Lessons

My teaching philosophy

My name is Julian Drumwright; I'm a drummer and drum teacher based in Washington, DC. I went professional at the age of 17, and I've preformed with Grammy-winning artists such as Danilo Pérez and Luis Perdomo. In 2023 I was one of just twenty students to receive a full-tuition scholarship to attend the prestigious Master of Music in Global Jazz program at Berklee College of Music. Now I've made it my mission to bring the quality education I experienced at Berklee to the comfort of your home!

I often joke that teaching is in my blood since both of my parents are teachers, and while most of my education has been focused on performance, I take my role as an educator every bit as seriously. I know how my life has been transformed by the influence of great teachers, such as Billy Kilson, Joe Lovano, and Danilo Pérez, and I know how a good teacher can be the difference between someone giving up after a few weeks or staying with it, discovering a lifelong love for music.

I believe music has the power to transform each of us. My job as a teacher is to guide you on your journey with the drums so that you can know the joy of making music and be changed by the experience!

No two students share the same goals, experiences, or interests, so I believe that all material should be tailored to each individual student. I've taught everyone from total beginners to near professionals in jazz, rock, pop, R&B, Brazilian music, Afro-Cuban music, and more. What you're passionate about is what we will work on!

If you're interested in drum lessons and are in Washington, DC or anywhere in the DMV, please fill out the form or call the number below for more information and to schedule a free consultation.

Hear what my students say

"Before I started lessons with Julian, I had absolutely no experience with drums—I had never even touched a drum kit. But in a few months, I’ve gone from a complete beginner to being able to play a couple of full songs, and more importantly, I’ve completely fallen in love with drumming!

Julian is an incredible teacher—patient, encouraging, and really great at explaining things in a way that makes sense. He knows exactly how to challenge you just enough to keep things exciting without it ever feeling overwhelming. Every lesson feels like progress, and he’s made learning the drums something I genuinely look forward to each week.

If you’re thinking about learning drums, I can’t recommend Julian enough!"

- Andres

"Julian is great at understanding what interests you when it comes to music, and approaching teaching from that angle. Learning drums with him, I feel like I not only understand the drums better, but that I have also been able to start developing my own sound and voice through the instrument. It was a great time learning with him, and I likely would not have performed in front of people without his encouragement. I’m so glad I did!"

- Dylan

"Julian was my first drum instructor and I cannot imagine anyone better to start my drums journey with. He has an incredible knowledge of all things drums that he is enthusiastically willing to share. His teaching style is intuitive and adaptive, with a keen sense for knowing what needs to be worked on and where he can challenge you. My lessons with Julian not only helped me create a solid foundation as a drum player but broadened my appreciation for music—especially jazz."

- Marisa

"I’ve been learning drums with Julian for exactly a year, and it has been one of the most valuable experiences of my life. As an adult with no musical background, I never thought I could play an instrument. The phrase 'it’s never too late to start' always sounded like a beautiful lie, but with Julian’s guidance this dream became a reality. His patient and personalized teaching style has helped me overcome challenges and make more progress than I ever imagined. I even found the courage to perform on stage. I wholeheartedly recommend Julian to anyone who wants to learn drums. No matter your starting point, he will help you grow and truly enjoy the journey!"

- Zuno

Lesson packages

Lessons are scheduled in packages of four or five weekly lessons, depending on the month.

45-minute lessons

$340–$425 per month of weekly drum lessons ($85 per lesson).

60-minute lessons (best value)

$400–$500 per month of weekly drum lessons ($100 per lesson).

$220–$330 per month of biweekly drum lessons ($110 per lesson).

60-minute lessons (biweekly)

To inquire about lessons and schedule a free consultation, please fill out this form or call or text me at (240) 475-5873.

Individual 60-minute lesson

$120 per lesson.

All styles, all levels. Ages 10 and up.