About Erik Holmes | Drum & Percussion Teacher in West Bend, WI
Hi — I’m Erik.
I’m a drummer, percussionist, and private lesson teacher based in West Bend, Wisconsin. I’ve been teaching for close to 20 years, and I still genuinely love walking into the studio each day and helping students figure things out.
Most of my students are kids and teens, but I also work with adults who are finally making time for music again — or picking the drums back up after years away. No matter the age, my goal is the same: make lessons useful, encouraging, and something students actually look forward to.
How I Teach (and Why It Works)
I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all drum lessons.
Some students are very goal-driven. Some need structure. Some need confidence. Some need permission to just have fun playing music again. My job is to figure out what this student needs and build lessons around that.
In lessons, we work on:
- Reading music and rhythmic accuracy
- Drum set and percussion technique
- Listening skills and musical awareness
- School band material, solos, auditions, and festivals
- Playing music, not just exercises
I keep things clear, honest, and age-appropriate — and I try very hard not to be “that scary music teacher.”
Why Parents Choose Me
Parents usually come to me for one of three reasons:
- They want their child to feel more confident
- They want structure and accountability
- They’ve had a lesson experience before that just didn’t click.
Here’s what they tend to notice once lessons start:
- I’m patient, but I don’t waste time.
Lessons are supportive and encouraging, but they’re also focused. Students know what they’re working on and why it matters. - I meet students where they are.
Not every kid learns the same way or at the same speed. I adjust my teaching so students can succeed without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. - I communicate clearly with parents.
You’ll always know what your child is working on, how they’re progressing, and how to support them at home — even if you don’t have a music background. - I teach responsibility along with music.
Showing up prepared, practicing consistently, and learning how to work through challenges are all part of the process. - I genuinely like working with kids.
I want students to feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and being themselves in lessons. That trust matters.
Most importantly, I want lessons to be something students feel good about — not another source of stress after a long school day.
A Little Background
I earned my degree from the University of Wisconsin–River Falls and have been teaching private percussion lessons ever since. Over the years, my students have earned top ratings at WSMA State Solo & Ensemble, Wisconsin State Honors Band and Orchestra, MYSO, UWAY and school auditions — but more importantly, they become independent, confident musicians.
I’ve also worked as a clinician and presenter around Wisconsin, including appearances at:
- Wisconsin Music Educators Association (WMEA) State Music Conference
- Wisconsin Middle School Band Teachers Association
- Wisconsin Day of Percussion – Percussive Arts Society
- School band programs and workshops
Teaching is my main focus, but performing has always been part of my life too.
Performing Credits
In addition to teaching, I stay active as a performing drummer in a variety of live and media settings. I’ve recorded and performed on projects that have appeared on national television and film, including on:
- Late Night with Seth Meyers
- WWE
- The Meredith Vieira Show
- Resident Alien
- Brockmire
- The Hunt with John Walsh
Live performance is still an important part of my musical life. I currently perform with:
- Country Recording Artist Geoff Landon
- Tom Petty Tribute Petty Things
- Blues Legend Jay Edward
- Kettle Moraine Symphony
- Ol’ Style Skratch
Playing regularly keeps me sharp, connected to real-world musicianship, and brings fresh perspective into my teaching — especially when it comes to groove, time feel, and playing with other people.
Outside of Music
When I’m not teaching or playing, I’m usually:
- Drinking black coffee
- Reading an actual newspaper
- Going for a run
- Traveling the world
- Hanging out with my wife, Rachael, and our kids, Freddie and Daphne
That balance keeps me grounded — and makes me a better teacher.
Thinking About Lessons?
If you’re a parent looking for a drum teacher who’s:
- Patient but honest
- Structured but flexible
- Focused on long-term growth, not quick tricks
- A parent themselves
—or an adult who just wants to play music again — I’d be happy to talk.
Contact Erik Holmes | Drum Lessons in West Bend, WI
My goal isn’t just to teach drumming — it’s to help students build skills and confidence that carry into school, music, and life.