Drum Lessons for all Ages

Westchester, Fairfield & Putnam Counties

Developing Talent and Passion

J.J. Clarke’s Drum School, located in Somers, New York, provides premier private drum lessons, performance opportunities and workshops to kids, teens & adults, who are looking for the opportunity to express and develop their drumming talent. Convenient location for students in Westchester, Putnam & Fairfield counties.  J.J.’s main goals are to develop musical drummers through ear training in a positive and fun environment and to support education in music.

Lessons for all ages

All lessons are customized to reflect the musical goals and interests of each student. J.J. believes every student is talented in their own way and it is her job to help express, nurture and develop that talent. Regardless of age or level, J.J. helps each student define, reach for, and achieve their musical goals and dreams, build confidence in themselves and their abilities, and develop into musical drummers.

In-person and Online Lessons are offered.

JJ Clarke

The Teacher

J.J. Clarke has many years of experience as a working drummer and educator. Whether performing or teaching, she is a great listener, she is observant, knowledgeable, prepared, professional, fun, and creative. She has a strong passion and love of music, drums and learning. J.J. helps her students define, reach for, and achieve their musical goals and dreams, build confidence in themselves and their abilities, and develop into musical drummers.

NYSSMA

All students of the Drum School are encouraged to participate in the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) festivals. In tandem with area school district teachers, J.J. will prepare students for NYSSMA by studying the rudiments, practicing sight reading and learning a graded solo from the NYSSMA Manual. NYSSMA is a vital part of New York State Schools. Their mission is to advocate for and improve music education across New York State by promoting and producing appropriate activities and programs for its membership and students in member school music programs.

Drum student holding NYSSMA Certificate

Workshops

The workshops offered through the Drum School are a great opportunity for players of all ages and levels to learn, drum and grow as well as build a sense of community among drummers.  Our programs include:

  • Double Drumming
  • Live Performance
  • Big Band Drumming
  • NYSSMA Preparation

An Evening of Drummers!

Evening of Drummers

Show them your skills!

Preparation is what it takes to make a great performance! The annual “Evening of Drummers” is an opportunity for each student of the Drum School to perform a piece of music of their choice in front of a live audience of friends, family and fellow drummers in a concert-like venue with lights and cameras. Past performance choices have included drum solos, rudiment demonstrations and songs (in styles such as Rock, Jazz, Blues and Funk). The “Evening of Drummers” is a great experience because it helps to build confidence and it creates a sense of community among the students. This event truly helps each student to become the best drummer they can be!

Reviews...

“JJ is a consummate professional. Her organized and strategic approach to teaching is a match for all students. Those just beginning, professionals searching for a more authentic sound, and everyone in between benefit from her teaching style.”
~ Seamus C.

“JJ is an amazing musician and a truly gifted teacher! During the past 3 1/2 years with JJ, our 3 boys continue to surprise us (and themselves) with the increasing complexity of drum beats and fills they’re able to tackle. They especially appreciate being able to choose their favorite songs to play.”
~James H.

“A huge highlight has been the opportunity to play in JJ’s annual Evening of Drummers. We’re always blown away by the student performances and seeing how far everyone has progressed over the past year.”
~ Carrie C.