Holly C

Parent

My son Evan (11 years old) has had the priviledge of being a drumming student of Jeff’s for the past year and a half, and I am completely blown away by what he has been able to accomplish. Both my husband and myself can not claim any musical talent ourselves, so we entered this arena totally blind. When Evan talked for months about wanting to start drumming I had no idea where to start and as a result, dragged my heels. It was serendipity months later when a friend mentioned that her son took lessons from Jeff. She could not have given a more glowing recommendation. All the pieces to the puzzle fell in my lap and I gave him a call.

Jeff embodies everything that you could possibly want in a teacher, mentor, and positive influence for your child. His personal drumming skill is so crazy good and is very inspiring for his students. Maybe even more importantly, it’s Jeff’s infectiously upbeat personality and genuine enthusiasm for the art of drumming that he brings to every single lesson that keep you coming back for more.

As parents, we want to surround our kids with great people who help to train and coach them in their journey to pursue their dreams. I’m happy to say I could not have found a better match! – Holly C

Eric L

Parent / Musician

After moving, one of the first things I sought to do was to find a new drum teacher for my 6‐year old son. Prior to our move, my son had studied with three highly‐regarded teachers so we both have experienced world‐class instruction. Being a professional musician myself, I have spent decades trying to distill my playing and teaching into coherent, meaningful moments. This, in my opinion, is key. Technique is a means to an end, a tool to help musicians make music. Jeff Samataro understand this and communicates this with incredible ease. He is easily among the best teachers I have ever encountered on any instrument. His demeanor is sincere, he has an expert knowledge of his instrument’s history and he somehow manages to consistently raise the bar while simultaneously being encouraging, engaging and upbeat. My son has made incredible strides while studying with Jeff. I could not recommend him more highly.
Eric Lindberg ‐ Music Director for Buddy Miles

Kristen B

Parent

Our son Owen expressed interest in playing the drums over a year ago. Jeff was highly recommended to us and from day one there was a connection. Owen loves how Jeff is able to compare music to everyday things which makes the learning process that much more enjoyable. Owen goes to practice with a smile and leaves with one, excited about what he just learned. Jeff is patient and you can tell how much he enjoys passing on his talent and love for the drums. I look forward to seeing what the next few years bring with Jeff teaching Owen all he can. – Kristen B

Pete M

Parent

Jeff is a talented and gifted musician who also has a passion for teaching: A powerful combination that thanks to Jeff, has allowed my son Cameron to progress from a rudimentary, awkward beginner to a confident percussionist in the school band. Entering his 3rd year of lessons with Jeff, Cameron has not only progressed in all aspects of his technique and musicianship, he has also developed a passion and enthusiasm for drums, thanks to Jeff’s teaching, guidance and unending patience. It’s been a joy to watch Cameron grow as a musician thanks to the dedication and ability of his teacher, Jeff Samataro! – Pete M

More…

 

Jeff was my son’s instructor for 11 years. He is by far the best instructor I’ve ever worked with. He works at his student's level and is an incredibly positive, uplifting instructor. I was happy to have him as a role model for my son for all these years. My son’s skill grew exponentially over the years! So two points: Jeff is an amazing drummer and instructor. You won’t find a better match if you’re looking to take lessons.

- Shannon D

 
 

I have taken private drum lessons with Jeff for 5 years and my experience has been amazing! With his guidance I went from a mediocre drummer to a top state musician. He has knowledge in all styles, Jazz, Funk, Rock and Marching Percussion. Jeff has been a great teacher but a better mentor and role model. Best teacher I have ever had!

- Ben A

 

You won’t find a better teacher than Jeff. My son started at 8 years old with Jeff and accelerated his skills well beyond expectation. Besides being a great teacher, Jeff is a great person and really connects with his students. You will have the best experience with Jeff!!

- Dave P

 

I took lessons with Jeff for 4 years from 2018-2022. He is an engaging, fun, and very smart teacher, and he helped me shape both my drumming and my musicianship in huge ways. I highly recommend him to any drummer looking to improve regardless of their skill level or ability! His patience and focus on growth through disciplined practice and routines truly set him aside in the world of private drum instructors.

