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Drum Set at Arts Academy


Why Study Drum Set at Interlochen

As a drummer, you're the heartbeat of your band. At Interlochen, you'll master the building blocks of the drum set to unleash the full potential of this dynamic instrument. Most importantly, you'll learn how to hold your band together—and sound great doing it.

What You’ll Learn

Whether you're interested in pop or jazz, whether you dream of attending a college or conservatory or immediately starting a commercial career, our boarding school for drum set will set you on the path to reach your goals.


Select one of four tracks that best aligns with your interests. Learn through a combination of studio classes, ensembles and private lessons tailored to your individual needs. With exceptional instructors, you'll work on your reading, physical skills, knowledge of repertoire, and expression. You’ll develop real in-depth musical growth in a supportive environment. 

How to Apply

Audition Requirements

Meet the Faculty

Brad Novak

Instructor of Percussion

All Faculty

Guest Artists

  • Carl Allen, percussion
  • Peter Erskine, percussion

Program Highlights

Performance Opportunities

Drum set students will have multiple performance opportunities with our contemporary ensembles. Learn more in our Explore Ensembles section below.


Studio Classes and Private Lessons

Our combination of studio classes and private lessons will give you the individual attention you need to grow.

The Music Center

Our state-of-the-art 60,000 square-foot music facility has two 3,500 square-foot rehearsal halls, two recording studios which allow for rehearsal and performance recordings in multiple venues on campus with multiple ensemble and practice rooms, and individual faculty teaching studios. Learn more about The Music Center.

Explore Ensembles

Jazz

The Interlochen Arts Academy Jazz Ensemble boasts a storied history as one of the nation's most elite high school ensembles. Members develop as soloists and ensemble performers through rehearsals and performances of jazz standards and contemporary works.

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Jazz Combos

Interlochen Arts Academy's jazz combos are select groups of five to eight of the jazz program's most experienced improvisers. Members flex their skills as improvisers, while practicing collaboration and ensemble communication.

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Popular Music

Named for iconic backing bands of the 21st century, the Popular Music Ensembles provide hands-on learning opportunities for aspiring contemporary musicians.

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A boy playing the drums

I have made amazing friends and have improved my abilities on drums tremendously. I've also grown academically. I enjoyed all of my classes, teachers, and classmates.

Dino Iannello '18, Arts Academy (Music)

College Matriculation

Recent Interlochen Arts Academy Music Division students have continued their education at the following institutions and beyond.

  • Berklee College of Music
  • Boston Conservatory at Berklee
  • California Institute of the Arts
  • Carnegie Mellon University
  • Cleveland Institute of Music
  • Curtis Institute of Music
  • Indiana University
  • The Juilliard School
  • Johns Hopkins University
  • Manhattan School of Music
  • New England Conservatory
  • New York University
  • Northwestern University
  • Oberlin College and Conservatory
  • Rice University
  • San Francisco Conservatory of Music
  • University of Miami
  • University of Michigan
  • University of Rochester
  • University of Southern California
  • Vanderbilt University

Dive deeper into Interlochen Arts Academy with a free digital viewbook

Arts Academy Viewbook Thumbnail

In our free informational booklet, you'll learn more about: 

  • Each of our seven arts areas 
  • Renowned faculty 
  • College-preparatory academics 
  • Student resources 
  • How to apply and financial aid information 
  • And more