Educational Programs

Tom Teasley is not only a world-renowned percussionist but also an award-winning educator dedicated to fostering intercultural understanding through the universal language of rhythm. Drawing on his extensive travels and collaborations across the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and the Americas, Tom’s educational work bridges traditional world percussion with contemporary musical innovation. His workshops, residencies, and masterclasses are immersive experiences, where students and audiences alike explore the profound connections between diverse musical traditions and modern expression. By blending ancient rhythms with modern technologies such as live looping, electronics, and multimedia, Tom offers a forward-thinking approach that resonates across cultural and generational lines.

With a teaching style that is as dynamic as his performances, Tom empowers students of all ages and skill levels to engage with rhythm as a tool for creativity, communication, and cultural awareness. As an artist-in-residence at The Kennedy Center and recipient of multiple Fulbright-Hayes Awards, Tom has brought his unique perspective to universities, conservatories, and community programs worldwide. His educational philosophy emphasizes inclusivity, encouraging participants to find their own voice within a global rhythmic tapestry. Whether leading a hands-on percussion workshop, guiding an ensemble in rhythmic improvisation, or demonstrating the power of live looping, Tom’s educational outreach inspires curiosity, collaboration, and a deeper appreciation for the richness of global musical heritage. His passion for teaching is matched by his belief that rhythm has the power to connect, heal, and transform.

01 | Clinics, Masterclasses, Residencies

Education Through Rhythm: A Global Perspective

Clinic Topic: An American Approach to World Percussion

In this dynamic clinic, Tom Teasley seamlessly fuses rhythmic concepts from across the globe into a cohesive and accessible framework. Participants are guided through drumming techniques drawn from diverse traditions, including the Middle East, Far East, and India, while exploring their practical applications in contemporary performance. The workshop is structured into four key sections: palm drums, finger drums, jingle drums, and shakers. Specific techniques are introduced and integrated across instruments such as Djembe, Cajon, Doumbek, Frame Drums, shakers, and a variety of tambourines.

Tom further bridges global percussion with Western traditions by demonstrating how these instruments relate to the American drum set, using four-part coordination. The clinic incorporates well-known pedagogical resources, including Ted Reed’s Progressive Steps to Syncopation, George Stone’s Stick Control, and Gary Chester’s The New Breed. Participants will also explore the use of hi-hats, foot-controlled tambourines, cowbells, and blocks, enhancing coordination and rhythmic independence. Exercises inspired by Tom’s mentor, Joe Morello, along with rudimental techniques, are applied to demystify world percussion for Western musicians. Much of this material is featured in Tom’s acclaimed book/DVD set An American Approach to World Percussion, published by Alfred Music. (PDF worksheets available upon request.)

Clinic Topic: Combining Digital Looping with Live Performance

This innovative clinic offers a deep dive into Tom Teasley’s solo looping performances, which have captivated audiences worldwide. Digital looping, the real-time recording and layering of musical phrases, allows Tom to create the rich texture of a full ensemble using just his own performance. In this workshop, Tom shares his creative process, demonstrating how he builds orchestration, texture, and arrangements through the interplay of ancient percussion, electronic instruments, wind instruments, and the human voice.

Participants gain insight into both the artistic and technical aspects of looping, including the mechanics of producing clean, effective loops and the musical strategies for constructing compelling performances. Though often presented to percussionists, the principles Tom explores are universally applicable to any instrumentalist interested in expanding their sonic palette through digital looping technology.

To find out more about Tom’s work as an educator contact us anytime. We are glad to answer all of your questions and can send you additional information on request. If you are interested in booking, please make sure to send us as much information as possible about your event.

02 | PRivate Instruction with Tom

Explore, Create, and Excel in Global Percussion Techniques

Drum! Magazine 2016 World Percussionist of the Year! Tom Teasley offers personalized private instruction both in his newly renovated, state-of-the-art studio and online via Skype, reaching students across the U.S., Europe, and Asia.

