WELCOME

I’m Barry Birmingham, drummer, educator and lifelong lover of rhythm based here in beautiful Santa Barbara, California.

I’ve been playing drums for most of my life. I discovered my passion at an early age and have been devoted to the craft ever since. Over the past decade, drumming has become a full-time career for me: teaching private lessons, performing at gigs and helping fellow drummers by repairing and maintaining their equipment.

My goal as a teacher is simple: to support you in becoming the best drummer you can be and to bring real value to your playing. On this site, you’ll get a sense of my background, approach and musical journey.

I’ve had the privilege of studying with incredible instructors, both locally and nationally, including Greg Bissonette and Tommy Aldridge, and I’ve taken master classes with legends like Dave Weckl and Ed Shaughnessy.

In my lessons, I focus on essential skills such as basic reading, technique, timekeeping, groove and dynamics—especially in the context of playing with a band.

Please enjoy exploring the photos, videos, and resources here on my webpage.
Thank you for visiting, and I hope to work with you soon.

—Barry

GET IN TOUCH ANY TIME

PHONE: (805) 452-5579

CLICK HERE TO EMAIL.

LESSONS AT SB DRUM LAB: 812 E Gutierrez Street #A, Santa Barbara, CA 93103

Take Lessons

"Barry is a great instructor. I’ve studied with him for three years. He is passionate, patient, and genuinely fun to learn from. He explains complex drum fills clearly and has shown me that you’re never too old to learn a new instrument. At 68 years young, I’m living proof."

— Mary
"Barry is an outstanding drum teacher. His ability to adapt lessons to individual goals is outstanding. He creates an environment that's supportive, challenging, and fun.  I highly recommend them to anyone serious about improving their drumming."

— Rick
"I started taking lessons in 6th grade, having never played before. Now I'm in the eighth grade, jazz band doing competitions, and planning to continue with band in high school.  Barry made learning easy and fun. I feel like I'm a real drummer now."

— Jake, 14 years old.

WELCOME

I’m Barry Birmingham, drummer, educator and lifelong lover of rhythm based here in beautiful Santa Barbara, California.

GET IN TOUCH ANY TIME

"Barry is a great instructor. I’ve studied with him for three years. He is passionate, patient, and genuinely fun to learn from. He explains complex drum fills clearly and has shown me that you’re never too old to learn a new instrument. At 68 years young, I’m living proof."

"Barry is an outstanding drum teacher. His ability to adapt lessons to individual goals is outstanding. He creates an environment that's supportive, challenging, and fun. I highly recommend them to anyone serious about improving their drumming."

"I started taking lessons in 6th grade, having never played before. Now I'm in the eighth grade, jazz band doing competitions, and planning to continue with band in high school. Barry made learning easy and fun. I feel like I'm a real drummer now."

"Barry is an outstanding drum teacher. His ability to adapt lessons to individual goals is outstanding. He creates an environment that's supportive, challenging, and fun.  I highly recommend them to anyone serious about improving their drumming."

"I started taking lessons in 6th grade, having never played before. Now I'm in the eighth grade, jazz band doing competitions, and planning to continue with band in high school.  Barry made learning easy and fun. I feel like I'm a real drummer now."