If there's one thing Rick loves more than drums, it's people. I've been taking lessons here for nearly a decade and Rick is such an awesome teacher. If you look at my previous reviews, Rick has far surpassed the instruction I've received from some of the top musical talent in San Diego across multiple disciplines. What's even more awesome than his teaching, his method book series, and his studio, is Rick, the person. He's always so positive with a "no bad days" vibe and he has such a way of connecting with people and making you comfortable and excited to learn drums. I've never heard a foul word or disparaging comments about another person, ever, and I've spent hundreds of hours with Rick at this point. If you're wanting to learn drums in the most fun way possible (by playing along with songs you know and love) and you want to do it quickly without it feeling like a chore, Rick is your guy. He's technically proficient in what seems like every musical style you can think of, from punk, metal, jazz, blues, country, swing, etc there is nothing he can't play or teach. Do yourself a favor, stop your search for drum lessons here and call Rick immediately. You will absolutely not regret it. read more

I took lessons for just under two months before deciding to go a different direction but I am grateful for the experience. I really like the location. The building itself is very clean and secure. Rick is the second teacher I've worked with at this building and I would definitely recommend exploring all different options. I purchased three of his books. As a former teacher with a Master's Degree in Curriculum Writing from SDSU's school of Education I can appreciate all time that went into creating them. As a neurodivergent person his space was just a little overwhelming for my learning style but I can appreciate all the things he had in there. I would do better in a cozier, smaller setting. I picked up on a bit of competitiveness between instructors and as a former teacher that surprised me. I expected more professionalism when talking about fellow teachers, especially from a veteran teacher, but my experience has been in public education, perhaps the music world is different. When I said that I would be going a different direction he replied right away and was very gracious about it. Still looking for a drum teacher but I'm grateful for the experience. I learned quite a bit in the short time I was there. read more

Rick Stojak's Drum Studio - Musicians Near Me - San Diego, California

I've been taking lessons from Rick for the past 4 months now, it's always such a pleasure! He comes with many decades of experience in drumming and there's no limits to how much you can learn about every detail from him. He has a very well structured teaching program and you can see yourself progressing well and quickly! Would highly recommend Rick to anyone! read more

I just had to respond to the most recent review from someone who took lessons with Rick for 2 months and gave him a 2-star rating. My experience with Rick as my drum teacher for the past 9 years is 100% positive EVERY SINGLE TIME I ENTER THE STUDIO. Rick's studio is so cool, with 3 different drum kits set up, as well as congas and a snare station... all decked with lights! It is such a fabulous vibe to walk into, sit down at the kit, and just start to drum. He is a kind, compassionate, empathetic, and energetic teacher. Whether you are new to the drums or have been drumming for years - Rick is the teacher for you. read more

I didn't stay in classes for long since my kids' schedule changed making me unable to make lessons. But the few weeks I went was great. I learned a lot in just a few weeks. Rick was always eager to teach and happy to see his students. If I decide to take up drumming again, it would definitely be with Rick. read more

Rick is amazing. He's not only a great teacher, he is also extremely knowledgeable and passionate about percussion. His studio is incredible and his setup uses lots of different equipment that gives you the ability to learn by playing, watching, and listening to music all at the same time. You must try it because the experience is truly unique. If you want to learn how to play the drums or improve as a drummer, going to Rick's studio is going to give you more energy and more excitement than anywhere else. Rick has materials and lessons that will help you with every kind of style and every kind of technique imaginable. He has double kick guides and lessons that are not only not repetitive and really fun but also help you strengthen your skills with your hands as well as both of your feet at the same time. If you are a rock or metal drummer, and you want to improve your double kick speed, or you just want to play jazz country, or reggae, or anything else Rick has it all to help you improve in any area you need to while keeping it fun and engaging at the same time!! read more

Love Rick and his studio. My daughter wants to be a music producer and wanted to learn more about drums so she can write for it better. Rick's knowledge and energy make learning fun. She is really progressing quickly and wants to practice. Highly recommended! read more