- Miles M

 

Jeff has been an important part of our week during our time with him. He quickly understood what my son needed in drumming instruction and was able to direct him in all his complicated tastes of music. I watched my son, with slightly quick hands and horrible time and endurance, grow into a young wizard of tricks, forming a band within a year…a band that is rattling the nails loose in my house.

- Shannon S

 

Jeff is an incredible drum instructor. You can tell that he takes care and patience in how he describes and introduces new concepts. He is flexible in such a way that if you don't get it the first time, he will find new ways of describing it until it clicks. I was a newcomer to drumming with no formal instruction beforehand, and I noticed a considerable improvement in my drumming since taking lessons with Jeff. He curated our classes around the skills that I wanted to develop and helped me narrow my focus regarding my musical goals, which made my lessons and drumming in general an especially enriching experience. He has an attitude toward musical instruction that the student should firstly enjoy playing their instrument, and that having fun on the drums should be a necessary part of the practice. You can tell that he has a true love for his craft and he absolutely transfers that passion to his students. Thank you Jeff!

- Kate L

 

My son started drum lessons with Jeff in 2022. Jeff quickly became one of his favorite people; Jeff really connected with my son and helped grow his confidence both in drumming and in life. Jeo is now a drum fanatic and he is quite good, and that is all thanks to Jeff. My son already misses him terribly but he understands we have to share Jeff’s talent and kindness with the world. Would recommend him a million tomes over!

-Melissa J

 

Jeff was my son's drum teacher for about 2 years, and my son absolutely loved his lessons with him. Jeff was always kind and supportive and also lots of fun. He was also great about scheduling make-up lessons with us when we knew in advance that we'd have to skip a lesson for a school event or travel. A great teacher and a super nice guy!

- Amy E

 

I’m thrilled with the progress my 9-year-old son has made under the guidance of his drum teacher. This teacher's expertise and enthusiasm created a vibrant learning environment that captivated my son's interest from the start. With a blend of patience, creativity, and clear instruction, they tailored lessons to fit my son's individual needs and musical tastes. The teacher's ability to make each session engaging and fun has not only improved my son's drumming skills but also boosted his confidence and love for music. Their dedication and skill in fostering a young musician's growth are truly commendable. Highly recommended for any aspiring drummer!

- Leandra R

 

Jeff is a true professional. Our son Ben has been taking lessons with Jeff off and on for the past 11 years. Ben started with Jeff when he was 5 years old …and now at 16 is a very talented drummer. Jeff has taught in a manner that encourages Ben to be self motivated and to practice consistently and intentionally. In hindsight, a lot of the drum lessons from Jeff have became life lessons, leading to a very happy, healthy well rounded teenager. Ben loves playing the drums with his friends, in a band, as part of a school wide presentation, or just solo at home as a fun hobby. He has even recorded a song now available on Spotify. If you are lucky enough to have Jeff teach your children, it will be a wonderful experience. Hire Jeff, don’t wait another minute.

- Nicole L

 

I took drum lessons with Jeff for 7 years. Jeff is an amazing instructor who really took the time to get to know me. He is patient, caring, and always helped boost my confidence. When I would need certain materials for class or need to download a new song to practice, he would always let my mom and I know so that I could be prepared. I highly recommend Jeff for anyone looking to take beginner sessions or continuing drum lessons.

- Owen D

 

Jeff was recommended to my 9th grade son to further progress his skill playing the drum set. From the very first lesson, we could hear the difference in his ability. He continued to grow and improve with each session, sounding cleaner and more rhythmic as he practiced techniques he had learned from Jeff.

Jeff helped to take Carter from the beginner stage to intermediate and gave him the confidence to tryout for the All State Jazz Band in NH. He was only a freshman and preformed well, setting him up for future success.

Jeff helped turn Carter’s hobby into a passion and we couldn't be happier with the time they spent together.

