With over fifteen years of experience teaching drums to students of all ages, Nick Balkun is a drum instructor, producer, and performer based in Connecticut. In 2016, he was recognized for his skills as a percussionist with the Top Percussionist in Connecticut Award from the Percussive Arts Society of America.
As a teacher, Nick is known for his charisma and ability to help his students grow through music and education. He provides each student with a unique practice routine that helps them excel quickly and efficiently in any style of music they play.
Nick is also an accomplished musician who performs live and records in the studio with several internationally touring bands, including Balkun Brothers, Legalized, and Death Bear. He brings a high level of professionalism and attention to detail to all facets of his work, from his drum lessons to music production lessons to live band concerts.
Nick specializes in teaching all styles of music, and his lessons are based on rudiments, technique, and musical expression. He has studied with notable drummers such as Mike Mangini, Tony Royster Jr., and Chad Smith, and has worked with the University of Connecticut marching band.
When he's not teaching, Nick tours the world with his award-winning rock n' roll band, Balkun Brothers. The band has shared the stage with acts like Johnny Winter and Gary Clark Jr., and has been featured on major festival line-ups alongside The Rolling Stones and Linkin Park.
Interested musical styles:
Rock, Blues, Country, Folk, Jazz, Classical, Recommendations available
Service location:
Remotely
Service Reviews
5.0
9 reviews
Service as described
5.0
Communication
5.0
Punctuality
5.0
JT
Justin T.
Nick is an exceptional individual with a versatile set of skills. He exhibits remarkable levels of patience, intellect, and meticulousness in his approach to teaching the drums. Every drill or activity he assigns is tailored to enhance your strengths and cater to your current skill level.
Speaking as an educator myself, Nick excels at teaching and is a highly recommended instructor. If you commit to putting in the necessary time and effort, and remain patient with yourself, the experience of learning to play the drums under his tutelage will be both rewarding and gratifying.
Without a doubt, I give Nick five stars across the board. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 11, 2022
ER
Elizabeth R.
As a lifelong drummer with formal training in my younger years, my skill set posed a challenge to identify. However, Nick invested time in comprehending my requirements to promptly enhance my fundamentals. Consequently, I could derive significant and efficient benefits from his coaching technique.
I had the pleasure of observing Nick execute a professional gig as an accomplished drummer. His performance was exceptional!
If you aspire to obtain drumming training from an amiable, accommodating, and chilled out professional drummer, Nick is your go-to individual! His services have exceeded my expectations, and I am making impressive progress under his guidance. Without a doubt, Nick designs tailor-made drumming lessons that cater to your specific needs - a definite win-win situation. Thanks, Nick!
September 17, 2022
SC
Sarah C.
Although I have only had a single session with Nick, I must express my admiration for him as he is an excellent instructor! With the knowledge I've acquired thus far, I have intentions of enrolling in further classes with him. Upon expressing my goals to him, Nick promptly produced a lesson plan that catered to my particular requirements, while also introducing me to new techniques and concepts that will prove beneficial in the future. If one is considering Nick as their teacher, I highly urge you to do it immediately!
July 31, 2022
LW
Lauren W.
My session with Nick was fantastic. He arrived with a wealth of materials and demonstrated clear expertise in his field. I'm already sensing positive progress. I'm eager to continue our lessons going forward.
February 16, 2022
SN
Sarah N.
My first drum lesson with Nick Balkun was amazing! Despite being a 51-year-old with no experience playing an instrument or reading music, Nick was very patient and taught me the fundamental basics. He gave me a few manageable beats to practice daily and shared some of his skills and musical knowledge with me during our session. Nick is a relaxed yet professional instructor who exudes both talent and expertise. I'm eagerly anticipating my next lesson and wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone wishing to learn the drums!
