- Testimonials or Compliments from Parents
- Testimonials or compliments from Students
Lynn Scott: Matt & I are very sad with his drum lessons coming to an end. As I'm sure you can imagine he is doing 3 scholarship subjects this year (Y13) as well as working 2 -3 shifts at K Mart each week. I cannot thank you enough for the passion for drumming that you have instilled in Matt. I am sure it is something that will stay with him for life. He has come such a long way from the little Year 5 boy that started with you 8 years ago!!
Thank you so much!!
Carly Gill:I just want you to know how thankful I am to have had you as a teacher for all these years. I don't think there is a teacher out there that cares more about his students then you do, or a teacher that does so much to see his students achieve the best they can. And it's really paid off! I've had many successes and awesome memories that have come out of learning the drums through you and all the Nasha concerts and friends made through them has been awesome! I can't thank you enough for all you've taught me and the opportunities that have risen because of you. Thanks for being a friend and mentor to me for the past 4 years Mark.
Kelly & Richard Fry: Thank you for a wonderful year of lessons in 2015 for our son Nathan!! You are an inspiring, clever and amazing teacher!!
Scott Prentice:Thank you for the past four amazing years. It has been such an honour to have been taught by you and your patience is unbelievable. I am going to miss you very much as I will the drum lessons.
Steve & Jackie Bristow: As Ben comes towards the end of his lessons with you, I'd just like to take this opportunity to say a massive thank you for everything that you have done for him. I really feel that Ben's decision to start learning the drums has been a major turning point in his life so far. Succeeding in, and enjoying, drumming has given him a real sense of achievement and done wonders for his confidence. I truly believe that we all have just a few people throughout the course of our lives that really play a major part in who we are ... and I feel that you are one of those people for Ben. You have been an amazing teacher, a fantastic role model and also a great friend to Ben. I know he will carry very fond memories of his drum lessons for the rest of his life. Now that he is nearly 18, it won't be long until he can follow your band around the pub circuits!
Andrew & Rachelle Simkin: We have found Mark to be a most excellent drum teacher. As parents, we have watched our son grow in confidence and ability over the 3-4 years under Mark’s direction. Mark has encouraged him to practice (and practice!), play in the well organised public concerts that Mark put on at personal cost, and finally; motivated him to sit music exams to have something to show for all the hard work. We would highly recommend Mark to students and their parents alike. Keep up the good work Mark. You are a legend!
Arijana Lyng-Olive: (Birkdale Primary, Birkdale Intermediate and Birkenhead College) I was very fortunate to have a drum teacher like Mark, he taught me so much over the years and helped especially with my self confidence. By learning to play the drums I did a lot better in school and made a lot of musical friends. Being young and going to do the Trinity Guildhall examinations was extremely nerve-racking, but Mark made sure we were well prepared and after completing this on multiple occasions came a sense of achievement, as well as something to brag about. It taught me discipline (Mark telling me to practice, practice and practice) as well as constantly pushing the boundaries and getting many of his students to perform in front of a large crowd! Scary-but definitely worth it. I had a lot of fun and will never forget the experience. Thank you Mark!
Mandy & Eric Verdonk: Our 14 year old son, enjoys his lessons with Mark. He thinks he's a "good teacher" because he's "cool as"! Mark is an excellent drum teacher as he most importantly develops rapport with his students, he sets high expectations and inspires them with his own skills and enthusiasm.
Lee Hohaia (Chief Executive, Phamarcy Guild of NZ, Ltd: My son learnt drums from Mark for several years. Mark was always very positive and found things to praise! We enjoyed our association with Mark and would recommend anyone wanting to learn drums to get in touch with Drumadiddle.
Prisca Lorenza: (Murray's Bay Intermediate/Rangitoto College) Mark has been such a great teacher to be around. He makes learning enjoyable and he really understands me and changes his teaching style to suit my learning needs. I really appreciate Mark's guidance and appreciate the hard work he puts into us students.
Carly Gill: (Westlake Girls High School) Drum lessons with Mark are always fun and I learn so much every lesson. He's a great teacher who challenges you but let's you learn at your pace too. I really enjoyed his bands' Bollywood concert I got to perform in.
