A professional educator with a Music Education degree from UNT and over 30 professional theater show credits across the West Coast.
Jim is a highly skilled percussionist and educator based in Tacoma, Washington. He earned his Bachelor in Music Education from the world-renowned University of North Texas in Denton, TX, in 1991. This elite academic training provided him with a sophisticated understanding of both performance and pedagogy, allowing him to teach with professional precision across a vast array of instruments and styles.
Since 1995, Jim has established an impressive professional performance history. His credits range from musical theater—performing in over 30 different professional shows—to top-40 pop, R&B, and small-group jazz ensembles. He has also been an active session musician for various studio recordings and choral projects. This deep "real-world" experience ensures his students receive practical, performance-based guidance that goes beyond the practice room.
Jim offers master-level instruction on the Drum Set and all forms of Percussion. His stylistic expertise is comprehensive, including Rudimental/Marching, Jazz, Rock, Pop, Blues, R&B, Funk, Ethnic, and Musical Theatre. Known for his outgoing and fun personality, Jim creates an energetic and inspiring environment for students of all ages and skill levels, helping them find their own rhythmic voice.
Jim provides lessons from a professional studio in Tacoma and offers high-definition online sessions. He also travels for in-home lessons throughout the greater Tacoma and South Puget Sound area.
Approach: Jim focuses on building rock-solid technical foundations while tailoring the repertoire to each student's specific musical interests, ensuring that learning remains an exciting journey.
We know that inviting an instructor into your life requires trust. That's why every instructor at Melody Music Studios, including Jim, goes through the strictest vetting process in the industry.