Build confidence, deepen your rhythm, and develop a personal approach to music with one-on-one instruction from Clif Koufman.
Online Drum Lessons
Clif began offering online drum lessons in 2016, and many students continued studying virtually after he moved from Portland, Oregon, to Nashville. Through mentorship from Daniel Glass and Bruce Becker, he developed an approach to online lessons that is clear, musical, and interactive—every bit as effective as learning in person.
Lessons draw on years of drum set study and deep experience in West African rhythm. Clif has traveled to West Africa three times, studying with master drummers Famoudou Konaté, Mamady Keïta, and Bolokada Condé. Students can connect solid technique with creativity and groove, exploring drum set, djembe, balafon, and other percussion instruments.
In-Person Lessons
In-person private lessons are also available. Contact Sound & Rhythm Studio to discuss your musical goals and lesson options. Children can also study drum set and hand drums in private lessons; contact the studio to discuss current options.
FROM THE LESSON STUDIO
African hand drum lessons online
Drum set study
Playing with an ensemble
Lesson in the studio
Practice setup in the lesson studio
Studying West African rhythms
With Mamady Keïta
With Famoudou Konaté
Drums in Morowaya
WHAT STUDENTS SAY
“Clifford has clearly put a lot of thought into how to make Zoom learning easy and efficient for his students. Straight from Nashville, the Sound and Rhythm Drumming School rocks!”— Jacquee D.
“Clifford told me he can teach anyone how to drum and after my first lesson I can see why. He is a very good teacher, calm and patient. Clifford explains everything clearly and he has good knowledge of drums. I’m excited and I’m looking forward to continuing on.”— Glen L.
“At each lesson, Clifford provides clear and concise instructions of what’s needed for me to improve my playing. Clifford continues to challenge me and push me to do more (in a very good way). I look forward to many more years of improvement and exploration of what’s possible on the drum set with Clifford!”— Mark S.
“I started playing drums in my early 60’s. Clifford was patient and a great instructor. Would highly recommend for all ages. Today I am playing in a band.”— Bill W.