If you are looking to take drum lessons, look no further! I have been studying with Rick for 9, going on 10 years and let me tell you, he is as good as it gets when it comes to learning the drums! Rick always has a very positive, fun, and motivating energy. When I first started taking lessons with Rick, he taught me the basics of drumming and the importance of learning how to read drum charts/music which has ultimately changed my life as a musician. Rick's drum books cover every possible groove, fill, genre, etc. you could ever imagine and he works on writing new music every day... THAT is dedication. When I realized I wanted to make a living as a drummer, Rick began to give me extremely valuable advice in the music industry coming from his personal experience. Thanks to Rick, I have been able to become the full time session drummer I have always dreamed of. No matter what skill level you are at, you will not regret taking lessons with Rick!! read more

Most positive and encouraging teacher I've ever had!!!! And he literally wrote the book. The aloha is strong in Rick!!!

Rick is one of the best teacher's I've ever had, hands down. He always brings such an enthusiasm that makes drumming fun. Through our lessons he's helped me to build strong foundations that allow me to learn the songs I've always wanted to play and he always has great insights on what I should practice. I always look forward to our practices and look forward to learning more from him read more

Rick is the best of the best! I only started a few weeks ago with Rick, but had been playing drums for a couple months prior. Within those few weeks at Rick's studio, I feel like I have improved SO much! He has a great teaching style and an awesome energy that he brings to every session. If you're looking to learn from the best drum teacher, he's your guy! read more

First of all, Rick is an expert professional drummer who loves teaching drumming. Both his system of teaching and his amazing books contribute to rapid progress. Of course, one must practice, and Rick's books make this just so much fun. As if expertise and fun aren't enough, Rick's instruction is truly uplifting! This is due to his tremendous passion for drumming and his genuine, glowing, ever-present encouragement of his students. Taking a lesson is pure joy. read more

Rick is an amazing instructor, I leave every lesson inspired and at the same time realizing how much I don't know. His books are amazing and almost every question I have he has an answer for, right out of the books he has written. I was at Guitar Center picking up some goodies and I told the drum guy I was taking lessons now, he asked from who. When I told him it was Rick, he opened his eyes wide and said," Man, you got the the best instructor in San Diego". read more

Rick Stojak's Drum Studio - Musicians Near Me - San Diego, California

Before going to Rick, I was learning drum grooves by reading drum notation while listening to a metronome. One word: boring! Rick has you learning drum grooves to songs you know and love. For example, Rick annotates a core groove then lists the songs that have that core groove. For me, I learned a groove by listening to Funky Cold Medina. One word: EPIC! And, Rick is incredibly supportive, encouraging, and positive. One word: awesome!!! Can't wait for my next lesson! read more

Rick is, just, awesome! My son's drum teacher teaches with Rick's Lesson Books and they are amazing. You learn QUICKLY. From the first book on mastering the basics my son went from start to WOW. Needed to ask a question on ordering, nobody more surprised than me that he called personally! Great conversation, discussed teacher, progress, nicest guy ever. Ordered Volume 3, can't wait to see the results! Thanks, Rick! read more

If you're serious about drumming, Rick is your teacher. He is an insanely reputable, knowledgeable, and practiced drummer/teacher with decades of experience. He will teach you and reinforce proper techniques, habits, foundations, and practices so that you can consistently progress session after session. He will be able to assess your rate of progression and cater accordingly. Rick will help build you as a drummer from the ground-up, ensuring nothing is ever compromised. I cannot recommend him enough if you are looking for a drum teacher! read more

Rick has a vast knowledge of drumming that covers many genres and he has a passion to share that knowledge with others. He comes off very professional, cool and shows an immense amount of positive reinforcement and patience. His teaching space is every drummers dream that is filled with plenty of literature and most of it was written by him! His books are easy to get in to, are a ton of fun and have a great flow to them that make sense. If you are hesitant about getting a drum lesson from a teacher I could not recommend Rick more. Give him a chance to take your drumming to the next level! read more

