Drum Program

Frequently Asked Questions

Thank you for your interest in our Drum Program at Airdrie Music Lessons!

Our Drum Program is designed to help students develop strong musical foundations while learning the skills needed to play a wide variety of musical styles.

The AML Drum Program combines traditional drum instruction with modern playing techniques, helping students become well-rounded musicians who can confidently perform, create, and collaborate with other musicians.

Through technique, rhythm development, performance opportunities, and teamwork, students grow as musicians while building confidence and important life skills.

Below are answers to some of the most common questions about our Drum Program.

1. What Can Drum Students Expect?

The AML Drum Program uses a holistic approach, combining traditional drum education with modern drum and percussion skills.

Students develop skills in:

• Reading music
• Drum rudiments
• Proper technique
• Rhythm and timing
• Playing by ear
• Contemporary music styles
• Creative expression
• Playing with other musicians

At Airdrie Music Lessons, students build a strong musical foundation that allows them to play in a variety of styles and situations.

Rather than simply learning individual songs, students develop a rhythmic vocabulary that allows them to understand how music works and apply their skills creatively across many different songs and genres.

2. How Long Are the Lessons?

Classes are 60 minutes each week, providing students with twice the instructional time of traditional 30-minute lessons.

The longer class format allows students more time to develop technique, practice new skills, work on songs, receive feedback, and build confidence as musicians.

3. How Much Does the Program Cost?

Most students enrol for the full academic year (September through June).

• Annual Tuition: $1,525
• Monthly Payment Plan: 10 convenient payments of $149 per month
• Tuition is processed through our secure pre-authorized monthly payment system.

4. Can I Enrol During the School Year?

Yes!

While most students enrol at the beginning of the academic year to secure their spot, we welcome new students throughout the year whenever space is available.

If a class is full, students can join our waiting list, and additional classes are created as enough students are ready to form a new group.

5. Do You Only Offer Group Lessons?

No!

AML offers both small group lessons and private lessons.

However, experience has shown that many students learn faster and enjoy the process more in a small group environment.

Learning alongside other musicians helps students develop:

• Confidence
• Teamwork
• Motivation
• Accountability
• Healthy friendships
• A positive sense of belonging

This learning format can be especially beneficial for students who experience shyness or anxiety, as it provides a supportive environment where they can grow at their own pace.

6. Should I Choose Group or Private Lessons?

Most students thrive in our small group classes.

Private lessons may be recommended for students who:

• Have specific learning needs
• Require a customized approach

Our team will help guide families toward the best option for each student.

7. How Many Students and Teachers Are in Each Class?

Drum classes are intentionally kept small, typically with 5–8 students.

Classes generally have two teachers, allowing students to benefit from both the group dynamic and individual feedback when needed.

Our teachers are highly experienced and knowledgeable, bringing a wide range of musical and teaching strategies to help students overcome challenges and continue progressing.

AML also has dedicated support staff who allow teachers to focus on curriculum, students, and families.

8. Do AML Students Learn Faster Than in Traditional Lessons?

Yes!

The AML program is based on years of classroom experience and draws from effective approaches in music education, psychology, and learning science.

Students benefit from:

• Longer weekly classes
• Small group instruction
• Hands-on learning
• Practice accountability
• Supportive teachers
• Positive peer relationships

Students often practice more because they are connected to their classmates and motivated by their goals. When students enjoy the process and feel part of a team, they learn more effectively.

9. Do AML Lessons Help Students Develop Other Strengths?

Absolutely.

Music is the vehicle we use to help students develop important life skills, including:

• Confidence
• Courage
• Focus
• Patience
• Perseverance
• Listening skills
• Teamwork
• Creativity
• Social skills

Connecting with others who share an interest in music has helped many AML students grow in ways we could not have imagined.

At AML, we believe we are developing more than musicians—we are helping students become confident, capable individuals.

10. What Is the Game Room?

The Game Room is open during class hours.

Our downtown studio is also used for special events, including teen movie nights, Professional Development Day programs, summer camps, and staff team-building activities.

Many students have developed friendships through Airdrie Music Lessons that extend beyond their music lessons.

11. Will Students Have Opportunities to Perform?

Yes!

Performance is an important part of every student’s musical journey.

Our Grand Student Concerts are held in January and June. These special events are designed for the whole family and include door prizes, refreshments, and a celebration of our students’ accomplishments.

Concerts give students meaningful goals to work toward and the experience of performing in front of a real audience. These opportunities help build confidence, self-esteem, and stage presence.

Students also perform throughout the year in mini recitals and community performances, including coffee houses, charity events, and other local opportunities.

12. Are Learning Materials Included?

Yes!

Students receive a variety of learning materials, including:

• 3-ring binder
• Sheet music
• Goal sheets
• Practice charts
• Weekly practice videos

Students receive a private video link so they can review practice materials at home as often as they need.

Students will need:

• Drum sticks
• Practice pad

AML provides drum sticks for students for only $5.

As students progress, a drum kit for home practice will be recommended. Families can choose to rent or purchase a drum kit through music retailers such as Long & McQuade.

Many modern drum students choose electronic drum kits because they are convenient, portable, and allow students to practice using headphones without disturbing others.

13. Where Are Lessons Held?

All Drum classes are held at our Downtown Airdrie location.

Our downtown school is home to many of our programs, including:

• Acoustic Guitar
• Piano
• Singing
• Ukulele
• Fine Art
• Junior Music Explorers
• Drums
• Drama

We have created a welcoming learning environment where students can develop their musical skills while becoming part of the AML community.

14. Are There Opportunities to Grow at AML?

Yes!

The Drum Program is the beginning of a lifelong musical journey.

Once students have learned the drum fundamentals, they may continue to grow through:

• Higher levels of Drum
• Additional instruments
• Rock Band
• Songwriting opportunities

Students can also use their skills to write and record music at AML’s professional recording studio.

Airdrie Music Lessons also offers Piano, Singing, Guitar, Ukulele, Fine Art, Drama, and Rock Band programs from beginner to advanced levels.

Many students begin with one program and later add another area of interest as their confidence and skills grow.

AML also provides volunteer opportunities for students to learn about teaching, concert production, recording technology, and other areas of the music industry. Our Teacher Training Program has helped many students become successful Assistant Music Teachers.

We Would Love to Welcome You to AML!

Thank you for considering Airdrie Music Lessons for your musical journey.

If you have any questions or would like more information about our Drum Program or registration, please contact us.

We look forward to helping students discover the joy of making music, performing, and becoming confident musicians!