Jim and Student at Snare Drum Station
Below you will find testimonials and recommendations from Parents, Students and Other Educators.
From Parents
I’m very happy to write this letter for Jim Anderson. Jim has been my son Jack’s drum teacher for a year now and we are very happy with him and the results we have seen in our boy. When I sat down to write this letter, I thought of many things I could say but then thought, why don’t I ask Jack to tell me a few things about Jim? Here is what Jack had to say; “he’s very nice, he’s really funny, he’s always ready for me and has my lesson plan all thought out and ready when I get there, he’s a good drummer, and I like him.” This comes from a nine year old little boy.
As parents, we have been very happy with Jack’s progress with his drumming and we are thrilled that Jack looks forward to his weekly lessons. Jim always has a smile on his face, shows much enthusiasm for his craft and just really enjoys his students. I would recommend Jim to anyone who is interested in music and would like a fun teacher.
-Scott and Peitra Wivell, parents
Our son has been a student of Jim’s for two years now and we have been very pleased with his progress on the snare drum and drum set. Jim is very knowledgeable, patient and makes learning fun. Our son appreciates that Jim will slow down the tempo and take the time to demonstrate proper technique and will work with him until he feels confident and understands the music.
As a parent, it is very helpful to have Jim’s knowledge and input before purchasing various drums and equipment. He will suggest a variety of options that are best suited for your child’s level.
Jim also promotes various types of music outside of his lessons. He sends out newsletters and verbally informs parents and students of local area concerts or musical events. This gives his students the opportunity and exposure to all types of music that encourages them to be well rounded musicians.
My son’s most memorable experience was attending a DCI (Drum Core International) practice at Summerville High School. While we were there, we watched some of the best young drummers perform. Thanks to Jim for sharing the information of their presence here in our own county that provided us an amazing musical experience.
I would highly recommend Jim to anyone that has a child that has a desire to learn to play the drums-they will be very satisfied with the result.
-Robert & Kara Lunde, parents
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I wanted to let you know how much we appreciated you making room for Jake in your busy schedule. Your knowledge, professionalism, and instruction with Jake have been a great experience for him in the short time he has spent with you. You really opened his awareness to how much more there is to learn, and you inspired him too, he really thought you were cool!
-Shaun Elizabeth Herbst, parent
Jim is a very upbeat (any pun intended) and passionate music teacher. His knowledge and experience are evident as he engages Carson in conversation about the lesson, past and present musicians, concerts, school band, or Carson’s interests. I like the way Jim nudges Carson to push himself beyond his comfort zone, while also accepting that each student moves to their own “inner” drummer. Most important, Carson enjoys and respects Jim.
-Trish Rowe, parent
My son Kade has been taking drum lessons for over a year with Jim. Jim has a positive influence on my sons musical hobby. Kade has become one of the top drummers in his class at school because of Jim’s consistency in helping him understand music. With Jims knowledge of drums Kade has achieved many levels of growth. He holds the sticks properly and enjoys practicing. I see a spark in my son that would not be there without Jim in his life. He practices without being told just so he can be better when he sees Jim the next week.
Jim is perfect roll model for any student willing to learn. I would like to thank him for giving something to my son that I am not able to do. Sincerely
-Kristin Barajas, parent
My son Gabe has been taking drum lessons with Jim for a year and a half or so. He’s really enjoyed Jim’s instruction and has made a lot of progress in his drumming. Taking individual lessons has been rewarding for Gabe because he has been able to advance at his own pace and pursue music that he enjoys. Because of Jim’s guidance and encouragement Gabe has been able to participate in Tuolumne County Honor Band for the past two years which has been a rich experience for him. Jim makes the lessons fun and has been understanding and flexible when we’ve had to make schedule changes due to school and sports commitments. I feel fortunate to have found a local music teacher that has fueled my child’s enthusiasm for music and keeps him wanting more.
-Carlene Maggio Runte, parent
We are writing this letter in recommendation of Mr. Jim Anderson.
He has been instructing our youngest daughter Shannen, age 6, for one year now. She started at the age of 5 and has been going for lessons one day a week at his residence in his drum studio.
