At Music Royale — your Friendly Neighborhood Music Store in Powell, Ohio — we’re proud to have an incredible lineup of professional musicians shaping the next generation of performers. This month, we’re featuring one of our passionate instructors: Brent Badger, our resident drum teacher and lifelong groove-maker.
👉 Watch Brent’s full interview here
🥁 From Corporate Life to Cymbals and Creativity
Brent didn’t start out as a music educator. In fact, his first career was in the corporate world — but the beat never stopped. After over 40 years behind the drums, Brent found a way to turn his lifelong passion for rhythm into a second career teaching at Music Royale.
“I started piano when I was six and drums in the fifth grade. I played in marching band, jazz ensemble, and college groups. Music just stuck with me. Now I finally get to do something more with it — and I’m really excited about that.”
Brent brings that excitement into every lesson. His students learn that music isn’t just about hitting the right notes — it’s about building confidence, finding your groove, and unlocking creativity.
🎶 Teaching Philosophy: One Stone at a Time
Brent describes learning music as crossing a stream:
“You can see the other side, but you have to take one stone at a time. You might get your feet wet, but that’s how you move forward.”
His approach to teaching reflects his patient, problem-solving mindset — one honed both through decades of drumming and years of corporate leadership. For Brent, lessons have to be fun, but also focused.
He reminds students that even simple rhythms are worth celebrating:
“Enjoy the simple and don’t overthink it. Some of my favorite professional drummers are still students. Learning never stops.”
🧠 What Makes Brent Different
Brent isn’t your typical drum teacher — he brings a unique combination of professional performance experience, academic insight, and real-world perspective.
He’s studied with legendary drummer Steve Smith (of Journey fame), played in countless bands and trios around town, and continues to perform regularly with local acts like Step Back 3.
“That practical gig experience helps me give my students real advice. I can talk about what actually happens on stage — not just in the practice room.”
And when students hit walls, Brent knows exactly how to help:
“We break things down to the simplest parts. Maybe it’s just the right foot. Maybe it’s that one fill. Don’t stress — figure out what’s frustrating you, and tackle it one piece at a time.”
🪘 The Groove That Keeps Him Going
If Brent were stranded on a desert island with a drum kit, he says he’d play ‘Rosanna’ by Toto on repeat.
“It’s just got that perfect shuffle — a little hard rock, a little swing, and a lot of groove.”
That same groove shows up in his lessons, where Brent teaches students to feel the music, not just count it. He encourages creativity, individuality, and fun in every session.
🎓 Why You’ll Love Taking Lessons With Brent
- 🥁 40+ years of drumming experience
- 🎵 Experienced performer in multiple genres — from jazz to pop to rock
- 👨🏫 Professional background in corporate training and music education
- ❤️ Focus on fun, creativity, and lifelong learning
- 🔊 Real gig experience — from local patios to full-stage performances
🧭 Join Brent’s Drum Studio at Music Royale
Whether you’re picking up drumsticks for the first time or looking to level up your groove, Brent will meet you where you are — and help you cross to the next “stone” on your musical journey.
Ready to book your first lesson?
👉 Visit our Lesson Page to get started.
📖 Read more about Brent on his Teacher Bio.
💬 Have questions? Contact Us today.
🎸 Explore all our programs on the Music Royale Home Page or see more stories on our Blog Page.
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