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If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
About
I am a multi-instrumentalist, which gives me a different perspective with regards to how each instrument functions in the context of a song or a band. I also customize every lesson to fit the needs of each student. I feel that this creates a learning environment that inspires a disciplined practice routine.
In addition to my love for music, I enjoy the opportunity to share ideas and concepts that pertain to music, but can be applied to every facet of life.
Overview
Hired 26 times
Serves Long Beach, CA
Background checked
24 years in business
Business hours
This pro hasn't listed their business hours.
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Apple Pay, Cash, Check, PayPal, Venmo, and Zelle.
Services offered
Interested musical styles
Drum type
Traditional drum kit
Snare drum
Bass drum
Hand drums
Work location
My customers travel to me
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for responsiveness, professionalism, and punctuality.
Exceptional 5.0
27 reviews
5
96%
4
4%
3
0%
2
0%
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Read reviews that mention:
Sam L.
Aug 4, 2025
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Damien is the man! I've been learning the drums from him for over a year and he's an incredible teacher. He is great at just about every instrument you can think of, I highly recommend Damien to anyone looking to learn an instrument at any skill level.
Details: 26 - 44 years old • No formal training; some self-taught experience • Understands note durations and rests • Traditional drum kit • What the teacher recommends • Rock • No, but the student is planning to purchase drums and would like the teacher's advice on it • 45 minutes • At the pro’s location
Drum Lessons
Phillip S.
Sep 16, 2015
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Damien is truly a wonderful music instructor! He is very knowledgeable in music and I'm so glad I was able take drumlessons from Damien!!
Drum Lessons (for adults)
Melissa B.
Aug 1, 2024
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Hired on Thumbtack
Damien is very knowledgeable in music theory and techniques with various instruments. We have just started lessons together and look forward to learning how to play the bass guitar.
Details: 45 - 64 years old • No formal training • No, the student cannot read music • Rock • Blues • Jazz • What the teacher recommends • Yes, the student has an instrument • 60 minutes • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Bass Guitar Lessons
Ye X.
Feb 2, 2016
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Very good teacher he will teach you from the music theory, not only make
You understand how to play guitar and know how to understand music, how music is make, what you learn from him is not going to limit you at the class, but also give You a guidance how you can do research on music by yourself after class. He can provide very academic course for you.
Guitar Lessons
Sara W.
Jan 24, 2023
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Damien is an excellent teacher. I took classical piano lessons for 11 years, but didn’t know how to play by ear. Within two lessons I’ve already started to pick things up. Damien is personable, professional and extremely knowledgeable. He has a knack for making seemingly complex (or even impossible) concepts easy to understand. Highly recommend!
Details: 45 - 64 years old • Yes, the student can read music • 4+ yrs of formal training • Jazz • Yes, the student has a keyboard • 45 minutes • Remotely (phone or internet)
Piano Lessons
Credentials
Background Check
Damien Smith
FAQs
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am always trying to expand my pallet. I am keenly aware that there is always someone out there who plays better than I do, so I am still taking lessons from great musicians. I also try to find new and challenging situations either in the recording studio or live performances.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
I have been playing music since childhood and can not imagine a more fulfilling profession.
What types of customers have you worked with?
I take examples of songs that my students love and transcribe them. As I do this, I explain all of the theory that is required in order to play that song (scales, chords, rudiments, reading, beats, etc.).
