it's called playing drums –
not working or stressing drums.

When you sign up for drum lessons the goal is to get you playing as quickly as possible. Using the traditional approach of learning hand technique first, as well as bass drum independence, it pairs discipline with fun. Most students are able to play along to some of their favorite songs within the first few sessions. For the beginner all the way to the advanced student, there are traditional lessons in addition to exercises and patterns I’ve learned from decades of taking and teaching lessons.  With almost thirty years of teaching experience I now have several students who are successful touring and recording musicians as well as several who are educators and mentors. Much of what students are reminded of, and why I feel like they enjoy it so much, is that there is no perfection in drums and it's called playing drums – not working or stressing drums. 

Lessons take place at our new location in Victoria Court, downtown Santa Barbara. Online lessons are available for students who are not local or who are unable to come to in-person lessons. There are three private, sound proof lesson rooms and a main stage area where lessons take place.

Tech and gear requirements for online lessons:

Students must have a drum set, music stand, Zoom account and preferably a computer instead of a tablet
or phone. Beginners please purchase the book A Funky Primer.

Zoom settings for best audio:

On zoom, in the lower left hand corner there is a microphone icon. Next to it is an up arrow – click that and select Audio Settings. Once in audio settings, disable “automatically adjust microphone volume.” The box should be empty and not have a green check mark. In the lower right hand corner click the Advanced button. In Audio Processing, disable “Suppress Persistent Background Noise” and disable “Suppress Intermittent Background Noise.” 

Lesson pricing and payment methods:

Lessons are $160.00 for 4 half hour lessons. Lessons are $320.00 for 4 hour long lessons. Payment is to be made at the beginning of the session and once enrolled, payments will be due on the first of the month. Monthly invoices can be paid with credit card, venmo or PayPal. First month will be pro-rated to reflect actual start date. Invoices will be emailed at the end of every month – due upon receipt. New month’s lessons will not resume until payment has been made in full. Payment can be submitted via venmo (@George-Pendergast), PayPal (rockshopacademy@gmail.com) or by credit card (linked on invoice, or visit student portal).

Lesson and cancelation policy:

Lessons are paid at the beginning of the month, for the month. Any missed lessons can be rescheduled within a 3 month period for excused absences. Excused absences are for any emergency or illness, any school or national holiday. Cancelations must be made with a 24 hour notice.  If George needs to cancel or reschedule a lesson (vacation, tour dates) he will reschedule lessons within the same quarter or adjust the monthly fee to reflect any missed lessons if necessary.