Rick is a phenomenal drum teacher! From the very first phone call we had to schedule lessons, I could tell he was just the coolest person. Rick's passion for both drums and teaching is felt through his warmth and excitement. Lessons are so fun and never last long enough. He's also written high-quality, intuitive, practice books with material that corresponds to songs everyone knows, and has curated youtube playlists to practice with. I'm blown away by how much I've picked up in just two lessons with him, and can't wait for more! It's clear he loves what he does. I'd recommend Rick to anyone in San Diego looking to learn drums! read more

Rick is an engaging, thoughtful and amazing drum teacher! He brings a huge level of energy and passion to each lesson, and most importantly, makes it fun and awesome. His knowledge of drumming is vast and includes many genres, which allows him to tailor each lesson with something old and something new for aspiring drummers such as my son. Rick is the best instructor in San Diego! read more

I've been a student of Rick's since July, 2016, and here's my story: I took lessons for a short period of time in high school and then went off on my own before quitting drumming all together for several years. After moving to San Diego, I eventually decided that I wanted to pursue it again, and that's when I found Rick. When I began taking lessons with him, I was extremely limited in my ability and technique; my timing was horrible and I could barely read music. The 9 months I've studied under Rick have literally been life-changing. I've progressed so much in each of the above-mentioned areas, as well as in my comprehension of music and rhythm, that I now feel such a potential for myself that I don't believe would have been possible had I stayed going the self-study route. Rick got me my first gig by referring me for one he was unavailable for - it included 5 paid performances and provided me with an incredible opportunity to gain valuable experience performing live. In the months since that first gig, I've joined a local rockabilly band, and Rick's guidance along the way has been invaluable! If you're into psychobilly or rockabilly, there is no one better qualified to learn from than Rick - he's a veteran of the psychobilly scene, having played in one of the early American psychobilly bands, touring with some of the biggest names. But, no matter your skill level or the style of music you prefer, I know first-hand that Rick can help you achieve your goals in drumming! Through his knowledge, experience, and thoughtful instruction, Rick will become more of a music mentor than simply a teacher, should you choose to stick with him! read more

Rick Stojak's Drum Studio - Finally rockin' behind a kit on stage, & all thanks to my time at Rick Stojak's Drum Studio! - Musicians Near Me - San Diego, California

I've been working with Rick since the beginning of 2017, and he has absolutely taken my playing to the next level. Not only is he a ridiculously talented drummer, he is one of the most passionate educators I know. He's written three instructional books himself, which are worth their weight in gold when it comes to developing competency in a broad range of musical styles. Rick never stops writing original material for his students to work on, which is so incredibly rare in a music teacher. I leave each session feeling like I've learned something new, and feel energized to work on material at home. While I've always gone to his studio for in-person lessons, I've also started taking Skype lessons with him while California is under lockdown for COVID-19. His Skype sessions are outstanding, and I highly recommend working with him virtually while we're all under quarantine (or even anytime after)! read more

I met Rick at Namm and we talked about his book ( how to build a drum groove). It's basically like Stick Control for Drum-set! I plan on using it for myself and my students as well. If you're in the So Cal San Diego area, give him a try! read more

I am a beginning drummer. Or WAS a beginning drummer 6 months ago. I decided to fulfill my dream of learning to drum at age 60! I luckily started with Rick as my instructor. I literally had to start at the beginning...learning to read music, how to hold drumsticks, learning music theory. By lesson one, I was actually playing the drums to a rock song. He has a great way of teaching, his book makes it easy and fun. I look forward to every lesson, and always learn so much. He is such a good instructor, so positive, makes every lesson fun. His studio is absolutely AMAZING, it is so much fun to drum there. I am hooked and could never have progressed to the point I am at without his knowledge and teaching method. I look forward to practicing and actually jamming to the music I love. It is a blast, and I am so lucky to be learning from an absolute pro. Highly recommended! read more

I have been taking drum lessons from Rick for a year now. This is the only place to take lessons you guys. I have learned things I hadn't even thought of. I have been drumming for years but in a super fun and relaxing atmosphere I have jumped a couple of levels for sure. Rick is a super talented drummer who will help you find even more ways to make drumming fun. Right now I am taking lessons through FaceTime which is really turning out to be a blast. If you are a drummer or even thinking about drumming this is the place you want to be. Steve Davis. Drummer for Clear Blue Skies read more

