Drums & Percussion Lessons in Tucson, AZ
Our Approach to Drums & Percussion Lessons
At the Music & Dance Academy, our drum instruction combines solid technical training with creative exploration, helping students develop coordination, musicality, and confidence behind the kit. We welcome learners of all ages and experience levels—from young beginners learning stick grip and basic rhythms to more advanced players working on complex grooves, improvisation, or ensemble playing.
Our faculty features experienced drummers with backgrounds in a wide range of styles, including rock, jazz, funk, pop, Latin, and concert percussion. Lessons are personalized to match each student’s learning style and goals. Students build a strong foundation in rhythm reading, technique, coordination, timing, and dynamic control, while also exploring musical expression, stylistic versatility, and performance skills.
Whether you’re picking up sticks for the first time or a more experienced percussionist, our encouraging and focused environment helps students progress at their own pace. From foundational beats to advanced fills, we empower students to become confident, expressive musicians.
Our Approach to Drums & Percussion Lessons
GET STARTEDDrums & Percussion 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 Music & Dance Academy, 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, Music & Dance Academy’s passionate instructors are ready to help you progress quickly toward your goals while having fun doing it!
We Emphasize Healthy Technique
Students at Music & Dance Academy 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.
How it works
Tell us about your musical goals.
Match with one of our expert instructors.
Play music! Parents get progress reports.
Start Your Music Lessons with Excellent Prices!
Frequently
Asked
Questions
GET STARTED
What is the minimum age to start drum lessons at The Music & Dance Academy?
We welcome students of all skill levels to take drum lessons at The Music & Dance Academy. While we create a positive and inspiring environment for all drum players, we’ve found that children generally do better if they’re older than 4 and physically and mentally ready to begin drum lessons.
Physical development is important since drum players must have dexterity, control, and motor skills as they learn rhythms and hold and maneuver the drumsticks. 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 any prior experience?
Players of all skill levels benefit from drum lessons at The Music & Dance Academy. 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 drums can I learn?
Our faculty features experienced drummers who offer versatile instruction in a wide range of styles, including rock, jazz, funk, pop, Latin, and concert percussion.
Tell us what you want to play, and we match you with an instructor who can help you achieve your goals. We can also grow with you as your skills improve or your interests change.
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. Your instructor can also recommend drum sets, stools, and other equipment, too.
Are drums the right fit for me?
Listen to a variety of music styles and identify the percussion parts or meet with a drum specialist at The Music & Dance Academy as you decide if this instrument is a good fit for you.
Why come to The Music & Dance Academy for drum lessons?
If you’re ready to express your musical talents, skills, and creativity on the drums, we’re here for you. Music & Dance Academy 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.