We, as parents of two young children and appreciators of music and the important role it plays in education, decided to enroll Shannen in lessons of her choice. She chose to learn more about and to practice the drums. We had heard about Jim through family and friends and had also seen him perform live before in his band “Crazy Ivan.” From day one when she started he had such enthusiasm and knowledge on the subject. This passion for teaching carried over to our daughter and she still goes every week ready to learn more and advance in her abilities.
In the year that Shannen has been attending lessons with Jim our oldest daughter Cassidy has gone through three piano instructors for various reasons. After losing our last piano instructor to graduation and moving out of the area we decided that she needed something more stable. She has been able to take what she has learned in piano and transfer this knowledge to drums. She also is enjoying her lessons and looks forward to learning every week.
We are so glad that we found someone so committed and with such desire to teach others. His love of drums carries over in all of his lessons and that is what keeps our children so interested.
– Heather and Brandon Winkles, parents
Dear Jim,
I wanted to take a moment to thank you for all the time you have put into helping to develop my son’s drum skills. You came highly recommended from a number of sources and I know now that it was with good reason. Justin loves to go to drum lessons and gets a great feeling of achievement and success from those lessons. He is continuing to improve every week and I believe he will soon surpass other older students who have been playing much longer. I have seen you perform with The Columbia College Jazz Band as well as Crazy Ivan and it is very obvious that you are not only highly skilled, but are the consummate professional” as well. I would recommend your services to anyone without reservation.
Thank you again.
Best Regards
– Dave Barnes, parent
My 15 year old daughter, Tara, has been taking drum lessons with Jim Anderson for a year now. He has always been very professional, on time, and easy to work with. His teaching style centers on technical application but leaves room for creativity and exploration. Tara is comfortable asking questions and even choosing songs to rehearse. She’s always anxious to show up for lessons and is now in the beginning stages of forming a band with some friends. I highly recommend Andersong Music to anyone looking for a drum teacher. And if you ever get a chance to see Jim perform in Crazy Ivan, put on your dance shoes!
– Jan Edwards, parent
It is with sincere pleasure I write this letter of reference for Mr. Jim E. Anderson.
Approximately ten years ago, I was in search of a competent drum instructor for my daughter, Lyndsay, who was eleven at the time. I was told that a gentleman who was an accomplished musician had left Tuolumne County years ago, and had recently returned home to work in a family business. He was also in search of students dedicated to improving their percussion skills.
My first meeting with Jim was over the telephone. I knew soon after our conversation and discussion in person that he would be the one to work with Lyndsay.
Jim created a learning environment for my daughter that engaged her interests and established a climate that helped her to feel safe. She was willing to take risks as a new percussionist.
Jim is a superb instructor, mentor, guide, professional, and gifted musician. I have found him to be highly competent in all areas. He demonstrates knowledge of music, is organized, and uses a variety of musical subject matter and content to engage his students. He has even taken her on field trips to witness first-hand, renowned musicians. Jim constantly stays abreast of new methods and teaching strategies.
Lyndsay has been involved in many musical adventures, including drumming for musical stage productions, Sonora High School Jazz Bands, The Golden Regiment Marching Band, and was the Golden Regiment Drum Major. She is currently a member of the San Francisco Irish Pipe Band.
Jim continues to take a vested interest in Lyndsay’s life. He supports her in all musical endeavors, encourages her, and has become a good friend.
I hold Jim in high regard. I admire him as a professional musician as well as a true and faithful friend. Anyone fortunate enough to spend time in his company is sure to come away having been blessed.
– Letha L. McLaurin, parent
Our nine year old son, Keanu Perez, has been taking drum lessons from Jim Anderson for the past year. Jim’s dynamic and creative teaching methods have not only kept Keanu eager to continue with lessons but also, as parents, we have come to view his learning with Jim as extremely valuable as well.
Under Jim’s leadership Keanu is learning how math, science and the art of music all contribute to his experience as a student – and he loves it! Jim is challenging when working with Keanu and also realistic about his capabilities and holds Keanu accountable for his progress. He is very in tuned with how and why children love learning. Keanu loves Jim.
As a professional, Jim is incredibly knowledgeable, unwavering in ethic, always willing and available to communicate, and very kind to our family. Personally, we love and admire Jim. We give him our highest regard!
