all ages learning
Drums
From rudiments to cadences to Jazz solos to blast beats! Study the science of percussion!
more to come
Don't see the string or percussion instrument you're looking for? Info on lesons for ukulele, mandolin, Dobro, cello, viola, and more coming soon!
"... Aaron quickly saw his potential and encouraged us to get him a full-size drum kit at home. Liam was tiny behind it, but Aaron taught him how to find his way around. Over almost seven years with Aaron, Liam learned all the fundamentals and many of the finer points of drumming. But Aaron taught him something more, too. He taught Liam how to understand music..."
Jen K
Liam's motherHad my last, bittersweet lesson for a while with the best mandolin teacher on the planet, Aaron Walters. I'm all set for months of mandolin raga self study on my trip to India, which is awesome. Aaron plays an impressive number of instruments, and he knows raga thaat and bols, and oh my! He's simply the best. No matter what your skill level, and what instrument you play, if you want to learn how to play raga with it, or even if you don't, he's your man. Plus, he's super chill and just a fantastic human being. Thank you, Aaronji, for a most sublime learning experience these past few months. I'm going to miss you! You truly do rock! <3
Victor Westbrook
Adult mandolin and Indian music theory studentMy daughter, Lauren, has been a student of Aaron's since she was 9. She's now 16 and still thriving and growing as a musician! She started with the acoustic guitar and fairly quickly moved to the electric guitar. Aaron helped her make the transition seamlessly with his positive teaching and many years of experience. While Lauren can be introverted and get bored easily, Aaron has the knowledge, expertise, and enthusiasm as a teacher to keep her challenged and excited about playing guitar. Lauren has also been a part of two different bands with Aaron as their instructor. These were very rewarding experiences for Lauren, both musically and socially. Additionally, Lauren has experimented with other instruments throughout the years. Aaron was able to help her get started although in the end she always stuck with guitar! I doubt there is an instrument that Aaron doesn't know how to play and teach! Lastly, Aaron has become a mentor and someone Lauren respects tremendously and someone I am truly grateful for, as a parent. No matter what else has happened in life...the covid years, teenage years, school, etc. her music lessons and Aaron have been something she could always look forward to and derive self-confidence, a sense of accomplishment, and joy from. We are so appreciative of the many years of dedication and enthusiasm that Aaron has put and continues to put in his teaching.
Kelly Hjelle
Lauran's momAbout Aaron Walters
Aaron Walters is a multi-instrumentalist and music educator from Seattle, WA. He has toured all over the US, Canada, Mexico, Europe, and Japan as the guitarist for Seattle rock band Akimbo and member of other groups. Since 2005, Aaron has given private lessons to hundreds of students, young and old. Having studied with some of the finest teachers in the country Aaron has developed his expertise in the playing of string and percussion instruments and lives to share his knowledge and passion with his students. Aaron now shares that knowledge and passion with growing musicians in the greater Portland area. Is Aaron the right teacher for you? Get in touch below and find out!
GET IN TOUCH!
Ask a question or schedule a lesson -- I'd love to hear from you.
aaron@portlandmusicinstruction.com