Find your rhythm

In-Person Drum Lessons in Thurmont, MD

One-on-one, beginner-friendly lessons for ages 8 and up, just 25 minutes North of Frederick, MD. Also offering beginner piano and guitar lessons. Ask about availability when you book your free lesson.
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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. 

  • 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 guitar.
  • 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 the same room as the lesson.
Get Started In-Person

What do we cover in Drum Lessons?

The core of my teaching approach is built around learning to play along to songs, plain and simple. To help us achieve that goal we will…

  1. Learn how to hold the sticks properly (without tension).
  2. Read different levels of sheet music.
  3. Play by ear without sheet music.
  4. Focus on technical exercises that have practical applications to playing real songs.
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Why Work with a Qualified Instructor?

Playing the drums can provide amazing benefits for your children. The drums can...
  • Improve overall confidence as the student is able to develop new skills
  • Help with sports and other activities by assisting with dexterity and coordination
  • Create a strong ability for mental focus and repetitive learning tasks
  • Give your kids something fun and enjoyable to look forward to
  • Provide an awesome social benefit by joining a band and being part of a team!
Having an in-person drum instructor will…
  • Provide real-time feedback on what’s working and what isn’t working
  • Save the student time and frustration by fixing issues right away before they become habits
  • Ensure learning is happening in a foundational format that allows the student to build on their knowledge each lesson
  • Provide accountability and responsibility to practice since I’ll be checking their practice progress each lesson
  • Be way more fun than learning on your own!

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.
Book your free lesson

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 and up—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!

What's holding you back?

We know that you might have some hold ups because the drums seem like loud, expensive musical instruments, but let us clear up some misconceptions

Problem: "Drums are expensive."
  • Solution: Drums are like cars or computers, there is a wide price range to choose from. If you want to purchase a new drum set, most entry level models from leading brand names are of quite good build quality. There is always the option of checking FB marketplace etc. I have found great deals on used equipment there.
Problem: "We are brand new to music lessons."
  • Solution: That is perfect for my studio. I teach clear fundamentals, choose songs your student enjoys, and send simple practice notes so they always know what to do next.
Problem: "Drums are loud."
  • Solution: Sure, they can be. If your drums are set up somewhere that they can be played full-volume, then enjoy! (Of course, with ear protection). If not, there are easy solutions to make them more quiet. Try mesh drum heads like"SoundOff" by Evans, or "SilentStroke" by Remo to drastically reduce the volume.
Problem: "My family isn't musical".
  • Solution: Not every kid that excels in music comes from a family or parents that do. The whole idea is to have a great time, make music together, and learn about drums and technique to make your child more well-rounded. They never have to be "the best" in order to reap the benefits of having drum lessons.
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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.”
Judy R.
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!
Co A.
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.
Sarah M.
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!
Debbie F.

We start with goals, then basics like stick grip and posture. I demonstrate on my kit, your student plays it back, and we record short clips for practice at home. You will always leave with a simple practice plan.

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.

TThey’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

Book a Free In-Studio Mini Session

Whether your beginner is energetic and active or reserved and thoughtful, the drums offer everyone who plays them the power of expression. Get to know me and my teaching style in a free 30-minute in-studio mini session and consultation. I’ll answer any questions you may have and get in a short jam session with your drummer.

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