Testimonials

“I’m a self-taught drummer of 30+ years and in spring of 2020 after becoming extremely bored and frustrated with my playing I figured it was time to either a) take lessons and actually try to…

  • get past all my playing baggage, or b) just call it and sell all my gear, so I contacted Nate and made it his problem ;P.  Told him what I disliked about my playing, especially my lack of a proper practice approach, and how like many, I was tired of sifting through endless “lick” videos that show you how to do something but don’t give you enough of the context or confidence to actually use them.  Since starting lessons back in 2020 my confidence has grown well beyond my baggage and relentless self-criticism. Nate’s genuine interest in seeing me succeed along with showing me the path to get to where I wanted to go has ultimately given me the confidence to start 2 bands, one of which is a house band at my work, our second show was an event at an international conference in Sweden to a couple hundred people, that was a dream that was so distant and yet it came true J, I put 100% of the credit on Nate for that, without the teaching and validation I get from him on my playing there is honestly no way that show or any of the others I have played would have happened. It only takes a quick glance at his career accomplishments to realize he knows what he is talking about. So If you are a drummer that is looking to take your playing to the next level, and need honest, interactive and immediate feedback from an accomplished working professional who is also a really great person, book some lessons with Nate and find out for yourself why those of us that already do, think he is THE guy!”


    Russ B., Saskatchewan, Canada

    Beam Dump


"With a good drum instructor you will notice a difference in your playing. With a great drum instructor your band will notice a difference in your timing, note placements, and feel.


  • I have been learning from Nate Morton for 5 years and have gained a wealth of understanding of my instrument that I didn't realize I was lacking. My band thought I was a good drummer. Now they think I am gooder. I knew of Nate from his Mozambique video back in 2006ish and ate it up!  When I saw a chance to take lessons with him I Jumped on it.  You should too!  I have covered many aspects of things I thought I knew, but Nate helped me go back to 8th grade, learn the correct form and it morphed into my current playing."


    Mike Brady, Atlanta, GA

    Yesterday Calling


"I’ve been taking online drum lessons with Nate for several years, and I can confidently say that he has been an invaluable resource in my musical journey.

  • Nate’s wealth of knowledge has been a game changer for me. Even as someone with years of drumming experience myself, I continue to learn and grow under his guidance. Nate has been instrumental in helping me refine my fundamentals and technique, focusing on ergonomics to ensure I play more efficiently and comfortably. He’s introduced me to a variety of different drumming styles and genres, expanding my musical versatility. His approach to teaching practical application has also helped me quickly learn new material, which has been incredibly useful. Beyond the technical aspects, Nate has also helped me expand my creativity, allowing me to approach drumming in new ways. I truly feel that Nate has helped me become a better musician, and I’m excited for all that I will continue to learn from him in the future. His lessons are always engaging, insightful, and tailored to my personal goals, making him an outstanding instructor."


    Jon Cohen, Kansas City, KS

    Freelance drummer

    The Reaction

    Into The Gray


"I have taken lessons before and I always felt I was missing something. I had read an article about Nate and his work on the Voice on Modern Drummer Magazine back in 2014…

  • and always thought it would be awesome if I could take a lesson with the guy. The article portrayed a drummer that loved playing drums and playing songs instead of a drummer showcasing chops or solos I didn’t know what do to do with. I wanted to learn from someone that love drumming and played songs I wanted to play, but living in Seattle I thought it was never going to happen so maybe a local clinic one of these days…


    When Nate decided to offer remote private lessons I jumped at the opportunity. I have been taking lessons with Nate for almost 4 years and counting. I always wanted to learn how to play the drums to play cover songs for my entertainment, nothing more nothing less. My playing and fluidity at the drum set has increased leaps and bounds. Nate has opened my mind to learning things about drumming I thought I didn’t need to play covers. I look forward to my lessons as I continue to learn but more importantly I continue to have fun while doing it."


    Jorge Duran, Seattle, WA


"Nate was able to break down advanced concepts that took me years to understand!  The amount of experiences that Nate has to offer about the music industry is just invaluable!


  • Finally, another great mentor that can guide me on how to practice and what it takes to play for The Voice!  #TeamNate"


    Phung Dang, Rockville, MD

    Freelance drummer


"Nate has been a teacher (and now a friend) for more than two years now.   Nate is such a great instructor.  He is savvy at assessing individual skill levels and interests,

  • then tailors a fun and practical program for drumming improvement.  It is a privilege to be tutored by an incredibly technically skilled, formally educated - yet kind, patient, and jovial professional!! I would highly recommend Nate as a teacher!"


