Top Pro
Richard Baker - Pro Drummer
About
Choosing the right drum teacher early matters.
I’m a Musicians Institute graduate with 15+ years of real-world touring and performance experience, including work with artists and bands connected to Peter Frampton, Steve Miller Band, Warren Zevon, Krokus, Faster Pussycat, Blackfoot, and more.
My lessons are built around one goal:
helping students become real drummers — not just people practicing random exercises.
Using my Atlanta Drum Method, students learn:
timing and groove
coordination and control
technique and feel
how to play real songs with confidence
Lessons are structured, practical, and personalized to the student’s level. Beginners build a strong foundation, while more experienced drummers improve consistency, speed, groove, and musical awareness.
Many students come to me after feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated with slow progress. My approach breaks things down step by step so students clearly understand what to practice and why it matters.
I work with:
beginners
returning drummers
young adults
hobby players
serious musicians looking to improve
Available:
private in-person lessons
online lessons
song-based instruction
full drum kit training
The goal is simple:
sit down at the drum set and actually play with confidence.
Specialties
Able to read music
Student can read sheet music, Student understands note durations and rests, Student can't read music
Musical styles
I can make recommendations, Blues, Jazz, Rock, Country
Years experience
No formal training; some self-taught experience, 0 – 2 years experience, 2 – 4 years experience, 4+ years of experience
Types of drums
I can provide recommendations, Traditional drum kit, Snare drum
Lesson length
60 minutes
Student's age
11 – 13 years old, 14 – 18 years old, 19 – 25 years old, 26 – 45 years old, 46 – 65 years old, Over 65 years old
Student have drums
Student already has drums, Student is planning to purchase drums and would advice
Photos and videos
Reviews
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Your trust means everything to us. Learn about our reviews policy.
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juanita R.
Fun and professional
February 20, 2026
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andy H.
I started learning the drum kit as an adult and wanted a teacher who would keep me on track and make sure I was learning things the right way from the beginning. That’s exactly what I’ve gotten from Richard. Lessons are easygoing but focused, and there’s a lot of attention to fundamentals so I’m not picking up bad habits that would come back to bite me later. He explains things clearly, is patient, and always gives me practical stuff to work on between lessons. It’s been a great experience and I’d definitely recommend him.
February 16, 2026
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eric S.
Richard is professional and patient with my son who is learning to play the drums. My son is no Dave Grohl... but maybe one day :) Thanks!
February 05, 2026
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June S.
A personable man with great soul for music. I pretty was in control of the project however it was under the Richards needs. I was commissioned to build a 5 neck guitar for him which made the band a hit!
February 04, 2026
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aja L.
Richard is very professional, organized, and can jam with anyone! He can put together a show in the blink of an eye and can promote shows easily! He is an amazing drummer and anyone would be lucky to work with him!
February 04, 2026
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Emily
He is a great teacher with so much passion in his teaching; it shows both on the kit and off. I have no experience with drumming but I’ve been coming away from these lessons excited for the next one. I now feel so confident in myself and in my abilities.
August 12, 2022
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Every student starts with a skill and goal assessment. From there, I build a structured lesson path focused on timing, coordination, technique, groove, and learning real songs step by step.
The goal is steady, measurable progress without students feeling overwhelmed.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I’m a graduate of Musicians Institute in Hollywood, California, with 15+ years of professional touring, live performance, and studio experience.
My performance background includes work connected to artists and bands such as Peter Frampton, Steve Miller Band, Warren Zevon, Krokus, Faster Pussycat, Blackfoot, and more.
I’ve performed across North America and bring real-world playing experience into every lesson.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Yes. Pricing is based on lesson length, travel requirements, and package options.
Lessons are available for beginner through advanced students, both in-person and online.
How did you get started teaching?
I started drumming young after learning from my grandfather, who was a wedding drummer.
Not long after, I began teaching neighborhood kids and realized I enjoyed helping students improve just as much as performing.
That eventually developed into the Atlanta Drum Method.
What types of students have you worked with?
I’ve worked with:
kids
teens
college students
busy adults
returning drummers
hobby musicians
students preparing for bands and live performance
Lessons are adjusted to the student’s experience level and goals.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Attending the NAMM Show in California was a highlight. It’s one of the largest music industry events in the world and a great place to stay connected to new gear, artists, and developments in drumming and live performance.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Choose a teacher who teaches you how to practice, not just what to play.
A good teacher should help you:
build timing
avoid bad habits early
understand groove and feel
develop confidence behind the kit
The right structure early on makes a huge difference later.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Students should think about:
what type of music they want to play
how serious they want to become
how much time they can realistically practice
whether they want lessons for fun, performance, or long-term improvement
Many beginners also ask about equipment.
In most cases, cymbals are actually more expensive than the drums themselves when building a quality setup over time.
Services offered
Drum