Find your rhythm

Online Drum Lessons

They were born to express themselves. From reading music to learning rudiments and everything in between—our one-on-one, online drum lessons will help your beginner drummer find their groove in no time.

DRUM LESSONS FOR BEGINNERS

Meet Your Instructor

Hi, I’m John— a musician, teacher, author, and band leader. After graduating from the Peabody Institute of The Johns Hopkins University in 2003, I served in the U.S. Air Force as a musician—playing in several groups including; big band, rock band, jazz combos, concert band and more. Believing the most teachable lessons are born out of continued experience and musicianship, I frequently perform across the Baltimore/DC area and throughout Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.

My specialty lies in teaching beginner students, aged 8-16—catering lessons to their musical goals and interests. Preferring a holistic teaching approach, I focus on injury-free technique, active listening, and experience in a variety of musical styles. I frequently remind my students that it’s called playing the drums—not working them.

Drumming should be fun!

Don’t skip a beat

Get to know me and my teaching style—and have any questions answered—in a free, mini session and consultation for you and your beginner drummer.

ONLINE VS. IN-PERSON

Drum Lessons

From Bon Jovi to The Beatles and The Jonas Brothers to The Black Crowes—our lessons are tailored to fit your beginner drummer’s musical goals and inspire their love for music.

Online Drum Lessons

All you need to get started with online drum lessons is a basic drum set, a computer and wifi. With a unique setup, my lessons will keep your beginner engaged and on the beat.

In-Person Drum Lessons

For those students in the Maryland area, I offer in-person drum lessons just 25 minutes outside of Frederick, MD—in Thurmont.

I use several instruments to play along with students to illustrate certain points and to get the experience of playing in a band: especially the piano, bass, and congas/shakers.
I’m a big fan of recording audio in our lesson for immediate feedback for the student.
Large, clean, well-lit environment with a sitting area for parents in same room as the lesson.

Face the Music

I’ve been fortunate to watch over 100 students fall in love with the drums over the last 6 years. Hear directly from them, including some of the questions they had along their musical journey.

My son has been taking lessons from John for over 2 1/2 years. He has been fantastic to work with - very professional while keeping things fun and interesting for him. John caters his lessons to work with my son on what he needs for band class as well as what he is interested in to keep things interesting and challenging.”

Our daughter has been taking drum lessons from John for a little over a year now. He is so talented, absolutely in love with his craft - you couldn’t find a more caring, encouraging, knowledgeable teacher! He is truly a gem. She has learned so much and gained so much confidence over this past year!

My son has really thrived since he started taking drum lessons with John. He has expressed more interest in playing and says that John makes learning fun. He also appreciates how detailed John is when explaining how to do something. John makes learning relevant, is flexible, and maintains open and pleasant communication between lessons.

Awesome drum instructor. Differentiates himself from the rest with his outstanding level of music theory and history. Always has tidbits and fun facts that he adds to my daughter's lesson that keeps her interest peaked. This combined with his incredible talent makes him the best instructor I’ve ever met!

How do online drum lessons work?

First, we’ll make sure you have the right internet speed for virtual lessons. There’s nothing worse than a freeze-frame right in the middle of a groove. I’ll ask you to position your computer so I can see the top of the student’s head and down to their hands. Meanwhile, I’ll provide multiple camera views to my set—allowing your beginner drummer to see me as I’m explaining a technique while also watching a close-up of my drumset so that he or she never skips a beat.

How much does a beginner drum set cost?

A beginner drum set shouldn’t break the bank. You can often find a used drum set on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. A basic drum set—including a bass drum, snare drum and hi-hat—should cost between $200-$300.

The drums are so loud. Is there any way to make them quieter?

They’re meant to be loud! But a passionate, new drummer can be especially loud. Absolutely. There are products you can purchase to soften how far your student’s jam session carries. Below are just a few of the products I recommend to parents:

LET’S MAKE SOME MUSIC

Free Mini Session & Consultation

Whether your beginner is energetic and active or reserved and thoughtful, the drums offer everyone who plays them the power of expression. To find out if online drum lessons are right for your student, register below for a free, 30-minute mini session and consult. I’ll answer any questions you may have and get in a short jam session with your drummer.