    Guy E., Casper, Wyoming


"I’ve been taking lessons with Nate for two years now, and I can’t recommend him enough. Before then, I had been playing drums for over 30 years as a self-taught drummer,

  • but I had developed bad habits that were holding me back from progressing. From the very first lesson, Nate had an incredible ability to pinpoint exactly what I could improve. He didn’t just identify the problems—he showed me how to correct them with perfectly tailored exercises and techniques. When I started, my goal was to improve my dynamics, ghost notes, and kick technique so I could play steady, solid grooves. What I didn’t expect was just how much Nate would elevate my playing overall. He’s brought my drumming to a level I didn’t even think was possible. But what really sets Nate apart is his genuine, positive, and encouraging attitude. His enthusiasm makes every lesson enjoyable and inspiring. If you’re serious about improving your drumming, I can't think of a better teacher than Nate."


    David Dans, Los Angeles

    Composer / Producer


"I've been taking lessons from Nate for about two years. In this short amount of time he has brought my playing to a whole new level. The wealth of knowledge he shares…

  • during lessons is invaluable. I highly recommend you getting in touch with Nate. I'm glad I did."


    John Glozek, Jr., Long Island, NY

    Freelance drummer

    Modern Drummer Magazine, contributing writer


“Nate Morton is a fantastic teacher, and a king of positive reinforcement. His curriculum sets you up for success, and has stood the test of time. I have stolen most of his fills, and a lot of his ideas,

  • and use them in my own playing!” 


    Carson Groenewold, Rockville, MD

    Freelance & Sessions

    Chris Ryan Band


"I came to Nate after taking lessons for a few years with another teacher and realized I wasn’t progressing the way I wanted to.  After a few lessons, I realized that…

  • what I was missing was a foundation.  Nate is giving me the foundation that I am missing.  He is patient, non-judgmental and he is insightful and intuitive.  He zeros in on the things that are holding me back.  He is dedicated to my drumming and sees my potential.  He LOVES teaching and it shows and he is very giving of his knowledge. Anyone who takes drum  lessons from Nate is in for a wonderful ride from one of the very best if not the best!"


    Ann Hadsell, Los Angles, CA


"Nate is an animated, lively, and energetic teacher who makes every aspect of his lessons exciting and engaging. Every lesson with Nate is thorough…

  • and productive and always provides good vibes and a fun time."


    Jake Hause, San Gabriel, CA


"Nate’s positive approach to teaching and ability to demonstrate real world, usable ideas has helped me progress further than I ever thought I could. His passion for music and drumming…

  • is infectious. I can’t recommend him highly enough!!"


    John Hause, San Gabriel, CA


"I’ve been playing drums and percussion professionally in one shape or another for the past 35 years. Touring, Broadway, West End, Orchestral, TV, Recording…

  • the list goes on. But I’m always striving to learn new things. And seeking out Nate was one of the best things I’ve done. He is an amazing teacher, has unlocked musical elements in me that I didn’t know existed and become a great mentor and friend. Nate has a unique way to get his ideas across. I’ve been studying with him since 2018 and still going strong. There is always a new avenue to take, new styles to explore and  check out new ideas. Whether it’s evaluating my latest recordings or pushing to try a new approach, Nate has been an excellent resource. I can’t recommend him enough!"


    Noel Heraty, San Diego, CA

    Percussionist, National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland

    Percussionist, Riverdance

    Recording Drummer for The Wiggles


“Nate’s instruction and guidance have helped me up my drumming game significantly in just the 5 months we’ve worked together. My goal starting out was to be able to be in a better band,

  • with better players and more interesting and difficult music, and that goal has already been achieved. If you’re looking for a top level instructor who is easy to work with, will help make you a better drummer (YOU still have to put in the work), and who also can share fascinating ‘industry insider’ insights, look no further than Nate.”


    Mitch Hersh, Boulder, CO 

    Unchained


"Putting aside the fact that Nate's insane resumé speaks for itself, I can assure you that he's somehow an even better teacher. I have been working with Nate for over a year now and…

  • couldn't be happier with my progress.  He's able to explain music theory in a way that even this 25+ year uneducated drummer can understand! Before Nate I felt like I was stuck spinning my tires, playing the same fills and chops every time I sat down at the kit.  Now I honestly feel like I hear music differently and understand the timing and musicality much better...with a new appreciation for space, time and articulation.  My playing has become a lot more effortless, and he's given me endless new fill ideas and concepts to work on.  Despite the fact that Nate is an absolute monster on the kit, he's not intimidating at all to play in front of.  It's quite the opposite actually.  I think you are stuck with me for a while now buddy, can't wait for my next lesson."


