Music is my passion. I’ve been providing quality drum instruction to beginner, intermediate, and advanced drummers aged 9 and up since 2002.

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Vic Firth drumsticks

Perspective

One-on-one guidance is a great way to gain the perspective you need to grow. For over twenty-five years, I have helped musicians make measurable improvements in their craft.

Confidence

As your mentor, I can help you develop your technique, timekeeping, and musical feel, building the confidence you’ll need to perform alongside other musicians.

Vic Firth drumsticks on a Ludwig snare drums

Creativity

My approach distills decades behind the drums into lessons focused on skill, efficiency, and musicality. Every session is tailored to your needs, allowing you to have fun and be creative while achieving your goals.

Through this service, I can answer all your questions about playing music, including:

  • learning songs (quickly and accurately)

  • reading music (it’s not as hard as it seems)

  • performing for an audience (get in the flow of the show)

  • recording in the studio (think like a producer)

  • hand and foot technique (the minutiae that makes all the difference)

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Location

My studio is located south of Denver, near the Englewood/Littleton border. Many students visit me from nearby Centennial, Greenwood Village, Highlands Ranch, and Lakewood.

5366 S Bannock St, Unit 204
Littleton, CO 80120

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are your qualifications?

I started drumming in 1993 at age nine. By 15, I was subbing for my father at rehearsals and gigs. I started teaching in 2002, and I moved to Denver in 2004. Since then, I have built a reputation among artists, bands, producers, and entertainment agencies as a reliable and consistent drummer who can adapt to many styles and situations.

Drawing on more than two decades of teaching and performing experience, I have developed a comprehensive approach to drumming. My students have successfully auditioned for programs such as Denver School of the Arts, Denver Citywide Honor Band, and Jefferson County Honor Band. Many have even pursued music at the collegiate level, attending schools like Colorado State University, DePaul University, Roosevelt University, and the University of Oregon. I also advise other working pros, helping them take their music in new directions.

What do I need to bring to my lesson?

If we meet at your home, we’ll use the gear you use for your performances. If you come to me, all you’ll need to bring is your sticks. My studio has two drum kits set up side by side, affording you an up-close view as I demonstrate concepts. This also allows me to play along with you as you learn. As our lessons progress, I’ll have handwritten exercises that you’ll want to bring with you as well.

How much does it cost?

In-Studio:
$75 for 60 minutes / $60 for 45 minutes

Zoom:
$75 for 60 minutes

In-Home*:
$150 for 60 minutes

*In-home lessons are only available in the Denver Metro and Colorado Front Range regions and are subject to availability.

  • See what students are saying about their experience...
  • "He pushed me and challenged me to become a better drummer. He saw potential in me when I couldn't see it myself." - Graylen Goff
  • "Ryan is awesome! He is a great musician and teacher. My youngest is a shy kid but Ryan knew right away how to work with her and she is enjoying drum lessons with him." - Kate Martinez
  • "Ryan is a thoughtful, methodical teacher." - John Cox
  • "Ryan not only plays amazingly well himself, he understands and teaches proper technique and has a vast knowledge of musical history." - Ann Chappelle
  • "He has the ability to quickly connect and communicate with his students. And the fact that he's out playing live gives you the opportunity to see what he teaches you in action." - Patrick Dubois
  • "He was really able to quickly help me focus and direct my energies as a beginning jazz drummer, to the point where I was able to start playing with other musicians within a year." - Duane Gabel
  • "I highly recommend anyone take lessons from him, whether you're a beginner or you've been playing for years!" - Erin Jordheim
  • "My daughter was unsure about learning to play drums and Ryan made the process comfortable and fun for her." - Linda Harrison
  • "Ryan Elwood is a phenomenal drum teacher. My son has been taking lessons for over four years now from Ryan. He is a patient teacher and is great with students of all ages." - Leigh Smith
  • "He has been an amazing support person for my son; consistently encouraging, listening, challenging, and being fun to hang with." - Erin Milan
  • "He's a working drummer with years of real world experience that he's happy to share." - Ken Hamel
  • "He helped me tons in performance and breaking bad habits. Would recommend to anyone." - Seth Perna
  • "I came in knowing the basics and after only a few weeks learning from Ryan, I now have a deeper love and respect for drumming as an art form." - Allison St. John
  • "My son was comfortable with him from the start and he just thinks he's pretty cool, too, which always helps when you're working with a middle school student." - Amy Stivers

Contact

Email: ryanjelwood@gmail.com

Phone: (720) 404-2237

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