- Laura M

 

Jeff Samataro is one of the best drum instructors!!! Our son Dominic took lessons with Jeff from the age of 7 until the age of 16. Jeff is patient, enthusiastic, and his encouragement makes learning the drums fun! Our son never missed a lesson and looked forward to seeing Jeff every week. His time and dedication to his students are deeply personal. I am happy to say he has become a valued mentor and friend to our family. He has more than prepared our son for all of his professional music endeavors, from live performances, open mics, gigging, busking, and placing first in the state with High Honors two year's in a row for the Allstate' festival. Jeff's love for teaching is equally matched for his love for the drums. Whether young or old, just beginning or advanced, Jeff will provide lessons anyone would look forward to!

- Jennifer C

 

“We feel so grateful to have found Jeff Samataro as our son’s drum instructor! Jeff is an exceptionally talented musician. His enthusiastic teaching style and laid- back personality makes it the perfect classroom environment to learn. As parent’s, we greatly appreciate his patience and flexibility. Often, he adapts his teaching approach to meet our son’s interest and ability. It has been a wonderful experience to observe the sessions and watch in our son’s growth. He looks forward to all his weekly lessons. Anyone who is seeking an instructor for themselves or for their child would be fortunate to learn from him. He has been a great mentor and positive role model. We look forward to our continued relationship with Jeff far into the future.”

– Jennifer and Dominic C.

 

“My son started drum lessons with Jeff just after Christmas last year, having received a very basic kit from Santa. We weren’t sure how interested he really was in learning, but he took to Jeff (and the drums) immediately. It’s easy to do that when your teacher is interested in you as a person (not just as his student), makes the lessons fun, and is able to explain things at a 7yo level. Jeff’s warm, friendly, and laid back nature makes our son look forward to his weekly lesson, and his skill as a drummer and teacher have helped bring him along much further than we could have imagined in a relatively short time. We are so fortunate to have found him!”

— Jenn V.

 

“My son started lessons with Jeff when he was 7. Three years later, I couldn’t be more pleased. Jeff is an amazing teacher. Mason has already learned so much. Jeff has a knack for teaching and never talks down to Mason. Mason loves his lessons and never complains about going or practicing. He leaves his lessons feelings empowered and knowledgeable-ready to put into use what he just learned. As a parent, I am amazed at how far he has come in a short matter of time. Jeff’s ability to relate to Mason and explain concepts in a way he can understand has made all the difference. I highly recommend Jeff as an instructor.”

-Sharon D.

 

Though I have only been studying with Jeff for a few months, he has already helped me to improve my technique immensely. Jeff has helped me to be a smarter performer and to think more like a musician”

– Aaron B

 

“If you’re looking for a drum instructor, who’s passionate about drumming, enthusiastic about teaching, and knowledgeable of the history of drumming, Jeff’s your guy. Not only is he an amazing drummer, he is truly a gifted teacher. Call him!”

– Paul P

 

“My son, Kris has been going to see Jeff for almost a year and he absolutely loves taking drum lessons with Jeff. Jeff is very talented and very patient and has a unique way of explaining drumming to kids. He has a great personality and has great rapport. Kris is doing so well, so quickly that I attribute that to the teachings of Jeff. Kris’s family is very impressed with his progress and we owe that to Jeff. I highly recommend Jeff as a drum teacher".”

– Jennifer B

 

“Jeff is not only a talented drummer, he is an intelligent and passionate teacher. I find lots of private instructors are good at their craft but can’t teach a beginner how to get started or an advanced student how to reach that next level. Jeff does that and more! He guides you through step-by-step how to practice on your own and focus your skills during lessons. He listens patiently and offers appropriate guidance when a student is in need. His strong musical knowledge is apparent in responding to difficult questions with both in-depth feedback and a sense of humor. I would highly recommend him to all students, beginner to advanced. His diligence and professionalism make him the perfect match for any student.”

