Drum and Percussion Lessons in Austin, TX
Our Approach to Drum Lessons at Northwest School of Music
We fully acknowledge that each aspiring drummer is a unique individual. While it is true that everyone must begin in the same place, where you go from there is completely up to you. The flexible style of our instructors will foster your musical creativity, offering wisdom, and guiding your technique to levels of excellence. While creative expression is strongly encouraged, we incorporate certain features across the board for all our students, especially in the beginning phases of instruction.
Our Approach to Drum Lessons
Get StartedDrum Lessons Should Be Fun!
Few things in life are more satisfying than sitting down at a set of drums and playing your heart out. Students will find this unbridled joy in drum lessons at Northwest School of Music, as fun is the centerpiece of our teaching philosophy. We want our students to LOVE that feeling, whether it’s their first or five-hundredth time on the throne (and yes, it’s really called that!).
Whether your interest in the drums is currently an individual pursuit or you’re already part of a band or ensemble, Northwest School of Music passionate instructors are ready to help you progress quickly toward your goals while having fun doing it!
We Emphasize Healthy Technique
Students at Northwest School of Music can count on well-rounded instruction, rooted in proper technique. Working with a professional instructor, you will begin to master the fundamentals of drumming: a strong sense of pulse, how to control touch and tone, well-rounded drum vocabulary, ergonomic drum set configuration, good posture, healthy wrist action, four-limb independence, and efficient sticking patterns.
We strive to ensure that all of our drum students have a rich and varied lesson experience and become literate musicians. Students will be immersed in essential elements of music theory including rhythm and notation, and will gain exposure to the rich history of percussion.
We Care About Your Musical Interests
Our teachers pride themselves on helping you discover new ways of connecting with the instrument while also working on music you know and love. The world of drumming is wide and deep – but through our tailored instruction, we help you reach your goals, whatever they may be.
Are you a member of a jazz ensemble? We’ll focus on swinging, dynamics, chart reading, and how to “kick” the band. Is your band hoping to be the next big country/rock/pop act? We’ll focus on playing with power, steady grooving, and bread-and-butter fills. Perhaps you desire to be a virtuosic drummer who can move in and out of all sorts of styles? We’ll help you identify the similarities and differences between them and navigate the precise skills needed for each.
Our Piano Teachers:
Paul Pinon
Drums
Paul was born and raised in El Paso, moved to Austin to pursue a career in music and earned a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance from The University of Texas at Austin. Paul studied performance and composition with fantastic educators Wayne Salzmann II, John Fremgen, John Mills, Tony Edward…
Damon Martinez
Drums & Percussion
Damon Martinez began playing the drums when he was 11 years old. He started by hosting jam sessions at his home and jamming with his friends to cover songs by popular rock/pop artists. Soon, he began writing music with various bands that he and his friends formed and performed with at school events, birthday parties…
Rob Schumacher
Drums
Rob Schumacher is a professional drummer with more than 20 years of experience. As a young child he has always had an interest for drumming and rhythm. His music education began in middle school performing in the 7th and 8th grade concert band…
We Offer Simple Pricing to Fit Your Schedule & Budget
Weekly Lessons
30 min
$150
per month
30 minute lessons are great for building a strong foundation.
GET STARTEDWeekly Lessons
45 min
$215
per month
Fit for both beginners & intermediate students who need more than 30 minutes.
GET STARTEDWeekly Lessons
60 min
$280
per month
Longer lessons, perfect for motivated, intermediate or advanced musicians.
GET STARTED
Paul Pinon
Drum
Paul was born and raised in El Paso, moved to Austin to pursue a career in music and earned a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance from The University of Texas at…
Damon Martinez
Drums & Percussion
Damon Martinez began playing the drums when he was 11 years old. He started by hosting jam sessions at his home and jamming with his friends to cover songs by popular rock/pop…
What you can expect
Tell us about your musical goals.
Match with one of our expert instructors.
Play music! Parents get progress reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get StartedWhat Is the Minimum Age to Start Drum Lessons at Northwest School of Music?
We welcome students of all skill levels to take drum lessons at Northwest School of Music. While we create a positive and inspiring environment for all drum players, the minimum age we recommend a student start percussion lessons is 7. The term drum lessons can be very subjective as playing drums can mean anything from hand drums to a full drum set. Any students younger than 6 should focus on a hand drum or practice pad to learn rhythm and build up coordination.
Physical development is important since drum players must have dexterity, control, and motor skills as they learn rhythms and hold and maneuver the drum sticks. Drum students must also know how to count and have an adequate attention span for lessons and practice sessions.
We welcome you to contact us and discuss your child’s needs, interests and goals as you decide if your child is ready for drum lessons.
Do I Need to Own a Drum Set?
You do not have to purchase a drum kit to take lessons. Beginning students can learn with a drum pad, stand and sticks. Students use our drum set at their lessons and do not have to bring anything except their drum sticks and a notebook.
Do I Need Any Prior Drumming Experience?
Players of all skill levels benefit from drum lessons at Northwest School of Music. You do not need any prior experience with drums or percussion.
You may learn faster if you have previous exposure to percussion, understand rhythm, and can read music, but our teachers create customized lessons that allow you to learn foundational skills, develop advanced techniques and discover the joys of drumming.
What Styles of Drumming Can I Learn?
Our drum instructors teach rock, metal, jazz, funk, blues and many other styles. Drum language can be complex and our drum teachers will create a plan designed to improve your speed and comfort.
What books will I need?
Every drum student has different needs and interests, and your instructor will customize a curriculum just for you. You’ll receive a personalized list of books to buy after your first lesson.
Are Drums the Right Instrument for Me?
We often think of drummers as people who like to pound on things. But drumming requires concentration, technical knowledge, physical stamina, and creativity.
Listen to a variety of music styles and identify the percussion parts, or meet with a drum specialist at Northwest School of Music as you decide if this instrument is a good fit for you. We are happy to help!
Why Choose Northwest School of Music for Drum Lessons?
If you’re ready to express your musical talents, skills, and creativity on the drums, we’re here for you. Northwest School of Music personalizes lessons to your unique needs, and our experienced, passionate, and skilled instructors create an engaging environment that promotes learning and fun.
With our student-centered approach, you gain a balanced education that helps you develop excellent musicianship and prepare to achieve your future goals.
Ready to Begin Drumming?
Contact Northwest School of Music today to begin your customized drum lessons. We prioritize your needs whether you want to hone your natural rhythm, land a spot in the marching band, or prepare to perform on stage.
Discover how our balanced approach gives you the foundation and skills you need for success.
