For young drummers ages 8+
Kids Group Class
A structured, upbeat class where kids build timing, coordination, confidence, and real playing skills alongside other young drummers.
$197/mo
Four one-hour lessons
OC Drum Academy
Master the drums. Your journey starts here.
Learn with OC Drum Academy's instructor team in Tustin, led by CalArts-trained founder Scott Cummings and shaped by more than 20 years of teaching and performing experience. Classes are just $197/mo for four one hour lessons.
You have always wanted to play.
Maybe you tap rhythms on your desk, air-drum in the car, or keep thinking about the songs you wish you could play.
You have hit a wall.
If lessons have felt random or inconsistent, our expert instructors give you a structured path and steady instruction.
You want it done right.
This is for students who want real progress, clear expectations, and instruction built around the music they love.
Sound familiar?
You are not too late.
Whether you are picking up sticks for the first time or starting over with a proven process, this is your moment.
The process
How it works
01
Book a trial lesson
Sign up to schedule your trial lesson and tell us what you want to learn.
02
Follow a proven process
We use a proven process to help you get started easily and get wins right away.
03
Start playing
Begin with practical, song-based lessons that build technique and confidence.
$20
one trial lesson
Not ready to commit?
Start with one lesson.
Then decide.
Try a private 30-minute drum or percussion lesson before choosing an ongoing program. It is a simple, low-pressure way for kids, teens, or adults to meet an instructor and get behind the kit.
- 30 minutesOne-on-one instruction
- Ages 8–adultDrums or percussion
- No monthly commitmentSee if it feels right first
Group classes
Choose your class.
Find your rhythm.
Four one-hour lessons each month for $197. Choose the class that fits, then use the booking page to reserve your place.
For adult beginners
Adult Group Class
Learn practical beats, timing, and technique in a welcoming small group built for adults who are ready to start playing.
$197/mo
Four one-hour lessons
Live weekly availability
Find your class time
Open slots and full classes come directly from Opus and update automatically.
Live availability powered by Opus
What we offer
Ways to learn
Group lessons
Small group sessions for students who want structure, momentum, and peer energy. Only $197/mo for four one hour lessons.
Kids lessonsBeginner programs
A practical start for new players who want to play real beats and songs quickly.
Beginner lessonsQuick answers
Choosing drum lessons in Orange County
Best fit for kids and teens
OC Drum Academy teaches students age 8 and up with structured weekly lessons, clear practice goals, and parent-friendly communication. The studio is a strong fit for beginners who need confidence and students who want a real path beyond random songs.
Best fit for adult beginners
Adult students can start without experience or a full drum kit. Lessons focus on practical beats, coordination, timing, and songs so adults can make progress without feeling rushed or behind.
Price and first step
Group classes are $197/mo for four one hour lessons. Choose the kids or adult class above to book, or schedule a trial lesson to find the right lesson format.
Nearby cities served
The studio is in Tustin and serves Orange County students from Irvine, Orange, Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, Anaheim, Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, and nearby communities.
Lesson guides
Find the right starting point
Kids drum lessons
For Orange County families looking for structured drum lessons for kids age 8 and up.
View kids lessonsAdult drum lessons
For adult beginners and returning players who want to learn without feeling behind.
View adult lessonsBeginner drum lessons
For new drummers who need a clear first lesson, simple practice plan, and real songs.
View beginner lessonsUpcoming camps
Drum camps
Summer camp
Dates: Weekly from June 1 to August 7
Time: 9 AM to 12
PM
Ages: 8-17
Price: $250/week
Thanksgiving camp
Dates: November 23 to 25
Time: 9 AM to 12
PM
Ages: 8-17
Price: $150/week
Winter camp
Dates: December 21 to 23 and December 28 to 30
Time: 9 AM to 12
PM
Ages: 8-17
Price: $150/week
Orange County service area
Drum lessons near you
Tustin drum lessons
Private drum lessons at the OC Drum Academy studio on E. Main St.
Irvine drum lessons
Structured drum instruction near Irvine for kids, teens, adults, and beginners.
Orange drum lessons
Private drum lessons near Orange with OC Drum Academy's instructor team.
Santa Ana drum lessons
Beginner-friendly drum lessons near Santa Ana from the Tustin studio.
Costa Mesa drum lessons
Private and online drum lessons for Costa Mesa students.
