Studying with Neil at the Academy of Drums helped me place higher than most freshman at The Berklee College of Music. Neil and the rest of the teachers at the Academy are amazing and are truly devoted to their work!
Jon Grill – Former Student of the Academy of Drums

Since my son Chris has come to the Academy of Drums, he has been playing with such great rhythm. Brian Brosen has been a big help in my sons progress. Chris, to my amazement, can read musical notes and copy a beat from a song that he would listen to. I enjoy listening to him play. Thank you for putting your heart into this, and helping children as well as adults achieve their goals in drumming.
Denise Cordo – Parent of an Academy of Drums Student

I have to tell you what a fantastic experience it is to attend the Academy of Drums.
For many years I tried to learn how to play the guitar with very little result. I started more than thirty guitar books but never finished any of them. I had no luck finding a good guitar instructor and it seemed like my dream of playing an instrument would not come true. Then I discovered the Academy of Drums!
I am proud to say that after only a year of lessons at the Academy of Drums I have actually finished the book and my friends say I should play in a band. I realize that my drumming success is directly related to your professionalism and your skill as an instructor.
Due to the hard work and long hours you and your staff devote to the Academy of Drums, I have my own professionally mixed demo disc, I have seen incredible drum show events and I have even met world famous drummers. You have changed my life!
Thank you so much for running such a great organization.
Shawn Mattsson – Student of the Academy of Drums

For several years I've invited Neil Garthly to come to my school to demonstrate his "Customized Drum Set". He comes into my Music Technology class when we get to the subject of instrument design and invention to give an example of creative application. Not only do the students get inspiration to be creative and to think "out of the box" but Neil rally pumps them up with his performance.
Neil has put together an organized, entertaining, inspirational and education program that I trust will have the same effect on every school program he visits. He is the subject of conversation for weeks after the visit with the members of the class. I now also have students that have signed up for the class next term asking if the Amazing Drum Guy is coming to their class also. Of course I tell them yes.
Harold Frazee – Monsignor Donovan HS, Band Director/Music Technology

I have been fortunate to observe Neil and the staff of The Academy in three different venues, in the studio, at the Academy Drum Fest, and on trips with students. Their professionalism, friendly manner, and caring are evident in all they do. As a teacher, parent, and drummer, I wholeheartedly endorse The Academy of Drums.
Scott Magann – Public School Teacher and Customer of the Academy of Drums

The Academy of Drums was a great setting for my first drum clinic. The friendly and professional atmosphere made it a memorable experience that I look forward to doing again!
Jason Rullo – Drummer from Symphony X, Nominated for Modern Drummers Reader Poll 2003

I’ve been playing drums for almost 18 years and I have been studying at the Academy for the last 18 months. I have nothing short of a raving excitement every week when my scheduled lesson time arrives. I had no formal training other then playing by ear and in the short time in which I’ve been studying at the Academy, I’ve learned proper technique, reading ability and time signature understanding. This has helped me realize and rediscover the limitless possibilities of creativeness that drumming and music allows. I’ve found nothing but a welcoming friendly camaraderie amongst the teaching staff and students. I’ve made some friends and especially with my teacher, Steve McNabb. The staff is professional, structured and Neil’s curriculum for younger students is nothing short of innovative. Between the availability of the Academy’s annual Drum Fest at the Ocean County College, the Modern Drummer Festival trips, master classes by the teaching staff, and some very highly regarded professionals who have given clinics, The Academy of Drums is unrivaled by any other instructional facility in the area. Kudos to Neil and all the staff. I look forward to experiencing the energy I feel every week I’m there. I have recommended the Academy to several friends, associates, etc. There is nothing more enlightening then seeing a young child progress towards their highest levels of achievement. Again, thank you The Academy of Drums. Love & Light.
Paul Linn (student for life!!!) Student at The Academy of Drums

I've been with the Academy of Drums since January 2001 and I love it! It's fun and educational! The teachers are very confident and serious when it comes to drums! They also are fun to talk to! They have tours and stuff that I really like!
Danny Eagen Student at The Academy of Drums

I just want to thank you for doing such a great job with Devin. As you know, Devin has Williams Syndrome. With this learning disability, he has a little trouble with his school work. But since beginning drum lessons three years ago, his confidence has soared in everything, including his school work. With this disability, he is very musically inclined, but now he has learned the art of playing the drums and enjoys the discipline that it takes. Each year, I also take him to a Williams Syndrome Music Camp. All of the parents and staff their have made comments on his great progress. THANK YOU AGAIN.
Don Danella Parent of an Academy student

By accident I caught Neil Garthly giving drum lessons on TV. Not being a drummer myself, I found the program (Drumology) to be outstanding and interesting to learn about some of the drumming techniques and practices. While playing guitar for years, I always found drumming to be a complex area. Yet, I appreciated a good drummer whenever I saw one at the concerts or shows I have seen. Your lessons gave a good theory background and how drummers get some of the fantastic variations.
Richard Engebretsen Drumology viewer

