Please contact me about the rates. Thank you!
Drum Lessons in Amsterdam for all ages and levels
Hello! I'm Aurel, a professional French drummer in Amsterdam Noord. Whether you're looking for drum lessons for your child, just getting behind the drums for the first time or preparing for a tour with your band, discovering new grooves and beats, and developing your improvisation skills, I'd love to help you take your drumming to the next level.
Drumming is cool!
My passion for drums began as a child in a small, remote village in the French countryside. Since then, I've further developped my musical path in Paris, Brussels, and Philadelphia (USA), finally ending up in Amsterdam. There, I earned my bachelor's and master's degrees in jazz drums at the conservatory and collaborated with musicians from all over the world.
What can you expect?
I have an open and flexible approach and I also expect commitment, concentration, and regular practice from you. Drumming is a work out, so let's go!
Trial Drum Lesson in Amsterdam Noord
A trial lesson is the perfect way to get to know each other, explore your goals and of course I'd love to hear you play! I'll may have some tips for you to take out of the studio! You'll get an impression of my teaching style and you'll be seated behind a professional drum kit during the lesson. I'm happy to advise you on drum gear and can help you find a suitable set (acoustic or electronic) if you don't already have one.
Lesson Location
My studio is located in NDSM, in the colorful and vibrant artist community Treehouse. It's an inspiring place where music, art, and creativity converge.
Music Lessons Made for You!
Depending on your profile, I might demonstrate the exercises and let you film me for reference, or use drum methods if you are more analytical. I use books such as Stick Control, Syncopation, A Fresh Approach to the Drumset, The Art of Bop Drumming, and more.
During lessons, we'll work on all essential aspects of drumming:
- technique (speed, control, dynamics)
- relaxed posture and gestures
- coordination and rudiments
- various music styles
- reading drum notation
- time keeping
- groove, fills
- improvisation, solos
What kind of music do you want to drum?
There are really a huge number of genres you can drum in, and there is so much awesome music! I am curious what you want to do with your drumming! I have played in various rock, pop, and folk bands, and I am completely at home in those styles. Some of my influences are John Bonham (Led Zeppelin), Dave Grohl (Nirvana), and Mitch Mitchell (Jimi Hendrix).
Jazz drumming is my passion
In addition, my heart lies with Jazz. I have been actively and intensively involved with jazz for years, and I studied with Martijn Vink, Yoran Vroom, Reinier Baas, and Joris Roelofs, among others. Jazz is the music I currently perform regularly in various combinations.
My Heroes?
Too many to name, but definitely Roy Haynes, Bill Stewart, and Marcus Gilmore. You can listen to my work through my trio (Aurel Violas Trio – A Dancing Mind), or my band Chai Masters (debut album Magic Realism). Available on all streaming platforms.
Extras I offer
- Indian rhythmic techniques (Konnakol and complex subdivisions ), learned with Rafael Reina at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam.
- Free drum transcriptions upon student request
- Personal guidance via email or WhatsApp during the week for all your drum or music questions.
- Advice on hardware or cymbals — including feedback on second-hand listings.
About Me
I've performed in France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, and Poland, at venues such as Bimhuis (Amsterdam), Sunside (Paris), Hot Club Ghent, and at festivals like Explore the North and Intl Jazz Platform. In addition, I regularly participate in recordings of various bands.