Stephanie Archer: When my son Ethan first expressed an interest in learning the drums he was only 6 years of age, I rang Mark, and had a chat with him. Although, Ethan was younger than his existing students, he was still very interested in meeting Ethan, to gauge his ability. Ethan although very young, bonded with Mark’s easy going nature straight away, and responded well to Mark’s teaching methods. His skills increased amazingly under Mark’s tuition. Mark always goes the ‘extra mile’ for his students, spending his time and money on organising concerts for them to 'experience' performing, and encouraging them always to better their skills by doing Trinity Exams, and of course practicing their rudiments! I have no hesitation in recommending Mark as a drum tutor, he encourages his students to better themselves without being overbearing and their skill levels increase while having fun!
Catrina Sewell: Mark is not only an accomplished drummer - he is also an excellent, thorough and dedicated teacher. I feel truly priveleged to have Mark teaching and guiding my son's musical development.
Maree Gray: Mark has taught my son Lucas (11yrs) the drums now for 2.5years. I have been blown away with the level that Lucas has reached in this short time as Mark is constantly challenging him with new types of music and different songs to play most weeks. Mark is so passionate about music and this is transferred through his teaching. He is a very talented muso and am glad that we found him!
Kim Onesti: My son Jordan has been taught by Mark for several years now. From a boy who could barely hold a stick, he is now playing songs from his favourite bands! Jordan is always keen for his lessons, as Mark keeps things interesting and varied. I would highly recommend him to anyone thinking of starting their child for lessons. Mark puts a lot of effort into his lessons and the results show. He is the best!
Jared Desvaux de Marigny: (Henderson High School) I had the pleasure of learning drums with Mark for 1 Year, before I went on to doing my Music Degree at the University of Auckland. Mark truly has a great approach to teaching and makes sure you understand concepts thoroughly before moving on to new material, so you don't develop gaps in your playing. While learning with Mark, I was pushed and challenged with several different styles of music and drumming techniques all at an advanced level, which really helped develop my skill set as a drummer for my audition into university later on that year. Not only is Mark a great teacher and drummer, he is also very friendly, professional, patient and most of all - he enjoys teaching and has a true passion to see his students succeed.If it weren't for Mark I doubt I would have passed the audition to get into my degree and I certainly wouldn't be playing drums professionally right now.
Mark & Wendy Helas: Jordan has had an awesome 2 years with you and he has loved it and we feel he has come a long way in ability and confidence so thank you so much for everything.
Janet Clare: I would just like to say how grateful both Tony and I are for your patience and perseverance with Cameron, we know he has not been the easiest of students. In your time teaching Cameron, over the past 3 years, he has always enjoyed his lessons with you even though at times, he found the drums very frustrating.
The Murray Clan; Wesley, Fiona and Leigh: Mark, just wanted to say what a fantastic drum teacher you are! Wes had such a great time learning the drums with you at such an early age. It gave him so much more confidence and you were so patient and encouraging. Thank you so much and all the best for the future.
Tae Heon Kim: (Westlake Boys High School) My experience with having drum lessons with you was really enjoyable and fun. You were very kind and helpful, and I think I have improved lot during that time. It was my pleasure to have you as my drum teacher. Thank you
Donna Patterson:: Taine really enjoys his lessons with you and I'm sure these have contributed to the successes enjoyed by both the rock band and jazz band he plays in at school .
Lynn Scott: Thank you Mark, you have made Matt’s day!!! It is a year today since his dad died, so it was a really good day for his Trinity College Grade 4 results to arrive. He is buzzing...Distinction Certificate!! Thanks for all the hard work you put in with him......he absolutely loves it!
Matthew Peacock: (Mairangi Bay Primary/Murray's Bay Intermediate/Rangitoto College) Mark is an amazing and inspiring drum teacher. I would recommend him to anyone looking to start drumming or anyone looking for a superior drum teacher to who they have now. He’s fantastic!!!
Carolyn Berry: Thank you very much for teaching Ethan this year. He has enjoyed his lessons and has devoped great skills & a lot more confidence
Trish Jones: Jordana has loved the drum lesson time with you and we all think so highly of you as a teacher. As a family we have really enjoyed being part of your musical experience and appreciate the way your family have welcomed us into your home.
Glenys & Peter Taylor: We'd like to thank you for all the time and effort you have put into making Waverley the good little drummer she is. She has thoroughly enjoyed the lessons she has had with you over the past few years and I really hope she keeps on practising now that full time employment has taken a hold on her. Peter and I have always enjoyed listening to the songs you have taught her and been more than pleased with how quickly she has picked them up. We just wish she had more confidence to play to others, but realise that that is something she is not entirely comfortable with. Thank you for your encouragement and we hope that your hard work will continue to be heard at our house.
