There is something magnetic about the drums. It’s the heartbeat of the song, the physical rush of a well-timed fill, and the foundation upon which all great music is built. Regardless if you’re looking to blow off some steam after work, help your child develop coordination, or fine-tune your technique for a professional recital, the right guidance makes all the difference.
At SAM Academy, we don’t just teach you how to hit things—we teach you how to make music. Our drum and percussion program is designed to turn raw energy into refined skill. Whether you’re picking up drumsticks for the first time or preparing for an upcoming recital or live performance, SAM Academy offers structured, supportive instruction for beginner, intermediate, and advanced drummers.
What Exactly Are "Drums"?
Before you pick up the sticks, it’s worth understanding what you’re actually playing. At its core, a drum is a percussion instrument that creates sound through the vibration of a stretched membrane (the drumhead).
Drums are among the oldest musical instruments in the world. They serve two primary purposes: keeping time and providing texture. While other instruments handle melody and harmony, the drum kit is the “engine room” of the band.
The Different Types of Drums
The world of percussion is vast, and at SAM Academy, we help you navigate its many forms. Here are the main categories you’ll encounter:
- Acoustic Drum Kits: The classic setup you see in rock and jazz bands. This includes the bass drum, snare drum, hi-hats, and various toms and cymbals.
- Electronic Drums (E-Kits): Perfect for modern production and quiet practice. These use pads to trigger digital sounds, offering an endless library of tones.
- Hand Percussion: Instruments like congas, bongos, and djembes that rely on hand technique rather than sticks.
- Orchestral Percussion: This includes the timpani, concert snare, and mallet instruments like the marimba or xylophone.
Drum Lessons for All Skill Levels
SAM Academy proudly offers weekly drum lessons tailored to each student’s experience level. Lessons are 30 minutes long, held once per week, and cost $35 per lesson, making high-quality music education accessible to the community.
Lessons are available Monday through Friday between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Because lesson times fill quickly, we encourage interested students to call us directly for availability.
We welcome:
- Beginners with no prior drumming experience
- Intermediate students looking to improve timing, coordination, and style
- Advanced drummers refining technique or preparing for performances
- Experienced musicians who want to sharpen their skills before a recital, audition, or live show
All individuals interested in learning drums are encouraged to apply.
Learn from Experienced Drum Instructors
Each instructor brings professional experience and a passion for teaching, ensuring that students receive personalized guidance and high-quality instruction in a supportive learning environment.
Ian De la Torre
Advanced and Intermediate Instructor
Matt Rivera
Beginning Instructor
Nestor Cerda
Beginning Instructor
Enroll in Drum Lessons Today
Whether you are a beginner discovering the joy of drumming or an experienced musician preparing for your next performance, SAM Academy’s Drum Lessons Program is here to support your musical journey. Call us today for availability and take the next step toward mastering rhythm and becoming a confident, skilled drummer.