EDUCATION

“I just had the pleasure of attending a Jim Mola drum clinic at The Music Loft in Greensboro, NC. Unlike the average clinic (which in my experience run heavily to "Look - I can do this. Don't you wish you could too?") Jim spoke from a wellspring of wisdom as to why we drum and how to find the artist in each of us. Particularly pleasing was the time he spent with a gifted 10 year old in the audience. There's a kid who has just begun to realize that there is a world beyond Avenged Sevenfold.”

- Clinic attendee

"I need to recognize Jim Mola for introducing me to jazz music. I never heard of elvin, nor max, nor art until he came to myrtle beach almost a year ago. Thank you and I hope to one day see you again!!" 

- JKG

"Jim's skill as a clinician is exceptional. Any drummer can benefit from his experience, technique and advice!"

- Dan H

”At the end of every session I can’t stop talking about how excited I am and how I really feel I can make this a functional job for myself despite whatever obstacles come my way. I just want to thank you for being such a solid teacher and mentor. I feel very lucky to have you!“

- Krista U

"I am lucky to say Jim Mola was not only my teacher but he was also my mentor. I can with a hundred percent confidence say that my musical and drumming capabilities / success have excelled farther than I ever could have imagined because I had studied with Jim Mola."

- Mario G

"I've had quite a few drum teachers and one in particular stands out to me. Jim gave me inspiration, motivation and tons of concepts, much of which I still refer to this day. He taught me how to choose cymbals correctly, pick sticks the right way and what makes a Radio King single-ply from the '30s so badass (among other things). He made me realize the most expensive kit, the newest model cymbals and hippest drum instruction book means nothing without guidance - that listening to and watching all types of drummers before us is a constant lesson in itself. Thank you for all your time and patience." - Doug H

"My now eleven-year-old son has been taking private drum and mallet lessons with Jim for the past two years, and I can’t emphasize enough how wonderful his experience has been. Jim is not only a talented musician and dedicated teacher, but his amazing sense of humor and quick wit keep my son laughing and motivated. He has truly developed into a dedicated drummer under Jim’s tutelage, but even more important he looks forward to his lessons each week and finds real joy in making music. We are fans for life!" Amanda M.

“He brought the house down at the school rock band concert - so many parents said he was amazing. They still talk about it with me (and it was a month ago). He has gotten so much better since working with you. So thank you so much!! There’s been a real difference since working with you regularly.“ Hannah Y

 "I know we don't really know each other that well, but I wanna thank you. I wanna thank you because I recently re-watched a masterclass you did at The Collective a year ago or so, and it is just inspiring. You're a huge part of the reason I keep going and you are highly motivating. Thank you." - Felix D (Student, The Collective)

I've been a student of music for much of my life and had many, many teachers. After a singular lesson with Jim, I can readily say he lands on my short list of most impactful instructors.

Jim subbed a private drum lesson for my regular teacher at The Collective. On that day, I happened to be in a place of intense doubt--I doubted myself, my abilities as a musician, my wherewithal to walk the long road ahead. At that moment, I didn't need another coordination exercise or technical concept. What I needed was advice. 

Something about the unassuming way he introduced himself, the earnestness in his voice when he asked me what I wanted to work on that day, made me feel safe. He listened calmly to every word I had to say, and over the course of the next two hours offered some of the most sage counsel I've received in my years of study.

Jim took great care to meet me exactly where I was at. I came to appreciate that I was not alone, that indeed there was light at the end of the tunnel. After the lesson, I didn't just feel encouraged... I felt enlightened. I was in the habit then of audio recording each of my lessons for future review; little did I know this particular lesson would be the one I came back to hear most frequently.

Since that day, I have also had the privilege of seeing Jim perform numerous times, leading bands in a myriad of musical styles. Having experienced him both in the classroom and on stage, it is most evident that Jim's depth of character is rivaled only by the depth of his musicality. 

The ability to listen deeply, respond thoughtfully, and inspire confidence in one's self is the mark of a great drummer. It also happens to be the mark of a great mentor. Jim Mola is the highest order of both.

Book a lesson with Jim. You won't regret it. 

Chris B - The Collective

“Just wanted to take a moment to thank you for a fantastic clinic at The Don Hamrick Drum Center. Your knowledge of music and drumming skills were no doubt the finest that our drum center has ever seen. I've had many students and other customers that were there call to express how much they enjoyed it and talking to you afterwards. As much as I enjoyed the clinic, I also enjoyed the time we spent hanging out the days prior to the clinic. You are not only a great musician and clinician, but also a great person to get to know. I will forever remember our time together and look forward to seeing you again in the future. I wish you and your family the very best in all that you do. Please keep in touch with us and know that you are always welcome to our home and the drum center here in North Myrtle Beach.

P.S. I would also like to thank all of your sponsors; Vater, Sabian and Aquarian for their contributions that helped to make this clinic a success. The best drum products on the planet!”

Don Hamrick - Don Hamrick Drum Center

"What I look for in a master class or clinic is not just education, but inspiration, and Jim Mola delivered both in spades. The timeliness of his message and the passion he has for music made for a priceless experience that has greatly affected my own playing and expression on the instrument." 

- Nicholas Stott | NVS DRUMS

"Thanks for a week of fun, action, camaraderie and pure joy! Emma could not have been happier! She learned many new things and made many new friends. The show was amazing and it was a testament of the idea, inspiration and dedication you and Jim gave to the children. It worked like a charm with this group of like minded kids. Bravo to you and the kids! 

Emma is leaving tomorrow for her sleep away camp. Although she is looking forward to it, she is really going to miss the percussion camp. She wishes she could do both sessions. Have a great summer - can't wait to see you in Fall."

"Our son was all chatty over dinner about the week, how much fun and all excited about what he learned. He said it really helped him and he feels his "fills" are getting better. So just wanted to say thanks again to you for keeping the spark going and taking his passion for drumming to the next level. So fun to watch as his parents!"