0v Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marlaleighmusic Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marlaleighmusic Bandcamp (Tof Miriam Album): https://marlaleigh.bandcamp.com/album/rhythms-of-tof-miriam YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MarlaLeigh

Work experience

Marla's Skills

Engineering
  • Sound Designer
Musician
  • Artist
  • Instrumentalist
  • Performer
  • Studio Musician
  • Touring Musician

Marla's Genres

  • World

Marla's Experience

As a composer, I’ve crafted original frame-drum scores for my online courses, film projects, and ensembles—translating ancient rhythmic patterns into fresh, modern soundscapes. As an educator, I designed every module of Frame Drum Academy to guide students step-by-step, integrating video lessons with live Q&As and personalized feedback so learners truly internalize each rhythm. Wearing my producer hat, I’ve overseen the recording, mixing, and release of Rhythms of Tof Miriam (and soon Rhythms of Illumination), ensuring high-quality audio and engaging visual content. As a teacher, I lead one-on-one coaching sessions, troubleshoot technique, and cultivate a supportive community where drummers at all levels can flourish. Finally, as a session musician, I bring warmth and precision to studios and stages—adding percussive color and flute melodies to collaborators’ recordings and live performances.