Please note that I am based in the metropolitan Detroit area and am currently only offering remote lessons due to the ongoing pandemic. However, if you prefer in-person lessons, we can still exchange contact information to arrange for sessions when it is safer to do so.
With 25 years of experience as a working musician, I have honed my skills in private drum instruction, studio work, and collaboration with a range of musicians in live and studio settings. I have been a member of distinguished Detroit bands, including Friends of the Family, Night Train, and The Mobius Loop, and have supported national acts like The Headhunters, Melvin Seals, Mofro, and Strange Folk. My recording experience spans several reputable Detroit studios, like Studio N Armada, Riff Lab Studios, Woodshed Studios, and The Disc. As of late, I have lent my talents to recording projects with The Nova Junction, Dan Lesnick, and Josh Ackerman; and am working on new material with the rock band Electric Temple.
Currently, I am looking to expand my roster with committed drum students of all ages. My own instruction under drummers Darryl Pierce and Donny Gruendler serves as invaluable experience that informs my teaching methods, alongside my personal use of tried-and-true techniques. I also have two full drum kits set up in my teaching/rehearsal space, providing students with an exceptional learning tool. If needed, references from both students and industry professionals can be provided upon request.
Interested musical styles:
Rock, Blues, Country, Folk, Jazz, Classical, Recommendations available
Service location:
Remotely
Service Reviews
4.7
27 reviews
Service as described
4.7
Communication
4.7
Punctuality
4.7
MW
Melissa W.
Michael is a consummate professional in all aspects. He exudes affability, is prompt in his replies, and possesses extensive expertise in his field. He effectively communicates his lessons and customizes them to address my unique requirements and stumbling blocks. I wholeheartedly endorse him for individuals of all age groups. 👍👍
April 7, 2023
AD
Andrew D.
My son's learning sessions with Michael are characterized by his immense patience and attentiveness. Michael is an expert in his field and our online sessions over Zoom are seamlessly interactive, almost as if he were right here in the room with us. He is approachable, amiable and always willing to respond to my son's inquiries. Our eagerness to continue our lessons with him runs high.
March 7, 2023
DT
Danielle T.
Michael is an incredible person with a delightful personality. My son, who is 8 years old, received excellent lessons from him. He was very compassionate, calm, and supportive, and he always had encouraging words for my son. I highly recommend Michael, given his sheer brilliance!! His "set-up" was also very, very remarkable. The drum kit was not only visible via cameras, but he also taught notes and music reading through them. Michael, thank you for being such an amazing instructor!
February 16, 2023
WR
William R.
For the past several months, my child has been taking drum lessons from MJT and thoroughly enjoys them. MJT is highly organized, and we have no trouble making the most of the virtual sessions. Additionally, MJT is remarkably patient and courteous, and their lessons strike an excellent balance between fundamental skills and keeping my child actively engaged. Overall, we are thrilled to have found MJT and highly recommend them.
November 4, 2022
JC
Jessica C.
Discovering Mr. Thompson as my drum instructor has been a genuine blessing. Despite beginning to learn the drums later in life, his instruction style makes me feel like a natural. He possesses an intuitive insight into the needs of his students regardless of their level. Each lesson is not only fun but also results in visible progress. I'm thoroughly enjoying the path towards mastering the drums. One love.
