Drum lessons.
Find the beat. Feel the music.
Build a beat that feels good, then make it your own. One-to-one drum lessons at Six String Studio in Stockton-on-Tees develop coordination, control and confidence through practical playing and music.
Enquire about drum lessons View pricesA steady foundation. Room to let loose.
We can start with a comfortable grip, controlled strokes and simple grooves. Break coordination down into manageable parts, then bring your hands and feet together at a tempo that feels achievable. The studio electronic drum kit provides a focused setting for developing those skills.
As you progress, explore fills, dynamics and the way drum parts follow a song. A fill is more useful when it lands confidently back in the groove. Listening and timing stay central, whether you are starting from scratch or refining patterns you already know.
Build coordination
Work on hands and feet separately when needed, then connect them into a steady, musical groove.
Control and feel
Develop consistent strokes, useful dynamics and the confidence to keep time without rushing.
Play the song
Use grooves and fills in context, listening for changes and learning how to support the music.
25+ years of playing. Your goals first.
Dave Rutherford brings more than 25 years of experience playing musical instruments, alongside a career on stage and in the studio. His background includes Musicians Institute in Hollywood, California, international performances and recording sessions in Los Angeles.
You do not need that experience to begin. Bring your curiosity, your favourite music and a willingness to try. Lessons combine practical skills with clear things to practice between sessions.
Meet Dave and explore his musical backgroundPlay for pleasure. Work towards a grade.
Graded drum-exam preparation is available if you would like a clear target. Talk to Dave about your starting level and an appropriate exam route, with technique and musical playing developed together.
Drum students can prepare for Rockschool and Trinity Rock & Pop graded exams. Turn your developing grooves, technique and musical awareness into a clear goal, without losing the fun of playing. Dave will help you choose a suitable syllabus and level. Confirm entry arrangements and any separate exam fees before booking.
Studio or screen: choose your lesson.
Studio tuition takes place in Stockton-on-Tees: £20 for 30 minutes or £40 for 60 minutes. A £15, 20-minute option is available for primary-school pupils under 10.
Live online lessons are delivered through Zoom or Microsoft Teams: 60 minutes only, £40, paid in advance. Agree availability and a suitable instrument, camera and sound setup with Dave first.
Ask about availability Explore the studioBefore your first lesson
Do I need a full drum kit to start?
Ask Dave about your practice options before buying equipment. A practice pad can support stick-control work, while developing full-kit coordination needs a suitable setup. Online lessons require an agreed kit, camera and audio arrangement.
What should I include in my enquiry?
Tell Dave your instrument, playing experience, musical interests and preferred days. For a child, include their age. Say whether you would prefer studio or online lessons and whether graded exams interest you.
Can I learn without taking exams?
Absolutely. Exams are optional. You can focus on favourite songs, developing confidence, playing with others or simply enjoying a new skill.
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