Private Drum & Percussion Lessons with Tim Ward

MORE INFO

Tim Ward brings over 30 years of drumming and percussion experience to his teaching, blending performance, recording, and education expertise. His diverse background includes College Orchestra, Jazz Band, pit orchestras, and performances with acclaimed punk rock bands like The Jimmies, sharing the stage with acts such as The Misfits and Marky Ramone.

Currently performing in the two-piece band Grand Head, Tim’s recording credits span over 13 albums, showcasing his skill across blues, country, rock, and Cuban rhythms, which he studied under Israel Annoh.

Tim’s teaching philosophy emphasizes a two-fold approach: mastering rhythmic notation and internalizing rhythms within the body. This holistic method empowers students to not only play but truly feel the music. His focus on foundational drumming ensures that students can transfer skills from simple exercises to complex drum set performances with confidence and precision.

Whether you’re just starting or refining your craft, Tim’s supportive, step-by-step guidance will help you unlock your full potential as a drummer and percussionist.

• Our goal is to teach you to play the music that you want to learn- teaching all styles and genres of music: rock, pop, metal, jazz, and more!

• All our teachers are working professional musicians who are passionate about teaching music - focused on helping you reach your musical goals

Music Education FAQs

What makes your group classes different than a conventional music lesson program?

When you enroll in a Group Class with us, you will have a weekly 1-on-1 lesson on your instrument of choice- in addition, the weekly group rehearsal involves music exercises, learning group songs, correct band equipment set-up/break-down, and so much more! Our classes culminate in an opportunity to perform with your group for your family and friends. This means students enjoy the best of all learning scenarios- private learning, along with learning is a group.

What does my skill level need to be to join Rivercity Rock Star Academy?

Zero experience is needed! We have different programs suitable for first time beginners to advanced musicians. We get everyone playing a real song right away.

Do I need to know how to read sheet music?

No, it's not required, but always helpful. We will teach you what you will need to know based on your skill level and experience.

Can I play multiple instruments at the school?

You'll have the opportunity to play multiple instruments and/or sing if you're interested. We encourage all of our students to play multiple instruments and sing. Our coveted Five Star Award goes to a student who plays 5 or more different instruments or sings in one show!

Do I need to have my own instrument(s)?

No! We have instruments at the studio for you to use. If you have your own instrument, you are welcome to bring it.

Am I too young/old for the program?

We have music education programs for kids, teens, and adults! Private lessons are open to all ages. Check out our Classes page for group learning options by age range.

How does billing work?

Private Lessons- Monthly

One-on-one private lessons are billed on a monthly cycle. The first monthly payment is due before the start of your first lesson. You can enroll for lessons and make your first payment on our website through an individual teachers private lesson page, filling out the required fields, and going through checkout. Registration for lessons through our website will automatically enroll you in an automatically paid subscription, which is billed every 30 days.

If you run into any issues during the registration process, or need to pay by cash or check, please call or send us an email and we can make other arrangements for you.

We offer family discounts for multiple students registered for lessons. Please call or email us to see what discounts your family is eligible for!

Programs- Monthly or Seasonally

Our program & class billing is based on a 10-week or 12-week season rehearsal schedule for Fall, Winter, and Spring; Our 2025 Summer programs will be 8 weeks. Once you have registered for a class or program, your first payment will be completed. Monthly billing is scheduled every 30 days until the class is paid in full.

If you are unable to pay the full balance before the season begins, a $50.00 deposit is required to hold your spot. Our billing team can send you an invoice for the deposit and this would be deducted from the first payment of your billing. Cash and Check payments can also be accepted. Just give us a call or send an email if you'd like to set this up.

Camps/Workshops

Camps and Workshops will be paid in full upon online registration. If you'd like to hold your spot in a camp or workshop and cannot pay the full balance, we can invoice you for a $50.00 deposit that will be deducted from your balance, which will be due before the camp or workshop begins. For Summer Camps, before and after care is available, which is billed at an hourly rate. This time will be billed separately and we can send you an invoice based on your family's needs. Please send an email or give us a call and we can offer more details about this option.

Do you offer scholarships?

RiverCity participates in the Salem Music Initiative program that provides scholarships and tuition assistance to qualified students for lessons, music classes, camps, and workshops. To find out more, please schedule a visit or contact us.

RiverCity Rock Star Academy offers group music classes for all ages, as well as a comprehensive private lesson program.

Have a different question? contact us!

Tim Ward Drum Lessons

Tim uses an approach to teaching drums that is different from other drum teachers I have studied under. Tim want you to not only focus on rudiments and reading drum tab, but also wants you to internalize the beat and feel the rhythm so that you are not relying on the tab. This speeds up the process of finding your groove and really learning what drumming is all about, feeling the groove and laying down the beat. I find this is important because it helps me understand the main job of a drummer, that is to hold the group together and provide timing throughout the entire song and even more the entire performance. Tim stresses that it is difficult to find a good drummer, and brings home the main job is to hold down the beat and be in the pocket, the fancy fills will come later as the rudiments improve and I become more comfortable on the kit. Unlike other drum teachers I have had, Tim has me focus on one thing at a time to master that one thing before moving on. This works for me very well, as it allows me the time to focus on one thing at a time and hone in on my practice, rather than floundering around trying to figure out what to practice. Tim also takes the time to discuss the different aspects of a drummer and takes the time to know you as a person, which I really enjoy, as it creates a personal bond. That is important to me. I have waited several months to get an opening with Tim and very happy, i was patient and Tim had an opening. I am extremely happy, and feel fortunate that I am studying under Tim.

Tim is incredibly talented and knowledgeable. He makes it easy to learn and be okay making mistakes. There‚Äôs a lot of laughter and not taking ourselves too seriously. Highly recommend!