T.R. McKotch
Renowned local instructor/musician of 25+ years
Tommy is a top-shelf drum educator and performer, who studied with me for 16 years. Tommy started to apprentice teaching under me at age 13, going into public schools teaching West African-style hand drumming to classes of kids. He's extremely well-versed in many styles of drumming and drum education. Tommy would be my first choice for drum and percussion lessons!
Shelby Snow
Current student, owner of Echo Music
I've had an amazing experience taking lessons with Tommy for the past 8 years. He's very dedicated to his students, and he always caters the lessons towards the student's goals and aspirations. When I had an audition to get into college, Tommy made himself available to help me prepare. I have seen a tremendous improvement in my drumming. I highly recommend Tommy for drum lessons.
Jennifer Trusso
Parent of current student (Leo)
My son (Leo) had always wanted to play drums and started taking lessons with Tommy in September of 2022. He is always looking forward to every lesson with excitement! The learning is fun for Leo but Tommy is always challenging him and keeping him engaged. Tommy is an amazing drummer and a great instructor!
Testimonials
Kristen McNitt
Parent of current student (Sammy)
Sammy started taking drum lessons at 5 years old and continues to at age 9. Tommy has been able to hold his enthusiasm about drumming. He has given Sammy great confidence to practice on his own at home. I've seen Sammy's ability to focus grow longer with each class. Sammy had only been drumming for 8 months and was able to play small amounts of rhythm at just 6 years old!
Cindy Bracken
Former Student
I came to Tommy for drum lessons when I was in my 70’s. Can you imagine the patience and kindness which it took for him to work with such as I? To a fault, he was as nice, tolerant, and encouraging as anyone could be, and of course, very talented. How I looked forward to my afternoons with him and what fun we had as I endeavored to learn to play along with modern songs of which I’d never heard. Tommy would come up with a list of songs which he felt I could master and enjoy, and then I’d pick my favorites. He is the best!
Jen Daniels
Parent of Former Student
My 9 year old daughter LOVED taking drum lessons from Tommy. Not only does he make learning new skills engaging and fun, but he is also extremely gifted at making his students feel seen and valued. She walked away from each lesson with a new fundamental skill to practice, as well as with a confidence that she is capable and an eagerness to practice and grow. We are so thankful for our time at his studio!
Exciting Offers Happening Now!
Meet the Instructor,
Tommy Gerace
Ever since I sat down on my older brother's drum set when I was 5 years old, I've found a true love for drumming and music. 23 years later, my passion continues to grow, and through teaching, I want to share that same love with others.
I began teaching when I was 13, going into schools and facilitating hand drum circles. Since then, I've worked with hundreds of students, of all ages and skill levels, helping them progress to achieve their goals.
I excel in communication, being able to breakdown individual concepts and relay them in an understandable fashion. My classes are fun, relaxed, and engaging, for any age student. I love getting to know my students better and allow them to feel comfortable in my class. Simply put: I get the most out of my students' abilities, and make coming to drum lessons exciting.
Have even the slightest interest in drumming? Try me out with a free intro lesson. You won't regret it. Thanks everyone, I can't wait to see you behind the kit!
Tommy
Frequently Asked Questions
What is your availability?
My schedule varies, but I typically have two or three days of the week open for lessons. Most days, lessons do not begin until at least 3:00pm, but this can vary from day-to-day and student-to-student. I'll work to find a day and time that fits for you after your registration.
How much do you charge for lessons?
The first lesson is completely free. After that, the charge is $20.00 per class for a 30-minute private lesson, or $40.00 per class for a 60-minute private lesson. This can be paid weekly either before or on the day of the lesson, or in advance in larger increments, usually $80.00 for the next 4 lessons. I only accept cash payments, which includes Venmo. If a student fails to complete a payment before their scheduled lesson begins, no lesson will be given until payment is received.
What is your cancelation/make-up policy?
I do not offer make-up lessons. They're simply too difficult to handle and re-schedule. Instead, if either myself or the student has to cancel a class, any amount paid in advance will be credited to the next lesson. You don't ever pay for a class that doesn't happen, period.
What is your refund policy?
No refunds will be given at any time. If a student ends lessons completely with payment still in advance, no refund will be issued.
What do I need to bring to my lesson?
Just yourself! If you have your own drum sticks, feel free to bring them along. We have plenty of extra sticks laying around if you happen to forget or not have any yourself. We are a drum school, after all.
Tommy Gerace performing in 2013