Trial lesson and signing up
How do I book a trial lesson?
Use our online calendar to pick a day, time and teacher. Ideally choose a time that would also work in the future: if you want to continue after the trial lesson, we can keep that spot for you. Having trouble with the calendar? Send us a message via the contact page and we’ll suggest a few dates.
How much is a trial lesson?
A 45 minute trial lesson costs €36 for students under 21 and €44 for students aged 21 and over. After booking you receive an invoice, which you pay before the lesson.
Do I need to bring my own drumsticks?
No, there are plenty of sticks available during the trial lesson. You can also combine the trial lesson with a new pair of sticks for €16; just let us know when you book.
What happens after the trial lesson?
If you want to continue, we plan a fixed spot in the schedule together and send you a link to register. You can start at any time of the year; if you start mid-month, we settle the lessons of that month on your first invoice.
Are lessons available in English?
Yes, lessons are also available in English. Just let us know when you book your trial lesson.
Lessons and schedule
From what age can I take drum lessons?
We teach students from 10 to 101 years old.
My child is under 10, can they still take lessons?
We focus on children aged 10 and up, which is also why our lessons last 45 minutes. Children under 10 often can’t reach the pedals of a professional drum kit like ours yet. We recommend starting with other music lessons first, such as general music classes or snare drum lessons. Once your child is old enough, we’d love to help them get started on drums!
How long is a lesson and how often do I have one?
A lesson lasts 45 minutes. You choose weekly lessons (38 per school year) or every other week (19 per school year). We recommend weekly for steady progress, but every other week is a fine alternative.
What are A weeks and B weeks?
The school year is divided into A weeks and B weeks. With weekly lessons you have a lesson in both. With lessons every other week, you have them in either the A weeks or the B weeks. The annual schedule shows which week is which, and when the holidays are.
Are there lessons during school holidays?
No, we follow the secondary school holiday schedule for the Midden Nederland region. There are no lessons during school holidays.
What if I can't make a lesson?
Let your teacher know as soon as possible, ideally at least 24 hours in advance. We’ll do our best to reschedule, although that isn’t always possible. Missed lessons are not refunded. If you miss more than three lessons in a row due to illness or family circumstances, let us know; the fee can then be refunded in consultation.
What should I bring to my lesson?
A pair of drumsticks and a folder for your notes and exercises. You can also buy sticks at the studio.
Where is the studio and how do I get in?
The studio is at Gruttersdijk 12 in Utrecht. Ring the bell of studio 008; the nameplate says ‘Tim Vermulst’ in small letters. Ringing once is enough.
Payment and cancelling
How do I pay for lessons?
You pay the fee for a full school year in 10 equal monthly instalments; there’s no invoice in July and August. You pay for the membership, not per lesson, so the number of lessons per month can vary because of holidays. Quarterly, half-yearly or yearly payment is also possible. See our prices.
Why do adults pay more?
Music lessons for students under 21 are exempt from VAT. From age 21 you pay 21% VAT on the lessons. All prices on our website include VAT.
Am I tied to a full school year?
No, the notice period is one calendar month. You cancel by email; you then have lessons for the current month and the month after. See also our terms and conditions (in Dutch).
Practising at home
Do I need to buy a drum kit straight away?
No, that’s not necessary. After a few lessons you’ll notice how great it is to practise at home. We’re happy to help you find a kit, and there are also places in Utrecht where you can rent a rehearsal room.
Should I buy an acoustic or an electronic kit?
That depends on your situation. We love acoustic kits most, but that isn’t always possible. The advantage of an electronic kit is that you can practise with headphones at any time of day. During lessons you play on a professional acoustic kit.
Should I wear ear protection while drumming?
Drums can be pretty loud, so if you play often it’s smart to use earplugs. You can buy them at our studio too.
Can’t find your question? Check the practical information or get in touch.