- David Newsam - Assistant Professor at Berklee College of Music

 

I met Jeff after acquiring a drum kiat and having a life long desire to learn to play drums. s an adult student with absolutely zero knowledge about playing any instrument, I had quite a bit of anxiety! After my first lesson, I knew I had picked the right teacher for me! First and foremost he made me feel comfortable, never passing judgment on my ability (or lack there of). He always encourages me to challenge myself and is truly excited for me when I finally “get it”!
I am learning so much and having a blast doing it.
He is a phenomenal drummer with so much knowledge to share. He is clearly passionate about his music and teaching! I would recommend Jeff hands down to anyone who wants to learn from a true professional! Thanks Jeff!

- Kim M

 

I took lessons with Jeff for upwards of 10 years. I grew up with drumming, and he is the only reason I was able to improve as much as I did. Jeff is an amazing drummer and an even better teacher. I highly recommend his services.

- Mason D

 

Jeff is a great instructor. He’s helped me build my confidence in playing the drums and has been instrumental in me feeling comfortable both in and out of my comfort zone. Jeff has guided me in mastering proper drum technique, helping me to break bad habits and ensuring faster, more effective progress. Jeff also gave me systems to play whatever I want or need to play. Highly recommended!

- Dave C

 

Amazing teacher first off. When I started with Jeff I was not the greatest drummer in the world but Jeff truly pushed me and wanted to become a better drummer. I learned so much from my time with him. He got me to start improvising and getting my kick up to speed with my hands. Amazing teacher.

- Hudson S

 

Jeff taught my son drum lessons for 5 years. Over that time period Jeff was not only his drum teacher but became a mentor and confidant. Jeff is one of those really special people who truly listens and cares about his students both as a musician and as a person. He was “ part of my village” that helped raise my son.

- Ruth A

 

Jeff is an excellent musician and educator. His students always scored very well on all of our All-State and Jazz All-State auditions. On a personal side Jeff also taught my daughter percussion. He always kept her engaged and on the right track to musical success. There are very few instructors out there who are great musicainas and great people all at the same time, and Jeff qualifies as both of these things!

- Gabe C

 

We found Jeff a few years ago and as
I tell people, we won the drum teacher lottery. Jeff has exceeded all our expectations. He is so patient and keeps my son engaged. My son looks forward to his lesson every week. I would recommend Jeff over and over again. You will not be disappointed!

-Kathryn V

 

Jeff is a true professional. Our son Ben has been taking lessons with Jeff off and on for the past 11 years. Ben started with Jeff when he was 5 years old …and now at 16 is a very talented drummer. Jeff has taught in a manner that encourages Ben to be self motivated and to practice consistently and intentionally. In hindsight, a lot of the drum lessons from Jeff have became life lessons, leading to a very happy, healthy well rounded teenager. Ben loves playing the drums with his friends, in a band, as part of a school wide presentation, or just solo at home as a fun hobby. He has even recorded a song now available on Spotify. If you are lucky enough to have Jeff teach your children, it will be a wonderful experience. Hire Jeff, don’t wait another minute.

- Nicole L

 

Jeff is top notch, hands down the most incredible drum instructor! I have been taking lessons with Jeff for 2.5 years now and have learned so much. Jeff helps you learn at your own pace and adapts to your preferred learning style which I’ve always appreciated. Jeff is patient, incredibly talented and fun to work with. He may even throw in a good dad joke or 2 if you’re lucky! 10/10 would recommend!!

-Jeanne J

 

Jeff is a great teacher. He helped.me unlearn bad habits and improved my drumming immensely.
He is excellent at teaching basic drum techniques, efficient stick work and theory.
I fully recommend Jeff.

- Scott W

 

Jeff taught my daughter Jamie drum lessons for over a year. We were so lucky to get recommended to him by many parents in our band community. Jeff made such an impact on my daughter’s playing ability that she was able to make the drum-line in her high school band in a very short time with his guidance. He inspired a further love of percussion in her, and she is now part of a jazz ensemble too. He is truly an inspiring and amazing teacher!

- Jodie N

 

Jeff is a pro player. But more importantly, he is a musician that knows how critical it is to be able to communicate with other musicians at all skill levels.
If every kid starting out had a pro player as a teacher like Jeff is that talked up to them instead of talking down or copping an ego (like most others do) then we’d have a wealth of talent. Jeff knows the golden rules in music: Do the work, put in the hours, be yourself, and always be learning regardless of situation.
As all pros know, once you think you are good and start to rest on your laurels, someone better comes up and surprises you.
So always be that someone.

