Flexi Lessons
Pay-As-You-Go Bookings
If your schedule doesn’t allow for Weekly Lessons, then book in single lessons, as and when you like.
Perfect for students who want lessons on their own terms. Great for casual learners, busy adults, working musicians, or people wanting to try things out before committing.
*Single lessons slots are very limited, so if you can commit to weekly lessons, sign up for the Studio Academy, that way your slot is guaranteed.
Choose your teacher and time slot below
John Vooght (Senior Teacher & Founder)
Levels: All
With over 30 years of playing experience and 20 years of teaching, John is the founder and driving force behind the Academy. His teaching is rooted in deep musical knowledge, patience, and a passion for helping students unlock their potential.
John specialises in all styles - from rock and soul to jazz, funk, and musical theatre - and places a strong focus on sound, technique, and musicality. A seasoned performer, he's played with a well-known UK rock band across England and the U.S., and brings real-world insight to every lesson.
He's guided many students to Trinity College London Grade 8 Distinction and is a specialist in sight reading and theory. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced player, you'll benefit from John's wealth of experience and commitment to your progress.
Tris Murray
Levels: All
With over 30 years of playing experience and more than a decade of teaching under his belt, Tristan began his teaching journey right here at the academy.
Specialising in rock, metal, double bass drumming, and a wide range of contemporary styles, he brings a high-energy, fun approach to every lesson. Tristan is known for his cheerful, encouraging personality and has a great connection with younger students. A seasoned performer, he’s played in numerous rock, pop, and metal bands over the years.
Tristan’s focus is on musical enjoyment, performance, and helping students discover their love for the drums. He’s also studied with some of the world’s top drummers.
Matt Payne
Levels: All
Matt has been playing drums for over a decade and began his teaching career at the academy five years ago.
He specialises in contemporary styles and is particularly focused on helping students develop a strong sound and confident playing. Known for his friendly and encouraging personality, Matt enjoys challenging students to reach their next level.
He brings a wealth of live experience, regularly performing with a variety of function bands. With solid musical knowledge and a strong grasp of theory, Matt is not only an excellent player but also a dependable and engaging teacher within the academy.
Ross Gardner
Levels: Beginner/Intermediate
Ross has been drumming from a young age and developed his skills over many years as a student here, at Drummers Academy of Music. He recently graduated with a First-Class Honours degree in Drum Performance from BIMM London, following a Distinction Star in his Performance Diploma.
During his studies, he was mentored by top industry professionals, including Giuseppe Grondona (Tormentor, Pink) and Femi Temowo (Amy Winehouse, The Roots).
Ross is a versatile player with performance experience spanning Rock, Pop, Indie, Jazz, and World Music. He brings a calm, patient approach to teaching and has been sharing his passion with students for the past few years. Friendly and creative, Ross is a developing teacher with strong academic foundations and a deep connection to the academy where he began his own drumming journey.
All grades covered from Initial-Grade 8,
Learn Songs From of All Styles and Eras
Testimonials
"My son is thriving at Drummers Academy of Music in Letchworth. He has been attending weekly lessons for a few years since being an absolute beginner and has sailed through the grades with the guidance of the professional drumming teachers. I will continue to recommend this venue for all ages and abilities."
Suzie Godfrey
"My son has been attending Drummers Academy for a few years now and enjoys his lessons and practice. The team have adapted to his needs, been kind and understanding, pushed and encouraged and made the whole process fun. He looks forward to lessons and for him drumming plays an important part of his life, more than learning an instrument. The team are terrific, talented, friendly and I would recommend them to anyone."
Steve Andrews
"My son has been attending lessons here for the last few weeks as a complete beginner. He absolutely loves it and his teacher has been brilliant. We’ve been really impressed with the progress he’s made already. He looks forward to the lessons each week. Highly recommend."
Sam Cooke
"These guys teach my son drums, they are totally professional but create enjoyment from music which has led to us continuing for a number of years. They are the best"
Jim Gardner
"Both my son & I have been taking lessons with John & Tristan over the years.. They are both very knowledgable & make learning drums more fun than it already is! Studios & facilities are exceptional too. Worth every penny!"
Thulsi Crosina
"My lessons are one of the highlights of the week! My teacher is awesome (Ive some one-offs with other teachers here and they've been great too). I'm an adult, and a music fan, trying to get serious on this great instrument. This has been the perfect place, I've learned loads and enjoyed it so much."
James Stevenson
"My son has been learning to play the drums for several years now. I also joined with him (I practice but no longer have lessons) and highly recommend the studio. Tris gets a special mention for his dedication and passion to helping others learn. Good to also see the studio expand their offering with supplementary online lessons, studio sessions, workshops etc."
Rakesh Patel
"I highly recommend Drummers Academy of Music. The teachers are all really patient and make learning the drums fun. The studios are really well equipped and having the opportunity to record a track so you can see your progress is great."
Kristy Barber
"My son is loving his drumming lessons. Very professionally run drumming school. Thanks guys."
Sarah Winters
"Fantastic, John and all his tutors are the best, couldn't recommend more highly."
Richard Evans
"My son has recently started coming to weekly lessons with Matt. He absolutely loves it.
I've been very impressed so far and can already see my son's progress in a few weeks. Highly recommend. Thank you!"
Louise Cooke