    Jeff J., Thunder Bay, Canada


"I've been playing drums for over 40 years but never took lessons until I met Nate. From the first minute of my first lesson, Nate made me feel at home. His approach is to…

  • ensure you feel comfortable, understand the lesson, and have a great time. With his professional experience as a touring musician and part of the house band on The Voice, Nate brings a wealth of knowledge and a great sense of humor. He emphasizes that there are no shortcuts and that you get out of it what you put into it. Nate's dedication to his craft and his genuine care for his students' growth make him an exceptional teacher."


    Dan J., Las Vegas, NV


“Nate provides an endless wealth of knowledge, kindness, and instruction that simply cannot be found anywhere else. He helped me grow incredible lengths…

  • as a musician and a person; I am truly grateful to have him as an educator, mentor, and friend in my life.”


    Casey Kernohan, Santa Barbara, CA

    Freelance drummer

    Matisyahu

    Cydeways


"I’ve been playing drums since I was 5 years old, played professionally in the 80’s for 10 years, but was pretty self taught along the way.  I was definitely at a plateau…

  • in my drumming. I saw that Nate gave lessons so I decided to give it a try. I have to admit that this was a little intimidating. Nate got right back to me and we set up our first lesson. He was so personable and friendly and made me feel at ease on day one. I had a couple of things that I wanted to get better at: bringing my left hand up to the level of my right hand, and better speed and control with my feet. From day one he put me on a path with practical tools to take my drumming to a whole new level! He is an awesome teacher! He’s got mad skills, and he’ll gladly pass along all of his vast knowledge! I was surprised that he was accessible and affordable. After all, he’s the drummer for The Voice!  You’ll still have to practice, but you’ll know “what” and “how” to practice. Do you want to take your drumming to another level, regardless of your skill set? Reach out to Nate! You’ll be glad you did! Bonus: He’s one of the nicest guys on the planet! You’ll have a blast!"


    Darrel Larson, Oceanside, CA


"Nate is a fantastic teacher. He is contagiously enthusiastic about drumming as well as teaching - I always leave our lessons feeling better about life and drums!

  • He is gifted in helping me see my weak spots and in designing methods of addressing them. He is also gracious and open with his professional mentorship, whether it's discussing broad industry thoughts, granular analysis of specific gigs and their preparation/mechanics, or even helping me work through specific issues I encounter in the industry. Nate is a gem of a human being - cannot recommend him enough!"


    Andrew Maguire, Los Angeles, CA

    Freelance drummer


“I have been taking lessons from Nate just about every week for 3 years now. If you would have asked me 3 years ago what I wanted to accomplish with Nate I would have sold myself short.

  • What I have learned in such a short time is incredible! He is a solid teacher who offers an amazing depth of knowledge and skill”. 


    Corey Manning, Healdsburg, CA


"What started out as what I thought would be a 'one off' lesson with Nate, has turned into a three year journey.  As a seasoned player, I was looking for a few tips.

  • in my drumming. I saw that Nate gave lessons so I decided to give it a try. I have to admit that this was a little intimidating. Nate got right back to me and we set up our first lesson. He was so personable and friendly and made me feel at ease on day one. I had a couple of things that I wanted to get better at: bringing my left hand up to the level of my right hand, and better speed and control with my feet. From day one he put me on a path with practical tools to take my drumming to a whole new level! He is an awesome teacher! He’s got mad skills, and he’ll gladly pass along all of his vast knowledge! I was surprised that he was accessible and affordable. After all, he’s the drummer for The Voice!  You’ll still have to practice, but you’ll know “what” and “how” to practice. Do you want to take your drumming to another level, regardless of your skill set? Reach out to Nate! You’ll be glad you did! Bonus: He’s one of the nicest guys on the planet! You’ll have a blast!"


    Darrel Larson, Oceanside, CA


"Since taking lessons with Nate, I’ve received one of my favorite comments as a musician.  A bass player I’ve been jamming with for over 20 years said 'I can still tell it’s you playing,

  • it’s just tighter, the groove is solid.'  If a student can keep their own character and improve on the instrument, seems like the ultimate goal!"


    Dustin Prince, Los Angeles, CA


"As a professional drummer myself, I came to Nate to work on a few specific issues. He not only has approached our lessons with remarkable thoughtfulness and insight,

  • he has also given me the inspiration I didn't know I needed to push myself to play my best. Nate's passion for teaching is extraordinary, as is his commitment to his students."


    Reade Pryor, Los Angeles, CA

    Independent, Studio


“Nate taught me the importance of showmanship behind the drums, in addition to developing my musical precision. The points he gave me to enhance my showmanship…

  • were a game changer. Nate is an all around beast of a player, and he’s teaching straight from the experience he has working in Los Angeles at the highest level.”


    Lucy Ritter, Los Angeles, CA

    Chappell Roan


"Nate Morton is not only an incredible drummer but an incredible person. My son is diagnosed with Autism and for some people that might create a barrier. Not Nate!

