Percussion Lessons

Step into the vibrant and inspiring world of percussion with one of Australia’s leading musicians, Dr. Nick Parnell. With a reputation for excellence in both performance and teaching, Dr. Parnell offers private tuition tailored to each student’s experience level.

Whether your child is just beginning their musical journey or you’re an advanced player or professional looking to refine your percussion skills, Nick provides expert, personalised instruction to help students reach their full potential.

From tuned percussion to drum-kit, lessons are engaging, high-quality, and delivered with the care of a world-class educator. With limited places available, now is the perfect time to learn from a true leader in the field.

Discover your rhythm. Elevate your sound. Learn with Dr. Nick Parnell.

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Learning the marimba with Dr. Nick has been such an exciting and rewarding experience. He not only taught me technique but also helped me feel the emotion and expression behind the music, deepening my love and understanding of marimba

Zara Y.

Nick is an inspiring and passionate teacher. He is able to instil an enthusiasm for music in his students. He facilitated many amazing opportunities for public performances and competitions and was a positive and encouraging influence for my son and his music.

Helen C.

I really enjoyed my lessons with Nick - He'd frequently introduce something new and interesting that would challenge me, and he did a great job finding pieces that would suit me.

Jackson C.

Nick is as passionate in teaching as he is in percussion music. My child looked forward to their lesson every week. Nick also maintained an excellent communication with me regarding lesson times as well as my child’s progress.

Wai F.

At all times Nick was a calm, patient and encouraging teacher. Our daughter gained outstanding results in her Year 12 Music studies and a Performing Arts leadership role at school. We are incredibly grateful to Nick for the impact he has had on our daughter and could not recommend him more highly!

Lucinda M.

Learning from Nick gave me the skills I needed to play confidently, and a have a fun time on stage.

Jackson C.

We were thrilled to have Nick visit us for our Day of Percussion and share his skills and expertise. Students can rest assured that they are in good hands!

Brent Miller - Head of Percussion - Melbourne Conservatorium of Music

Why Study with Dr. Nick Parnell

World class performer and educator with over 20 years experience
Taught students of all ages who learn simply for the enjoyment through to professional musicians
Lectured at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, Melbourne University, Elder Conservatorium of Music and the West Australian Academy of Performing Arts
Awarded a PhD in Percussion Performance (Adelaide University)
Awarded the Dame Roma Churchill Fellowship
Studied with many of the world’s greatest percussionists from Neil Percy (London Symphony Orchestra), Uffe Savery (Safri Duo – Denmark) to Ed Saindon (Berklee College of Music – USA )
ABC Classics Recording Artist
Performed at the Australian High Commission in London, Melbourne Recital Centre and Sydney’s City Recital Hall Angel Place
Performed with leading groups including the West Australian Symphony Orchestra and Adelaide Symphony Orchestra
Performed at the Adelaide and Melbourne International Festival of the Arts, International Canberra Chamber Music Festival, Musica Viva and WOMAD.
Winner of the International Melbourne Percussion Competition

About Lessons

Each lesson is tailored to the individual. Techniques and approaches are all grounded in latest pedagogical practises. Areas taught may include:

All areas of percussion including vibes, marimba, drum kit and snare drum.
Reading music
Correct technical approaches
Rhythmic development
Musicality
Theory
Learning of repertoire and songs
Different musical styles
Exam, performances or scholarship audition preparation
Performance craft

Lessons are supportive, engaging and are aimed to help students to achieve their best.

When

Weekly lessons occur approximatley aligning with each Australian school terms. Exact dates coming soon.

Where

Lessons are available online and in person. Online lessons (via Zoom or similar) enable you to enjoy expert tuition from the convivence of your own home anywhere in the world. In-person lessons occur close to the Adelaide CBD.

Cost

Please complete the Apply for Lessons form and we will be in touch with details.

Equipment

If you don’t already have an instrument, no problem as we can provide everything you need.

The Nick Parnell Percussion Academy hires a range of low-volume drum kits, marimbas and vibraphones, ensuring you get the perfect instrument for your musical needs. When applying, you can indicate if you don’t have an instrument and we will then be able to advise you on the most appropriate options.

Lesson Term & Conditions

Details coming soon

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FAQ's

Q: I have more questions, what should I do? A: Please click the Apply for Lessons button and complete the form. This doesn't commit you to lessons but will enable us to contact you to answer any further question you may have.

Contact

Please fill out the Apply for Lessons form and we will be in touch.