Studio & Instrumentation

Tom’s studio is fully equipped for a broad spectrum of percussion instruction, featuring a drum set, hybrid kits combining traditional hand percussion with cutting-edge digital technology, electronic drums, looping devices, marimba, MalletKAT, congas, bongos, timbales, orchestral percussion, and more. This versatile environment supports a wide range of styles and techniques, from jazz and classical to world and experimental percussion.

Teaching Methodology

Tom’s teaching blends Western percussion traditions with global rhythmic concepts, a method documented in his acclaimed Alfred Music book/DVD, An American Approach to World Percussion, nominated for “Best Drum Book of 2016” by Drum! Magazine. His approach draws from over 25 years of experience, including his conservatory training, mentorship under jazz legend Joe Morello, extensive international touring as a cultural envoy for the U.S. Department of State, and a career as a solo performer, collaborator, and educator. Tom was awarded the 2016 Drummie Award for “World Percussionist” and named first runner-up for “Percussion Clinician.”

Private instruction with Tom Teasley offers a unique and highly customized learning experience tailored to each student’s goals and interests. Whether you’re looking to deepen your understanding of world rhythms, refine your drum set technique, explore the creative possibilities of live looping, or develop greater fluency with hybrid percussion setups, Tom provides expert guidance grounded in real-world performance and recording experience. His lessons are interactive, inspiring, and designed to challenge students to grow as musicians and creative thinkers. With an emphasis on musicality, versatility, and personal expression, Tom’s approach helps students build a strong technical foundation while encouraging them to develop their own artistic voice.

Tom works with students of all levels, from beginners to professionals, fostering creativity, versatility, and technical mastery. His former and current students include Kush Abadey (Wallace Roney, Chris Potter), Eric Valentine (Gerald Albright, Erykah Badu, Stevie Wonder), Sam Shahin (Naughty Professor), Adam Green (U.S. Air Force Band, National Symphony), Nasar Abadey (Amiri Baraka, Ella Fitzgerald, Professor at Peabody Conservatory), Randy Gorman (U.S. Air Force Band, Broadway’s Blast!), and Dr. Kenneth Dickerson (Collaboration Jazz Ensemble, DC Public Schools). Many have gone on to perform internationally and teach at the highest levels.

To find out more about Tom’s work as an educator contact us anytime. We are glad to answer all of your questions and can send you additional information on request. If you are interested in taking lessons, please make sure to send us as much information as possible about your playing and goals.

03 | Educational School Assembly & Family Concerts

Engaging Live Percussion Programs for Students and Families

Award-Winning World Percussionist | Engaging, Interactive, Multicultural Programs for All Ages

Tom Teasley’s dynamic school assemblies and family concerts are immersive, interactive experiences that transcend music alone—connecting students and audiences to history, geography, world cultures, and technology through rhythm. As an award-winning teaching artist and cultural envoy for the U.S. Department of State, Tom brings stories and sounds from his extensive international collaborations to life. These programs feature instruments from every corner of the globe, blending ancient traditions with cutting-edge technology like digital looping, creating a one-of-a-kind, global sonic journey. Ideal for all ages, Tom’s performances engage participants through live demonstrations, interactive rhythm exercises, and cultural storytelling, making powerful connections to math, science, geography, and social studies.

With a deep commitment to education and community, Tom’s programs have been featured in schools, festivals, and cultural events worldwide. His experience spans hundreds of school visits, as well as prestigious appearances at institutions such as Eastman School of Music, Peabody Conservatory, and the China Conservatory. Each program is crafted to inspire curiosity, celebrate diversity, and demonstrate the universal language of music as a bridge between cultures. Whether in-person or virtual, Tom’s assemblies provide a meaningful and entertaining educational experience that resonates with students, families, and educators alike.

Tom is available for booking through regional organizations offering matching funds or grants, such as InterAct Story Theatre, the Virginia Commission for the Arts, and Young Audiences of Virginia. Contact Tom directly to explore opportunities for cultural envoy projects or to bring this enriching experience to your school or community. Once booked, participants will receive materials to enhance engagement, and follow-up resources are available for teachers and families.