My daughter started 2 years ago as a 7th grader with no experience playing drums. He was able to see that she has a passion for drumming. Rick has always been supportive and has been able to get her out of her shell. She was able to play successfully in the 7th grade Swing Band and 8th grade Jazz Band. She is now a freshmen in high school and has so much more confidence in playing the drums, she will be playing in her high schools marching band and jazz band. Rick is an amazing teacher who guides her in learning various styles of music! He helps her reach her goals as a drummer. He's always upbeat and encouraging. Rick will tailor his lessons to your needs. We highly recommend Rick Stojak! You will Rock On! read more

I had a great lesson with Rick. I am going to take more but unfortunately work gets in the way. Fun to work with and made drumming easier to understand. Great guy. read more

I felt the need to update a previous review as over the last couple of weeks I've had the opportunity to jam with some people that I haven't jammed with since before taking lessons with Rick, which was a few years before Covid. I have to give kudos to Rick as I was given compliments where I was told that they could tell that I had been taking lessons and really progressing with my playing, and I had already been told by these dudes the "I get it.". I have to say, I noticed the difference in my playing also. I was doing things while playing that I had never done before and really enjoying how I was sounding. No matter your level of playing experience, Rick's teaching will broaden your horizons, add spice to your playing, and take you to new levels of playing. Thanks Rick! Always a pleasure working with you. read more

I was super hesitant to start drum lessons because I had little prior experience, but learning from Rick made everything so much easier to manage, and I ended up having a blast! I look forward to my drum lesson every week because it is usually the highlight! He was super helpful when I was overwhelmed with finding the right drum kit, and he's always been kind and understanding about everything. :) read more

Rick loves showing and recommending drum kits and we spent couple lessons on that(of course, all paid lessons). He asked me if it was ok because choosing the right drum kits are important. At the first I was fine with it. He seemed really enthusiastic and wanting to help, just like all the other reviews said here on Yelp, I really trusted him. Rick recommend his family friend who works at Guitar Centre, saying he can connect me with him, and if any questions or needing any help I can call Rick himself he'd love to help me. At this point, I'm still really happy with Rick and even brought in a friend to take lessons with him. However, he's attitude is completely different in-class VS outside-class. What happened after? As I'm selecting drum kits, there was only 2 times I needed to call him for questions. First time he texted he was in an appointment, I called him hours later, did not respond, did not answer. I thought maybe he's just busy. Second time when I had questions and needed to call him, same thing, did not respond, did not answer. Called him again also wanting to change the appointment time, hanged up on me. No explanation. Only texted me a drum head picture like that would solve my problems.. Wow are students really troubles to you outside of class? The only times we called is when he needed to workout his schedule or confirming appointments, and the first time when I found him on Yelp and interested in his lessons. Not trying to offend anyone here, those are just my experience, what I value is sincerity. Maybe he's a good drum teacher for others, but not for me. read more

Today I had my first drum lesson with Rick. I am a 58 yr old newbie. It was comfortable, informative, and super fun. I'm excited to practice, and I know what to do. As a golf teaching professional, I live in the world of training. Rick is really good. Period. read more

Short Version: Rick is amazing and if you're looking for drum lessons, look no further!! Long Version: I started playing the drums in February 2013 in San Jose, CA. My former drum instructor was good, but he started with the basics and was very focused on technique. I grew bored and found myself canceling lessons frequently. One day, I asked him if I could learn a drum intro to a specific song and he said not yet. I went home and researched the drum tabs and taught myself. In my opinion, when a you turn a student down and they then need to teach themselves is just wrong. I was pretty disappointed and constantly struggled and felt like I made no progress. I moved to San Diego in October 2014 and began lessons with Rick. My very first lesson he asked me what type of music I liked. When I said Red Hot Chili Peppers, he put one of their songs on and said to "just jam" to the song. I was completely shocked and excited at the same time. Rick played on a set next to me and I watched him the whole time and was starting to pick it up. It was so exciting to me as a new drummer to just dive into it like that. Rick has the most unique teaching strategies and they completely work. If I show interest in one thing, he will pause where we are at and help me progress in that area of interest. I have grown so incredibly much as a drummer in less than a year with Rick's lessons. He is always enthusiastic and "ready to rock!" I strongly encourage anyone who is considering to become a fellow drummer to take lessons with Rick - you will NOT regret it!! read more

