Regardless of which drum course you are on, you will cover an exciting range of technical, stylistic and live performance studies. In addition to developing their individual skills by industry drum tuition specialists, students are constantly encouraged to think about their role as a drummer in the context of an ensemble. It is not enough to be technically proficient; drummers must learn the art of putting their skills into context. It is this knowledge that turns a drummer into a musician that is highly employable, and not just one that fits into the stereotype of a lot of bad jokes! There is also a wide range of extra curricular workshops and masterclasses featuring some of the biggest names in the drumming world to complement and amplify what you study.

To take advantage of the many opportunities available at ACM Guildford on our drum courses students need to take their learning and career as seriously as we do. In addition to all of those long practice hours, students should network and make it their business to find out who and what is happening at ACM. All of the drum tutors on our full time and part time drum courses have an immense skill set and a genuine passion for teaching, and are willing to act as mentors whenever possible in the daunting landscape of the professional musician. On top of their teaching, the tutors can often complement the amazing work of our Business and Artist Development Centre to find work for students in areas of performance and education where suitable – this relationship often extends beyond a student’s time at school.

From a personal standpoint, I have been extremely fortunate to study music at a university and go on from there into a professional career in music, both of which have provided me with experiences that have been priceless. It is a privilege to give back to students some of what has been given to me in an environment as well run as ACM. We are absolutely committed to making your experience here, on whichever drum course you attend, one that is valuable, memorable and enjoyable on every level.

Mike Sturgis - Drum School Manager and Head of Faculty

ACM runs a number of extra curricular events and activities for students on full time vocals courses, guitar courses, bass guitar courses, drums courses, music production courses and music business courses.