Today we’d like to introduce you to Barry Carter
Hi Barry, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I started playing drums at around 7 years old. I had always loved music and would parade around my house as a kid playing air guitar to my favorite songs. However, drums was always the instrument I gravitated towards. One day my grandfather told me that my late father was a drummer and that they had plans to give me his drum kit. When they eventually gave it to me I became obsessed with the idea of becoming a drummer like him. As I got older and more mature I began to take the instrument more seriously and the rest is history. I’ve played in various bands throughout the years and attended Los Angeles Music Academy in my early 20’s. After I taught my first drum student over 10 years ago I realized I also had a passion for teaching. I love passing my knowledge of drums off to others that are also passionate about the instrument.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Our business is definitely beginning to take off now, but the road hasn’t always been so smooth. Like most businesses, we were slow in the beginning. The first couple of months are tough when you’re slow, because you wonder whether or not it was a good idea to have started the business in the first place. A lot of questions arise and negative thoughts can creep in and discourage you. You have to hang in there and persevere while you keep telling yourself it’s going to eventually pick up. Like the old saying goes “Do what you love and the money will follow.” On a positive note, all of our students really seem to enjoy their lessons. I strive to make each one a fun learning experience for them. As a result we’ve had great retention. Weekly marketing and word of mouth have definitely helped as well, because our clientele continues to increase. Starting this business has been a learning experience for us. The process has taught us first hand that struggle’s aren’t always a bad thing. They can actually promote growth and strength!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
We are a family owned business whose goal is to bring music education into our neighborhood and community. Our business offers drum lessons to all ages out of our home in Woodforest. My wife Ann works behind the scenes and does all the marketing, scheduling and customer service while I teach all of the lessons. I create customized lesson plans for each of our students based on their skill levels. We offer 30 or 60 minute drum lessons and recommend at least four lessons per month. I like to consider myself a fun teacher whose desire is to make each experience unforgettable for my students. We are also the only business in Woodforest who offer drum lessons!
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
I’ve had many wonderful musical memories as a kid. I’ll never forget sitting in the hall way of my childhood home being mesmerized by Slash’s guitar part for Sweet Child of Mine the first time I heard it. However, my favorite memory, which occurred shortly thereafter, was getting my very first drum kit. I was 7 years old and it had belonged to my late father. It was a 1960s champagne sparkle Gretsch kit. When my parents pulled it down from the attic I was ecstatic. Looking back It was not only a special memory, but a sentimental one as well since I never got to meet my biological father. He passed from stomach cancer while my mom was pregnant with me. I like to think that his passion for music is now carried on by me!
Pricing:
- Currently $30 for half an hour
- Currently $55 for an hour
Contact Info:
- Facebook: Drum Lessons with Barry
