“Whether virtual or in person, Joe is a teacher from whom anyone would be lucky to learn - young, old, or in between. He genuinely listens to his students and cares about what they want to learn but also knows how to make proper technique and fundamentals enjoyable and un-intimidating.”

I'm extremely excited to write a letter of recommendation for Joe Gelini. I take virtual drum lessons with Joe and I have been super impressed. I was a little nervous to take lessons again as an adult, and even more nervous to do it through Facetime. But, after taking the plunge I can honestly say Joe has made me feel 110% comfortable and I look forward to our lessons every week. Even after just a few sessions, I felt a lot more knowledgeable and confident that I am on the right track for achieving my music goals. He is patient, accommodating, and very approachable. After each lesson, it is clear what I should be practicing for next time and he is always responsive if I have any questions between lessons.

Whether virtual or in person, Joe is a teacher from whom anyone would be lucky to learn - young, old, or in between. He genuinely listens to his students and cares about what they want to learn but also knows how to make proper technique and fundamentals enjoyable and un-intimidating. It also doesn't hurt, of course, that he is an incredibly talented and accomplished musician with a wide experience in tons of different styles.  I honestly doubt you will find a better music teacher than Joe!

“My youngest two sons took percussion lessons from Joe Gelini... Joe was very patient in dealing with the two different ages and skill levels. My youngest son at age 5 picked up drums quicker than my 9-year-old. By combining lessons with the two of them, Joe was able to get them to push each other further in developing their technique and skill.”

I am the mother of three sons… My youngest two sons took percussion lessons from Joe Gelini. Their ages were 9 and 5 at the time.  Joe was very patient in dealing with the two different ages and skill levels.  My youngest son at age 5 picked up drums quicker than my 9-year-old.  By combining lessons with the two of them, Joe was able to get them to push each other further in developing their technique and skill.

As my sons grew, the middle son moved on to play bass as well as drums, and my youngest continued with drums and added guitar.  Joe was able to assemble a group of young teens to have a music school band which the kids thoroughly enjoyed.  It taught them how to play with other musicians, share the spotlight, and play off of each other skills as well as the responsibility that comes with being a part of a band.  Through all of this, Joe was very patient and always available for one-on-one instruction to help my sons learn what they wanted and to push them in new directions when they did not know what they wanted.  Joe’s participation in the local music scene (both local and worldwide) and his talent and love of the craft is evident in both his performances and in his instruction of students.  Both of my sons still love to play music by The Meters.

Joe has made a huge impact on my sons and all three of them love and continue to play music though they are grown at 26, 22, and 18.  My youngest son was so influenced that he is in college at USM majoring in music education and percussion. 

I can not recommend Joe highly enough.  Because of him, my house has been filled with my kids playing music together since 2006.  This has truly been a gift beyond measure.