– Juan Pablo and Tonie Perez, parents
Jim Anderson is the greatest! He has been teacher and inspiration to both our son and daughter. With Jim, you will get the skills and techniques to take you to an even higher level of playing. We would recommend his services to any aspiring drummer.
Jim first taught our son David in junior high and throughout his high school years. Under Jim’s tutelage, David became an accomplished drummer, performing in many bands, orchestras, and ensembles in the Mother Lode area. David’s love of jazz and his experiences working with Jim Anderson led him to audition and be accepted into the Conservatory of Music at the University of the Pacific where he has played drums and percussion in the Pacific Jazz Ensemble, UOP Orchestra, and the UOP Symphonic Band for the last three years. David is also a professional musician playing with a jazz ensemble in the Stockton area. Without Jim in his life, I’m sure that David would never have had these opportunities. When his schedule allows it, David still meets with Jim to hone his skills. Jim has become, not only been a respected teacher, but also a true friend to David.
Our daughter Katie began studying with Jim in junior high and continued into high school. We know that without the great foundation Jim has given her, she would not have come so far so fast. With Jim’s help she has become an accomplished drummer for her high school Symphonic Band, of which she is also the Percussion Section Leader. This year as a 10th grader she was named the Marching Band Drumline Section Leader. She also is 1st chair percussionist for the local youth symphony. Again, without the solid foundation and techniques Jim Anderson provided, she would never have reached her goals in music. She considers Jim her mentor and dear friend.
– Dave and Terri Tanner, parents
The ideal music teacher combines a personal drive for their own musical growth with an obsession for development of students. Jim has proven his prowess and versatility as a drummer, yet it’s clear to me as a sideman that he’s never quite satisfied and is always looking to further improve his art.
My son Billy has been Jim’s student for four years. In the early stages, Jim showed great patience with rudimentary skill development. As Billy has developed, Jim’s approach has shifted to push him to higher levels. I like the fact that Jim tries to find out what direction Billy wants to go, and helps him to get there. It’s obvious that he cares about his students. Jim is one of our top local musicians and teachers, and I heartily recommend him.
– Dan Parks, parent
From Students
Let me start by saying that Jim is truly a gentleman with a great sense of humor. I studied with Jim for a little over a year and I have to say it was a great experience. He taught me more than just technique and gave me a better understanding of what playing drums is really about. Being an adult with a job and other responsibilities didn’t leave me with nearly as much time to practice as I would have liked, that’s where Jim’s patience and understanding was greatly appreciated. I don’t think you’ll find a more experienced and well rounded teacher than Jim. He’s made a big difference in my playing and appreciation of drumming.
– Kevin Dela Torre, student
It is with great pleasure and respect I write this letter of reference for Jim E. Anderson. I have known Jim for many years now, and over the course of those years we have developed a lasting professional and personal relationship.
I began playing the drums in 5th grade through the Jamestown Elementary music program, and immediately knew music and percussion was a passion of mine. I soon sought to expand my skills through private lessons. At this time, my parents began researching instructors within Tuolumne County, and this is how we heard of Mr. Anderson.
As I began weekly lessons with Jim, my interest and ability in percussion increased. Jim made lessons fun, productive, challenging, and comfortable. He has a deep knowledge and appreciation for many styles, genres, and instruments, and his expertise made the lessons dynamic and rewarding. Jim recognized my interests, helped me develop my styles and ability, and constantly inspired within me new growth and musical awareness.
Throughout my elementary and high school years, I participated in jazz ensembles, marching bands, and concert groups through the Sonora High School Music program, and was involved in the Modesto Symphony Youth Orchestra and musical theatre performances in Tuolumne County. Currently I am playing with the San Francisco Irish Pipe Band. All my musical interests, percussive and otherwise, have been greatly enhanced by Jim’s instruction and broad knowledge.
Although I no longer officially take lessons from Jim, I do not think of myself as a former student of his – I consider him my constant mentor and friend. I have had many other influential music teachers in many settings, but it is Jim who I consider my mentor. Although I no longer live in the Sonora area, Jim and I maintain contact and interest in each other’s musical endeavors.
Jim has the unique ability to inspire those around him to come to a higher level of excellence, both in musicianship and character. It is without hesitation that I highly recommend Jim E. Anderson as an instructor and musician.