Natasha Easey: (Rangitoto College) I've been through a few different drum teachers but all in all Mark has been the most organised and driven. He gives his students his complete attention during lessons, makes their learning his priority yet still manages to find time to do gigs with his bands. He has helped me achieve distinction in grades 2, 3, 4 and 5 in the Trinity College (London) examinations. His love for music and drumming has inspired me to continue drumming and I am currently doing a Jazz (Music) Degree at the University of Auckland. I hope to make drumming my career and I have Mark to thank for sharing his knowledge with me to help to get me where I am today."Thanks so much for everything you've done for me, for putting up with me and for teaching me not only how to drum but to improve my skills, make and achieve goals and gain confidence in myself. I will still keep in touch, maybe even teach you some Jazz!!! Thanks again and best of luck for your musical journey....
Jayan Bhikha: (Rangitoto College) I remember my first lesson I had with Mark when I was 10 years old as he had just arrived in New Zealand. From this day forward I never looked back as he always gave me the confidence and motivation to continue learning and playing the drums. Thank you for being a great tutor/mentor for the past 8 years. I have learnt so much from playing songs, creating & programming awesome beats and preparing for school and concert performances as well as exams.Mark always encouraged me to play at the highest level possible which helped me achieve distinction for grades 3-5 in the Trinity College (London) exams as well as Excellence in Music at NCEA Level 3. Mark is an awesome tutor and mentor and has taught me numerous drumming skills and tips to play professionally. I am currently pursuing my musical career at Auckland University and hopefully one day I can make Mark proud by becoming a successful musician, who knows I may even become famous (ha ha!) Thank you so much for giving up your time teaching me throughout these years. I will still keep in touch and all the best for the future.
Leah Hughes: Mark is a skilled drum tutor. He takes a lot of care in teaching the drumming basics that make it quicker to learn songs. He understands what beginners need with his own experience of teaching himself to drum. He does this on a very professional level with communicating at the students level and age, and creates a warm welcoming studio that inspires motivation over music."
David & Helen Freeman: Mark's passion and enthusiasm is really bringing the best out of Adam's drumming, Mark is patient but also knows when to push students with talent, his technical expertise is second to none - GO MARK!
Margot Trochhi: Mark, thank you for teaching and inspiring my son Angelo. He lives for his drumming and not a day goes by without him playing them. He is getting better and better. You have given him confidence and the skills to progress. He looks forward to Wednesdays and never forgets his sticks. Thank you once again .
Ben Bristow: (Birkenhead College) Thanks for the last 5 1/2 years of tutoring and inspiring me and for helping me to excel at my NCEA performances and even teaching me to read....sort of, ha ha ha!! Not only did I enjoy the lessons I also feel that I wouldn't play the way that I do today if I didn't learn the craft from the master himself, even a year of not having lessons has not even begun to deter the passion and love I have for drumming. A true testament. I hope to be as groovy as you one day!! Cheers for being an awesome teacher and now a genuine mate!!
Tracey McIntyre: David attended lessons with Mark for 2 years, he really enjoyed his lessons and made great progress. Mark has a great rapport with his students and is a fantastic teacher. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Mark to all.
Elaine Moore: Mark is an awesome teacher. His style means that pupils quickly learn to play songs, keeping lessons fun and interesting. My son loves him and is now having a blast in a rock band at school.
David Moore: (Murray's Bay Intermediate) I have been learning drums for 2 years now and the lessons are fun and relaxed...
Esther Toclo: (Henderson High School) Learning under Mark's guidance is a fantastic experience. His constant encouragement , surplus of patience & great taste in music , truly engaged and challenged me to keep getting better at playing. It is an honour to learn from you
Rach'el: Mark has been tutoring my daughter for a year now, in that time she has learnt lots and enjoys her lessons. He is a great teacher!
Penny Keatings: Mark is both a talented drum player and an excellent teacher. He is patient and understanding with my son, but at the same time he makes sure that the lessons are challenging and fun. He has the best interests of his pupils at heart at all times.
Thank you so much!!
Carly Gill:I just want you to know how thankful I am to have had you as a teacher for all these years. I don't think there is a teacher out there that cares more about his students then you do, or a teacher that does so much to see his students achieve the best they can. And it's really paid off! I've had many successes and awesome memories that have come out of learning the drums through you and all the Nasha concerts and friends made through them has been awesome! I can't thank you enough for all you've taught me and the opportunities that have risen because of you. Thanks for being a friend and mentor to me for the past 4 years Mark.
Kelly & Richard Fry: Thank you for a wonderful year of lessons in 2015 for our son Nathan!! You are an inspiring, clever and amazing teacher!!
