Drums
Leaside Music School began as a drum school in 1965, and drumming is still at its heart. Learn rock, jazz, funk and fusion from working drummers who have toured, recorded and taught for decades.
Free
First trial lesson
1-on-1
Private format
30 / 45 / 60
Minute options
Since 1965
Teaching music
5 stars on Google
Trusted by hundreds of students
Teaching since 1965
60+ years in the neighbourhood
RCM exam prep
Certified professional teachers
Voted #1 by NOW Magazine
Best music school in the GTA for private lessons
In the summer of 1965, drummer-percussionist Paul Robson opened a small drum school in Toronto, and it grew into the Leaside Music School. The drumset was the original focus, and it has remained a strength ever since. Read more about the school's history.
Every drummer's program is built around their goals, but lessons commonly cover:
Our drum rooms are sound treated, with full kits provided, so lessons run at real playing volume. You do not need a kit to begin; a practice pad is enough for the first weeks. The school also rents entry-level and upgraded drum sets, and an electronic kit is a good choice if noise is a concern at home. See our post on learning drums in a Toronto condo.
Robin Boers is best known for his work with the Ugly Ducklings, has been drumming since the sixties and has taught at the school since 1980. He is regarded as one of Toronto's most knowledgeable rock, jazz and fusion teachers. Jay Burak, a Humber Jazz graduate who studied with Paul Robson, joined the school in 1994 and is also its general manager. Tim Stokes-Rees has been drumming for over 30 years and plays pop, classic rock and modern rock, and has played jazz trio as well.
Students range from children starting as young as four to adults and working players. Many of Robin's students have gone on to teach drumming or become accomplished rock and jazz drummers. Whatever your level, you start with a free trial lesson.
Faculty
Working drummers with decades of stage, studio and teaching experience.
Lessons and rates
Lessons are $40 for 30 minutes, $55 for 45 minutes and $70 for 60 minutes, billed in four-lesson cycles. There are no registration or administration fees, and music lessons are not subject to tax. Your first lesson is a free trial.
See all pricesFAQ
Have another? Reach out and we'll happily answer before you commit to anything.
Ask a questionNo. A practice pad and sticks are enough to begin, and many students add an electronic kit within a few months. The school also rents drum sets.
We welcome students as young as four for beginner drums. Younger students often start with 30-minute lessons.
Start with solid fundamentals: grip, time and coordination. Style follows your taste, and many students enjoy both. Your teacher will point lessons toward the music you want to play.
Our drum rooms are sound treated, so lessons are comfortable at real playing volume.
Lessons are $40 for 30 minutes, $55 for 45 minutes and $70 for 60 minutes, billed in four-lesson cycles. There are no registration or administration fees, and music lessons are not subject to tax. Your first lesson is a free trial.
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Tell us the student's age, any experience and what you would like to learn, and we'll match you with the right teacher.
