Whether it’s rock, blues, jazz, bossa nova, or any other groove, Amanda Lotas loves teaching and playing drums with any interested student. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of rhythms, rudiments and music notation with those who dream about becoming drummers. She encourages students to become proficient step by step, all the while listening to their favorite beats. Gentle, clear guidance keeps everyone motivated and engaged!
Background
Amanda graduated from Barnard College in New York City, and was lucky to have access to limitless live music. She played electric bass in a rock band in her 20’s, and gigged at places like the Bitter End and CBGB’s. When she moved to the Outer Banks she began learning djembe drumming from West Africa, and played with a local group for years. Congas and bongos were next, and she works with an excellent percussion teacher from Sao Paulo. When she began on the drum set most recently, she got her chops up by playing with multiple groups here on the OBX. One of these has served as an excellent way to guide and teach drummers with less experience. Additionally, in summer 2025, Amanda attended Drum Camp in Vancouver, led by Drumeo’s Mike Michalkow!
What to expect
Amanda offers private lessons to those interested in the fundamentals of drum kit playing. Students learn about the instruments of the basic kit – snares, toms, cymbals. Then, the playing journey begins with healthy body organization, hand technique, limb independence and rhythmic coordination, both off and on the drums.
Students learn music fundamentals in the form of rhythm rudiments and fills, counting and keeping time, and music notation. Together with Amanda, each student builds a home practice routine and essentials to have on hand – metronome, practice pads and sticks, practice tracks, etc. Everything is done in sync with each drummer’s musical goals!