- Dave C

 

“I am a percussion primary music ed student at Southern NH University. I always look forward to my lessons with Jeff. He is always smiling as I walk through the door to the percussion room. He has a wide variety of things that he knows well. We work on whatever I think I need work on. I absolutely love working with Jeff. He is an amazing person and an amazing teacher. I absolutely highly recommend him.”

— David S.

 

“Jeff is amazing! My son has been taking drum lessons with Jeff for about 7 months. Ben looks forward to drum lessons each week. Jeff’s love of the drums shines through during each lesson. Jeff is patient and has a calm way about him when teaching children. He has created a stressfree, fun environment. I enjoy seeing the progress Ben has made each week.”

— Kerry L.

 

“It was luck that landed my son Josh at Jeff’s doorstep, but it’s Jeff’s excellent teaching and passion that keeps us coming back week after week. Josh was a real beginner with drumming but had experience playing other instruments. Jeff used Josh’s musical knowledge to help him quickly understand the rhythms and beats that he needed to know. Jeff is patient, flexible, laid back, kind, funny and VERY talented! His lessons are student centered and will work on whatever the student is interested in. Jeff has sent Josh video, written out beats and rhythms and spent extra time helping Josh learn difficult concepts. I whole heatedly recommend Jeff Samataro to anyone interested in learning drumming!“

-Dan S.

 

“My son has been a student of Jeff’s for about a year. In this first year Jeff has made a huge impact on my son’s love of the drums and his playing ability. Jeff is always fun and exciting and has a perfect disposition combined with patience and kindness that make’s Will look forward to every Thursday afternoon. We’re excited to see Will continue his development over the years with Jeff.”

– Mark M

 

“I’ve been working with Jeff for over a year now and I couldn’t be happier with the progress I’ve made! He is an innovative and expressive teacher with a genuine and infectious passion for drumming. He is also exceedingly patient…a quality that is comforting to a brand new drummer like me. With Jeff’s even-tempered instruction and encouragement, I have started to play full songs and I feel more confident every time I pick up the sticks. As a teacher myself, I have the utmost respect for Jeff’s technique and I am thrilled to have found an instructor who is so dedicated to his students’ success.”

-Gillian R

 

“After studying with Jeff for a semester, I’ve really rediscovered my love for percussion again. He’s really knowledgeable and makes lessons fun. I’d definitely recommend him!”

– Gabe S

 

“Jeffery Samataro is a rising star in the world of drumming and percussion education. He’s got what you need as a student: dedication patience and knowledge. Jeffery hails from a great tradition of teachers at Berklee College of Music such as Alan Dawson, Gary Chaffee, Kenwood Dennard and many others. Jeffery is dedicated to raising a brilliant new crop of musical artists in the drumming world. Jeffery Rocks!”

- Kenwood Dennard - prof. of percussion at Berklee College of Music (Formerly with Miles Davis, Quincy Jones, Sting, and Whitney Houston)

 

“Jeffrey Samataro is a past student of mine at Berklee College of Music.  I had Jeff in both classroom and private lesson situations.  I will say that in both cases, he proved to be an exemplary student.  He is a very talented drummer, who can cover many styles with both understanding and passion.  He always came to class prepared and with an open mind; ready to soak up whatever he could in order to improve his skills. Jeff is the type of student who would bring ideas, questions, and often, recorded examples to discuss and analyze.  He is inquisitive, has a real thirst for knowledge, and practices diligently, which made him easy to teach.  Jeff was a pleasure to have as a student. I believe that becoming a good teacher is a product of being a good student.  I my opinion, Jeff will make an excellent teacher.”

- Bob Tamagni - Professor Percussion Department at Berklee College of Music

Jeff is a very talented individual who has helped me succeed and view my drum set in a completely different manner. He is also just a flat out great dude!

- Andrew A

 

Great drummer and an amazing teacher, has helped a ton!


- Connor M