Anaheim drum lessons
Drum lessons near Anaheim for families and adult students.
Meet the founder
Built by Scott.
Taught by a trusted team.
Scott Cummings founded OC Drum Academy after more than two decades of teaching and performing throughout Los Angeles and Orange County. He holds a master's degree in Jazz Studies from CalArts and continues to shape the academy's teaching approach.
Students may learn with Scott or one of OC Drum Academy's hand-picked instructors, depending on the program, schedule, and student fit. The team teaches in a private studio environment with lessons built around technique, reading, timing, creativity, and the music each student wants to play.
No matter which instructor you work with, you get a clear path, steady accountability, and a structured approach designed to build real confidence behind the kit.
Scott also hosts the Game of Drum Thrones podcast, where he discusses all things drumming, technique, and the music industry.
What students say
Real Google reviews
1 / 6
Common questions
FAQ
What makes OC Drum Academy different?+
OC Drum Academy makes learning drums simple, fun, and fast. Our team uses a proven process that makes it easy for anyone to get started and get wins right away.
In-person lessons are supported by online reference videos, a growing library of songs in sheet music form, online notation tools, consistent instructors, and a structured curriculum so nothing gets overlooked.
What age is best to start drum lessons?+
OC Drum Academy teaches students ages 8 and up, including adult beginners and returning players. We have taught students from age 8 through students in their 70s.
How long are the lessons?+
Lessons are available in 30-minute and 60-minute formats for private and group instruction. Beginners often start with 30-minute sessions once or twice per week, while more advanced students may choose additional classes.
How do scheduling and makeups work?+
We keep things flexible. For private lessons, you can cancel or reschedule as late as 10 AM the morning of your lesson. No penalties, no hassle.
Do I need a drum set at home?+
No drum set is required to start. Most beginners only need sticks and a practice pad.
Your instructor will show you exactly what to buy and how to practice from day one. Students can also use the practice room for free during business hours until they are ready to purchase a drum set.
What instruments and styles do you teach?+
We primarily teach drum set, and our studio is fully equipped with electric drum kits for group classes and acoustic kits for private instruction.
We also teach a wide variety of world percussion, including congas, bongos, kanjira, timbales, djembe, and riq.
Lessons can cover rock, pop, hip-hop, worship, world music, funk, jazz, reading, technique, and time feel. Lessons are built around music students actually love so practice stays motivating.
Who are the instructors?+
Scott Cummings founded OC Drum Academy and holds a master's degree in Jazz Studies from CalArts. Students may work with Scott or one of the academy's hand-picked instructors, depending on the program, schedule, and student fit. The team follows a consistent, structured teaching approach.
How much do lessons cost?+
Group classes are just $197/mo for four one hour lessons. We also have different lesson options and formats.
The best next step is to book a $20 trial lesson so we can explain the program, the options, and show you our proven process for getting started right away.
What results can I expect?+
Within the first few lessons, students begin playing real beats and songs. After a few months, many students notice major improvement in focus, coordination, musicality, and confidence.
Progress is tracked so students and families can clearly see growth over time.
Do you offer performance opportunities?+
Yes. OC Drum Academy offers regular live showcases. Performing helps students build confidence and have fun sharing their music.
Where are you located?+
OC Drum Academy is located at 1131 E. Main St, Suite 200, Tustin, CA 92780, close to Irvine, Orange, and Santa Ana.
Not nearby? Online drum lessons are also available anywhere in the U.S.
Are OC Drum Academy lessons good for complete beginners?+
Yes. Complete beginners are welcome. Students can begin with sticks and a practice pad, then build coordination, timing, reading, and real grooves step by step.
Do you teach adult drum lessons in Orange County?+
Yes. OC Drum Academy teaches adult beginners, returning players, and adults who want a structured way to learn songs, rhythm, technique, and musical confidence.
What should I search for if I need drum lessons near Irvine or Orange?+
OC Drum Academy is based in Tustin, close to Irvine, Orange, Santa Ana, and central Orange County. Many nearby families choose the Tustin studio for private and group drum instruction.
How do I get started?+
Sign up for a trial lesson and OC Drum Academy will reach out to schedule your first session. You can also text "DRUMS" or call 714-200-8234 to book.
Questions before you book?
Talk with OC Drum Academy