  •  He is able to individualize his lesson to meet his students needs. He is caring and committed , making you feel connected and supported with your learning. He is a master  on stage and off ! We are so lucky to have found him. My son looks forward to his lessons and is increasing skills every time!"


    Susan Smith, Worcester, MA

    Parent

    Special Needs Educator


"I started working with Nate a few years ago. After we discussed my drumming history, band status at the time, musical interests, areas of concerns, physical issues/injuries,

  • and playing in general, he immediately came up with a plan. After not only discussing the plan but the reasons for it, I was ready to go. We started by cleaning up my playing accuracy (removing/reducing the flaming between limbs), time, groove/feel, and coordination. We then moved to improving my fills "toolbox," worked through an accelerated song learning process, continued with Latin/Brazilian grooves (per my request -- I didn't "need" to learn them but really wanted to learn them at least at a beginner level), and so on. Nate has been SUPER helpful of course as he confirms my understanding of the materials. Nate often reviews my playing to songs that I play with my current band (as with previous bands). He also reviews videos that I send him that are of specific practice assignments (or something on which I'd like him to comment) and from gigs (again, specific parts of songs on which I want him to comment such as a solo, a particular issue I "think" I am "might have" had, certain grooves I've played), etc. He goes through these videos with a "fine tooth comb" as he watches them multiple times before or during our sessions. When before, he always sends me his comments so that I can address them. In addition to the actual playing of drums, Nate has answered ALL of the questions throughout the years that I've had around endorsements (not that I was going to try for any, I was just curious), issues that occurred during gigs and how they were addressed, experiences of being a "hired gun," working with different personalities, and what it's like to have performed on the various TV shows like Rock Star, The Bonnie Hunt Show, The Voice, etc. Nate has helped me realize that what I am doing now as a casual but serious Drummer is just fine. Even though I was able to "hold my own" and play many styles of music with many bands over the decades with my "on again, off again" periods due to work and school, my Wife has noticed and commented over the last couple years regarding how much my playing has improved -- more about my groove and feel, which has recently started to feel good thanks to Nate. Also, my accelerated ability to learn songs due to Nate's process has been paramount because my current band tends to learn 4 to 5 songs every few weeks. Nate has been SOOOOO GOOD to work with and to take lessons with. He's even helped me resolve my self-deprecating frustration with my playing. Bottom Line: I can't say enough about Nate's Teaching. He understands that it's his Students' time, and he positively works alongside us to get us to where we want to go!"


    Jim Strickland

    Boston, MA


"Upon first meeting Nate, you will instantly notice that this man's dedication and love for music is INFECTIOUS.  It is a rare thing indeed to find someone so skilled…

  • at our craft with the desire AND ability to break it all down.  Whether I  have a tour or audition coming up, I always get a few tune up lessons from one of the best to ever play the drums."


    Craig Thatcher, Santa Barbara, CA

    Freelance drummer

    Christopher Cross

    Robin Ford


"Nate is a down-to-earth, patient, and encouraging teacher. He's had a considerable impact on my growth as a drummer, my love for drumming, and appreciation…

  • for different genres of music and accomplished drummers within these genres. I really appreciate Nate's mentorship and guidance; he certainly is a gifted educator."


    Ruth T., Ontario, Canada


"I've had an incredible experience with Nate Morton's online drum instruction. His lessons are clear, engaging, and tailored to my unique learning style. Nate's expert guidance and deep…

  • knowledge of drumming have not only improved my technical skills but also boosted my confidence and creativity behind the kit. What sets Nate apart is his generosity with his time—he goes above and beyond by providing extra materials like audio and video recordings of each session, which really help reinforce the concepts and techniques we cover. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine advanced techniques, his personalized approach and genuine passion for teaching make every session a game-changer. I highly recommend Nate Morton's online drum lessons to anyone serious about taking their drumming to the next level!"


    Dr. Scott Christie, Nova Scotia, Canada


"Reaching out to Nate was one of the best decisions of my drumming journey. Not only is he an incredible player, but he’s also an outstanding teacher who knows exactly…

  • how to make learning fun, engaging, and accessible for all skill levels. His ability to break things down in a clear and inspiring way makes every lesson 100% worth it. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your skills, Nate will take your playing to the next level—just like he did for me. Simply one of the best!"


    Denis Vidovic, Slovenia

    Freelance drummer


"As a concert pianist, I wanted to improve my rhythm skills, and taking drum lessons with Nate opened up a whole new world for me. He’s not just a great drummer,

  • performing for Grammys, I Heart Video Awards and other events... he’s a great instructor, teaching me solid fundamental techniques and communicating musical ideas. Amazing!"


    Yan Zhang, Irvine, CA

    Founder of Beauty of Music School


Check out what these players have to say about lessons with Nate!