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About
You are looking for an instructor who is knowledgeable, patient, easy to work with, and uplifting. Incorporating nearly 40 years of experience I work with a variety of clients helping them to enjoy playing nearly every genre of music.
I have studied extensively the physiology of the human body playing a musical instrument. I have earned a deep understanding of the physiology of playing drums (which can be also be applied to other instruments). Learning the physiology behind practicing/creating music will have a very positive effect on both your improvisation skills and your daily practice - you’ll leave a practice session looking forward to the next day’s practice!
Playing drums has been a huge passion of mine all my life, since I was 12. I’ve also been teaching professionally for 30 years, and I enjoy teaching others who have the same passion. It’s very rewarding to help them progress and learn to love the instrument.
Overview
Hired 67 times
Background checked
1 employee
17 years in business
Business hours
This pro hasn't listed their business hours.
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Cash, PayPal, Square cash app, Venmo, and Zelle.
Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.
2017
Services offered
Interested musical styles
Rock
Blues
Classical
Country
Drum type
Traditional drum kit
Snare drum
Bass drum
Work location
My customers travel to me
I work remotely (phone or internet)
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for professionalism, responsiveness, and work quality.
Excellent 4.9
27 reviews
5
96%
4
0%
3
0%
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1
4%
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Read reviews that mention:
Lorene B.
Feb 1, 2016
•
Hired on Thumbtack
I am amazed at Michael's approach: very kind, very tuned in with the child, original and creative! My son loves his drum classes with him and looks forward to it each week! Thank you SO much, Michael! :-)
Drum Lessons (for children or teenagers)
Kelly M.
Oct 19, 2021
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Mike has been real flexible with lesson times, which has helped me be able to take lessons. He is very knowledgeable about drums and music. I learn a lot every lesson, and he is really encouraging.
Details: 26 - 44 years old • No formal training • Can read sheet music • Traditional drum kit • Rock • Classical • No, but the student is planning to purchase drums and would like the teacher's advice on it • 30 minutes • At the pro’s location
Drum Lessons
Jill B.
Apr 12, 2016
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Hired on Thumbtack
Michael Leffler's drum teaching is great! My son is excited for his lesson every week and is inspired to practice. Michael has built my son's confidence in his playing in a short time. I highly recommend him.
Drum Lessons (for children or teenagers)
Lara M.
Dec 24, 2015
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Michael is an amazing teacher. Not only does he do a great job at explaining various techniques, but he also teaches the physicality of drumming, which has been very helpful for me. Within a few lessons I was reading music and playing actual songs. He's also really patient, and when I have a hard time grasping certain stuff he will turn it into an exercise. I've really enjoyed my time learning the drums with him!
Drum Lessons (for adults)
Robert B.
Nov 26, 2021
•
Hired on Thumbtack
An attentive and considerate instructor, Mike takes you on the journey of becoming a better drummer. He listens, sees, and hears how best to tailor lessons and studies for your growth. You won’t get a shallow “how to” with Mike. He truly understands the drums as a musical instrument. He imparts the wisdoms of his experience, and will help you learn to connect with the elements of percussion, ultimately finding the best possible drummer within you.
Details: 45 - 64 years old • No formal training; some self-taught experience • Can't read music • Traditional drum kit • Blues • Jazz • Rock • Classical • Country • Folk • What the teacher recommends • Yes, the student already has drums • 60 minutes • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc. • Remotely (phone or internet)
Drum Lessons
Credentials
Background Check
Michael Leffler
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I can generally offer better prices at my drum studio in Hollywood, where I have several drum kits and specialty pieces. However the majority of my clients ask me to come to their home, which I’m happy to do as well. In those situations, we can use the client’s drum set, or I can bring a portable drum set.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
It varies with the age of the students and the goals they have in regards to learning drums, but very early on I get them playing rhythms on the drum set. Creating that early success and excitement at coordinating musical drumming leads to better engagement. I also focus on technique, of course, and musical notation or specific genres of music depending on the student’s preferences.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
First, I practice and play the drums every single day. I have a Performance Degree from Musician's Institute, where I graduated with honors. I have been teaching students of all ages and playing in bands for over 28 years, on both the east and west coasts.
In addition to the drums, I also play piano and guitar. I have been accompanying my drum students on guitar or piano frequently as of late, which is good ensemble practice for the student and myself ;)