Musicality. Expertise. Commitment. Respect. Dedication. Caring. These are words that come to mind when I think of The Academy of Drums. The Academy of Drums is a truly unique school, where the art of drumming and music making is joyfully shared and where the commitment to excellence is clearly evident and abundant. I am a student of Neil Garthly and also a music educator in the NJ public school system. I marvel at the level of instruction offered at the Academy of Drums. Every area of music education that an aspiring drummer needs is more than competently and thoroughly addressed. Excellent teaching doesn't stop at the studio door. It has a ripple effect. Neil's extraordinary teaching skills, support, guidance, and generosity have been instrumental in helping me bring the joy of rhythm and drumming to over 150 delighted fourth, fifth and sixth grade school children this year! I have great respect for Neil and the fruition of his vision. The Academy of Drums is a great school!
Julie Bunucci 2003 Teacher of the Year, Tuckerton Elementary School

Dear Neil... I just wanted to let you know that Bryan did a great job not only training Rob to play drums, but to also have amazing confidence in his drumming abilities! If you remember, Rob was going to audition for his High School's 9th annual Star Search Talent Show with three of his friends as a band. Well, as sometimes happens, two of the three got cold feet at the last minute and decided that they weren't ready to audition. Rob was devastated! After several long talks with me, he decided to go it alone. He auditioned as a drum solo and just found out yesterday that he was accepted to perform in the Talent Show! I am so proud of him, but more importantly, he is so proud of himself! I just wanted to thank you and ask you to thank Bryan for doing such a great job as an instructor. He is a wonderful asset to your Academy.
Colleen Weber Parent of an Academy student

"At 38 years old I picked up a pair of drums sticks for the first time. Better late than never as the saying goes! With the professional teaching environment provided by the Academy of Drums, three years later I am able to play at a level that I could not have achieved by myself. Thanks to Neil Garthly and his wonderful staff, I am now a drummer!!" As a father and a drummer, I appreciate the way Neil and his staff teaches the students at the Academy of Drums. They are professional and have created an environment that allows the student to progress at a comfortable pace. Great job guys!!
Frank Acquaviva - Student at The Academy of Drums

"Over the past few months, since my 17 year old son has been taking lessons at The Academy of Drums, I've watched him acquire discipline, structure, and a real sense of purpose in his life. He is also feeling good because he is a part of something positive - The Academy of Drums!! While learning how to play the drums, he is also learning how to read music. He has had a reading disability since the 3rd Grade and has never read a full book. He is actually pulling his drum lesson books out and doing the work. This is also carrying over into his schoolwork. Oh boy!! Also, his self-esteem has improved! With every accomplishment he makes at The Academy of Drums, his self-esteem keeps going up. And all of this is happening as a result of him doing something he always wanted to do - Learn to play the drums!"
Deborah Serina - Mother of a Student at The Academy of Drums

"I had the pleasure of performing with Neil recently and I am so impressed with his musicianship, overall control of the drum set, professionalism and mostly his character. His school, The Academy of Drums, is a huge success with the highest quality of drum education. The students and the teachers also impressed me with their dedication and respect for drumming! I look forward to returning to teach and meet all the students to continue the wave Neil has started! This is a very high standard of drum set education that is raising the bar line on modern drumming!"
Dom Famularo - World Famous Educator and Clinician

"Drummers in the Toms River area are very fortunate to have the extraordinary Academy of Drums in our backyard! About 2 years ago, I started playing out regularly in two bands, and felt the need to improve my chops. At the Academy, I'm learning the right techniques to allow me to play what I want, as long as I want - learning how best to compliment the music - AND, perhaps just as important, the overall environment fosters and reinforces the value of positive thinking towards realizing your dreams. From inspirational instruction, to shop-talk with the staff, students, and world-famous guests, to the convenience of the well-stocked Proshop, the entire experience is continuously exhilarating."
Charlie Wiedemer - Student of The Academy of Drums

"The Academy of Drums has great teachers and a cool vibe. This school is tops on my list for drumming education. Neil and the rest of the staff have an excellent teaching program that guides you through step by step. Keep up the great work."
Jeff Salem - Clinician from Toronto, Canada

"The first thing I noticed as I walked in was the energy. It is instantly comfortable, very professional and very positive! The vibe of the staff and students was enthusiastic and sincere. It's easy to see that everyone there loves drumming… " "…I had a great time and would highly recommend this school to anyone who is considering playing drums."
Spencer Strand - Rhythm Tech Inc. and drumfun.com

"The Academy of Drums is without peer in New Jersey for drum education. Their teachers are top notch, their educational events are well organized and inspirational, and the overall quality of education at the Academy is the best I have ever seen at any private instructional school or music store. I would highly recommend any drummer in the Central / Southern NJ area take the important step of contacting the Academy for private study... you will be glad you did!"
Joe Bergamini - Clinician from New Jersey

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