I have drummed with Rick for almost 5 years and have never left a lesson disappointed. Rick is a true educator and friend who goes the extra mile to make sure your lessons are informative and challenging, but also, incredibly fun and rewarding. I imagined that taking drum lessons having never played an instrument would be defeating and intimidating. The experience is NOTHING like that. You walk away feeling like a million bucks, not to mention an incredibly gifted rock star. Rick is affordable, easy to work with and incredibly reliable. He is always on time (incredibly punctual for a musician ;) and checks in with you to make sure your schedule is sound. Not only is he an incredible drummer himself, his facility is clean, current and a drummer's virtual paradise. Two kits // side by side // with a TON of toms and cymbals, you'll feel like Neil Peart in no time. I cannot recommend this studio enough! read more

As a beginner drummer starting for the first time I felt super intimidated before reaching out to Rick. Rick makes learning the drums super fun & easy. I've never enjoyed picking up a new instrument so much! He's super upbeat, patient and easy to learn from. You'll enjoy and look forward to every session! read more

Rick has a great spirit and loves teaching!! He's been drumming for almost forty years and is proficient in all styles and various percussive instruments. He can teach you how to rock the house, bang on congas and bongos and read music as well as traditional drumming techniques for marching band and orchestra. Rick is very sophisticated and knowledgeable in instrument setups and special techniques utilized in studio drumming that differ from stage and concert drumming. Rick also worked in corporate marketing for many years so he understands the business of music and has great advice for anyone who just wants to play with friends around town or become a full scale professional musician! P.S. Drums will change your life. read more

My son has been coming to Rick for about 6 months now and has loved every lesson! Rick customizes the lesson to my son and his ability, plays music that my son is interested in to keep him from becoming complacent, all while challenging him during each lesson! To see how fast my son has progressed in a very short time, just adds to the value. I would recommend Rick to any level of drummer that is interested. read more

Rick is a fantastic teacher that will make sure you keep making progress while having fun and staying motivated. I've been going to classes with him for a couple months, and it's always the highlight of my week! read more

I have been taking drumset lessons from Rick for few months now. One of my favorite parts of my lessons, besides Rick himself, are the books he has written. They are organized, easy to follow, and fun. Because I have some drumming experience already I am in Books 2 and 3, but his exercises expand my creativity and challenge my thinking and playing. I love in Book 2 how he has playlists for you to practice to. Taking lessons from Rick is 100% exactly what I needed right now to improve my versatility as rock drummer..and I am looking forward to other genres. We are also planning to incorporate electronic triggers to the playing. In summary, Rick and his books are so worth the time! Thank you, Rick. read more

My son has been taking a basic music class at his elementary school. He really took to the drums and became "hooked." My wife found Mr. Stojak's studio in the Clairemont Area, that came with OUTSTANDING reviews. The studio facility is really kept up with cleanliness (ie. restroom). We took our son to Mr. Stojak's and he became instantly addicted. Now, my son can't wait for his lessons, which he looks forward to every week. My son has became a good drummer, because of Mr Stojak's teaching. Mr. Stojak focuses on learning to read music first then the drumming. Mr. Stojak is very knowledgeable with various instruments and is patient with new drummers. He is very personable and professional. I look forward to continuing my son's lessons at Mr. Stojak's studio. read more

Rick is a phenomenal drum teacher. He provides his expertise with foundational/technical work & yet matches it with pure enthusiasm to explore outside of the box. He provides an experience for all levels to feel the stoke. Lessons leave me feeling encouraged, intrigued to learn more, & reminded that I love the drums. read more

I've taken lessons here for the past few months, and I can't speak highly enough of Rick. We manage to pack in so much during our sessions. Rick is a really great teacher and manages to bring a ton of energy to the lessons. I honestly have so much fun during our time. He can help you with any style of playing you want to want to learn about and answer any questions from technique to gear. Great lessons. read more