If you're looking for drum lessons, check out my YouTube channel where you can see me in action in the studio and watch videos of my students' performances. I make sure to teach in a fun and easy-to-understand way so that you can start playing right away. With my vast background in various music genres, I can cover levels from beginner to college preparations and help professional players hone their craft. My students are aged 9 and up.
Let's hop on a call and chat for free!
Credentials-wise, I have a Masters Degree in Jazz Performance, a BA in Jazz Studies, as well as a Harmony of Music Diploma and Counterpoint Diploma.
My name is Thanasi, and I'm an experienced drum instructor based in Los Angeles, CA. I love teaching and inspiring my students to become talented musicians. During my lessons, we focus on developing musicality, improvisation, creativity, groove, time, technique, and style. Once you've reached your desired level, I create customized lesson plans to help you achieve your goals.
I've also had the opportunity to collaborate with various producers and artists such as Nicolas Farmakalidis, Aris Archontis, aika (J-pop top 10), Marty Friedman (Megadeth), and Ayaka Hirahara. Some of my recordings include the Warner Brothers’ movie “Ironclad” (Paul Giamatti, Brian Cox) and music for Disney movies such as “Teen Beach Movie” (2013) and “Teen Beach Movie 2” (2015).
I've studied with renowned drum instructors and educators like Frank Donaldson (Bill Withers), Dana Hall (Ray Charles), and Tom Hipskind (Kick The Cat) at Columbia College in Chicago, where I specialized in Jazz Studies. Then, I graduated with a Masters Degree in Jazz Performance at N.I.U. under the mentorship of Rodrigo Villanueva (Eddie Gomez Trio).
Onstage, I've performed with Alexia (Chick Corea, 25 gold and platinum albums), Laura Rizzotto, Shahkar Bineshpajooh, and shared the stage with legends such as Stevie Wonder and Chaka Khan. Some notable projects include the recordings of Ayaka Hirahara’s single “Boy I Wish You Were Here,” Laura Rizzotto’s single “Love It” for The World Cup 2014 in Brazil and Hiroaki Tagawa's single "Sky" for the 2021 Olympics in Japan.
Thanks for your time!
Interested musical styles:
Rock, Blues, Country, Folk, Jazz, Classical, Recommendations available
Service location:
Remotely
Service Reviews
4.9
23 reviews
Service as described
4.9
Communication
4.9
Punctuality
4.9
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Brittany R.
Since relocating to Los Angeles, I've been keen on taking up drumming lessons. Six years down the line, I summoned the courage to pursue it and boy, am I ecstatic I did! Just when I thought finding a great tutor would be an uphill task, Thanasi, a skilled and compassionate drum instructor, was the first to impress. The studio's ambience is spot-on, while the availability of parking seals the deal for me. Although I had some prior knowledge of music from playing other instruments, Thanasi's ability to cater to diverse skill sets piqued my interest. I look forward to rocking on for several months to come!🥁
February 19, 2023
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Amber T.
An exemplary musician with years of experience, Thanasi displays a deep commitment towards sharing his knowledge and facilitating growth among others in the field. He willingly extends his teaching time whenever necessary and never fails to arrive at work with a smile, a valuable attribute in today's world. Personally, I admire Thanasi's teaching methodology and firmly believe that we need more teachers like him, not only in music, but in all disciplines. Thank you, maestro!
February 8, 2023
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Nicole H.
Since October, my 7-year-old son has been taking drum lessons from Thannasi, and I have nothing but positive things to say about him. Thannasi is highly responsive and communicative, always punctual, and incredibly patient. Despite my son's tendency to be easily distracted and do his own thing, Thannasi has managed to keep him on track and provide him with the necessary building blocks to become a talented drummer. I highly recommend Thannasi as a teacher, and it's worth noting that he is also an outstanding drummer who frequently astounds us with his skills.
August 21, 2022
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Courtney N.
Working with Thanasi is a wonderful experience, as his boundless enthusiasm never fails to impress me. With his patient and encouraging attitude, he makes each lesson enjoyable and engaging, especially for someone like me who is just starting out. Thanks to his expert guidance, I've already made significant progress in a short time and eagerly anticipate continuing my learning journey with him.
June 6, 2022
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Brandon H.
A few weeks ago, I commenced drum lessons with Thanasi and I couldn't be more delighted with my decision. Already, I've mastered some impressive drum beats and even engaged in some spontaneous music sessions! Thanasi's techniques are effortless and our sessions are consistently enjoyable! I wholeheartedly endorse Thanasi as a masterful drum instructor if you're searching for one!
