Drum Instruction by Mike Killela

My son has been Mike’s student for a few months now and I can’t say enough about how happy he is to have him as an instructor. My son wanted to expand his capabilities as a drummer and also needed help reading music. Mike has a way of explaining things that makes everything seem so much easier. My son has improved a great deal in this area and feels much more confident playing in school or even just practicing at home. I also noticed pretty early on in the lessons that Mike is not a clock watcher. He doesn’t mind going over a few minutes during a lesson if it means my son will better understand something or play something a bit better. He answers questions and concerns promptly and always encourages feedback. If needed Mike also sends additional resources or instructional videos throughout the week to help with practice techniques. Overall, Mike’s genuine talent, passion and energy for his art is reflected in each lesson. My son truly enjoys his lesson each week.

I convinced Mike to take my 8 year old who was buggin about "never being as good as" this drummer we love. We started lessons a couple months ago and my boy is as committed to his drum lessons as he is breathing. Mike is super patient, attentive, understanding and did I mention patient? He's great with feedback and tells it like it is. If you're in the area, I would consider lessons from Mike regardless of your age or skill level.

Mike Killela has demonstrated time and time again a talent and a discipline that serves the various music genres he plays and the drumming instruction that he provides. As a bassist I can assure you how Mike not only knows how to create a pocket, but can teach others the mechanics and intricacies of it in an accessible way. He'll teach you metre in a side by side lesson that allows mimicry and growth as a musician. If you are looking to expand your drumming prowess, I can't imagine a better teacher to guide you and take you beyond your drumming imagination with professional instruction.

My son has taken drum lessons with Mike for 6 months and counting. We have seen tremendous growth in his skills in that time. Mike provides a positive atmosphere with efficient lessons. He has an amazing ear that can break down what is happening with each drum strike in comparison to the music on both on the snare and drum kit. He focuses on fundamentals to enable a strong base to build upon that allows for execution of fun and exciting songs. He provides patient constructive feedback that is easy to follow. Most importantly, Mike brings enthusiasm to the art that is contagious to the student.

Mike is a fantastic drum teacher anyone would be lucky to learn under. I’ve learned more in the last 2.5 months than I have the last year teaching myself. He’s very enthusiastic and encouraging, provides valuable feedback and makes you want to practice as much as possible to keep getting better. I’m 32 and Mike would work well with drummers of any age, as long as they have the drive to learn and get better. He makes each lesson fun and it’s something I look forward to every week.