– Lyndsay McLaurin, student
Jim Anderson is an enthusiastic, talented musician that has been able to transfer his love of the drums and percussion to his students. In my time as his student I have learned fundamental techniques and practice disciplines that are necessary to reach my musical goals. Jim has made difficult concepts easy and tangible to grasp and has a real desire to see his students find their musical voice. His personable and patient nature makes him very approachable even when I have some interesting (dumb?) questions. I can truly say I look forward to my lesson each week and look forward to my progress through the world of drumming. I would, without hesitation, recommend Jim Anderson to anybody that has a desire to learn to drum. As Jim says, “Drums Good, Make Happy!”
– Chris Gorsky, student
I have been taking drum lessons form Jim Anderson for about 10 months and I think he’s a great teacher. He made me feel at ease right from the start and he really instills excitement in every lesson.
I’m basically a rock fan, but Jim is teaching me different styles of music such as jazz and funk thus making me a well-rounded drummer. I’m also learning to read music and becoming a better technical drummer.
Learning how to play drums this year has been a great experience for me and just plain fun. I highly recommend Jim Anderson to anyone who wants to add another dimension to their lives.
– Linda Devlin, student
Jim is one of those rare natural teachers who is clear at explaining, patient, and always has a good sense of humor that I think students of any age would appreciate. He makes you want to practice so you sound good when lesson day arrives.
The reason I think Jim is such an excellent choice for a drum teacher is that he can teach all styles of drumming so that no matter which direction the student ends up being interested in, Jim is there to guide and encourage. He provides a lot of interesting background information such as articles about what the professional drummers are thinking and doing; and because he attends all the latest clinics and Drum shows he’s on top of the newest drumming and teaching techniques. You couldn’t really ask for a more informed teacher. Besides all of that, he is a really nice person.
– Lucy Dunn, student
From Other Educators
As the Band Director of Avery Middle School, I had the opportunity to work with Jim Anderson, Drumline Instructor. Jim is a talented musician and his work with the children will have a lasting affect on their interest in music.
When working with the students, he was able to keep them on task, while inspiring a desire to learn. He encouraged them to expand their ability by giving them playing time on the quad-toms, bass, snare and cymbals while consistently spending time on rudimentary practice.
As a member of the After-School Music Faculty at Avery Middle School I also had the opportunity to perform with him in concert. He is a wonderful musician who I look forward to working with in the future. His work with the Columbia Jazz Band is superior and some might be surprised to hear his smooth singing voice as well.
As an instructor he has a sense of humor and patience to spare. He will be an asset to any music program he applies himself to and you will not be disappointed with his performance.
– Nichole Davis, Avery Middle School Band Director
Jim is a very solid, enthusiastic drum teacher for my son. He keeps him interested constantly, encourages him, and offers him challenges. His manner is comfortable and appropriate for children. His skill at his instrument is widely known in this community and he is able to speak about the drums intelligently and understandably, to both parents and students. I recommend him highly.
– Carol Woods, parent of student and teacher at Sonora Union High School
I have known Mr. Jim Anderson for ten years. Our initial acquaintance occurred when my granddaughter became his music student. Jim taught her about the various aspects of playing percussion instruments.
Over the years, Lyndsay progressed exceptionally well. Jim recognized her talents and accelerated the training, commensurate with her ability to learn the skills necessary to be a successful percussionist.
The chemistry between Lyndsay and Jim was outstanding. He was open and positive with her, constantly encouraging and challenging this eager teenager to reach for higher and higher levels of musical accomplishment. Needless to say, this gifted teacher set the stage for music success for my granddaughter.
As the Drum Major for the Sonora High School Golden Regiment Band for three years, a member of the S’Cool Street Stompers, and the Sonora High Jazz Band, Jim attended my granddaughter’s performances, and took an interest in her musical activities while giving her positive feedback and encouragement.
Although my granddaughter has moved away to college, Jim continues to be interested in her growth and they have built a life-long friendship.
In conclusion, I would like to give total endorsement to this quality music teacher. He has all of the attributes necessary to inspire and motivate prospective music students. He has my unqualified endorsement!
-Dr. Orville V. Millhollin, Tuolumne County Superintendent of Schools, Retired
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