Scott Prentice:Thank you for the past four amazing years. It has been such an honour to have been taught by you and your patience is unbelievable. I am going to miss you very much as I will the drum lessons.
Steve & Jackie Bristow: As Ben comes towards the end of his lessons with you, I'd just like to take this opportunity to say a massive thank you for everything that you have done for him. I really feel that Ben's decision to start learning the drums has been a major turning point in his life so far. Succeeding in, and enjoying, drumming has given him a real sense of achievement and done wonders for his confidence. I truly believe that we all have just a few people throughout the course of our lives that really play a major part in who we are ... and I feel that you are one of those people for Ben. You have been an amazing teacher, a fantastic role model and also a great friend to Ben. I know he will carry very fond memories of his drum lessons for the rest of his life. Now that he is nearly 18, it won't be long until he can follow your band around the pub circuits!
Andrew & Rachelle Simkin: We have found Mark to be a most excellent drum teacher. As parents, we have watched our son grow in confidence and ability over the 3-4 years under Mark’s direction. Mark has encouraged him to practice (and practice!), play in the well organised public concerts that Mark put on at personal cost, and finally; motivated him to sit music exams to have something to show for all the hard work. We would highly recommend Mark to students and their parents alike. Keep up the good work Mark. You are a legend!
Arijana Lyng-Olive: (Birkdale Primary, Birkdale Intermediate and Birkenhead College) I was very fortunate to have a drum teacher like Mark, he taught me so much over the years and helped especially with my self confidence. By learning to play the drums I did a lot better in school and made a lot of musical friends. Being young and going to do the Trinity Guildhall examinations was extremely nerve-racking, but Mark made sure we were well prepared and after completing this on multiple occasions came a sense of achievement, as well as something to brag about. It taught me discipline (Mark telling me to practice, practice and practice) as well as constantly pushing the boundaries and getting many of his students to perform in front of a large crowd! Scary-but definitely worth it. I had a lot of fun and will never forget the experience. Thank you Mark!
Mandy & Eric Verdonk: Our 14 year old son, enjoys his lessons with Mark. He thinks he's a "good teacher" because he's "cool as"! Mark is an excellent drum teacher as he most importantly develops rapport with his students, he sets high expectations and inspires them with his own skills and enthusiasm.
Lee Hohaia (Chief Executive, Phamarcy Guild of NZ, Ltd: My son learnt drums from Mark for several years. Mark was always very positive and found things to praise! We enjoyed our association with Mark and would recommend anyone wanting to learn drums to get in touch with Drumadiddle.
Prisca Lorenza: (Murray's Bay Intermediate/Rangitoto College) Mark has been such a great teacher to be around. He makes learning enjoyable and he really understands me and changes his teaching style to suit my learning needs. I really appreciate Mark's guidance and appreciate the hard work he puts into us students.
Carly Gill: (Westlake Girls High School) Drum lessons with Mark are always fun and I learn so much every lesson. He's a great teacher who challenges you but let's you learn at your pace too. I really enjoyed his bands' Bollywood concert I got to perform in.
Stephanie Archer: When my son Ethan first expressed an interest in learning the drums he was only 6 years of age, I rang Mark, and had a chat with him. Although, Ethan was younger than his existing students, he was still very interested in meeting Ethan, to gauge his ability. Ethan although very young, bonded with Mark’s easy going nature straight away, and responded well to Mark’s teaching methods. His skills increased amazingly under Mark’s tuition. Mark always goes the ‘extra mile’ for his students, spending his time and money on organising concerts for them to 'experience' performing, and encouraging them always to better their skills by doing Trinity Exams, and of course practicing their rudiments! I have no hesitation in recommending Mark as a drum tutor, he encourages his students to better themselves without being overbearing and their skill levels increase while having fun!
Catrina Sewell: Mark is not only an accomplished drummer - he is also an excellent, thorough and dedicated teacher. I feel truly priveleged to have Mark teaching and guiding my son's musical development.
Maree Gray: Mark has taught my son Lucas (11yrs) the drums now for 2.5years. I have been blown away with the level that Lucas has reached in this short time as Mark is constantly challenging him with new types of music and different songs to play most weeks. Mark is so passionate about music and this is transferred through his teaching. He is a very talented muso and am glad that we found him!
Kim Onesti: My son Jordan has been taught by Mark for several years now. From a boy who could barely hold a stick, he is now playing songs from his favourite bands! Jordan is always keen for his lessons, as Mark keeps things interesting and varied. I would highly recommend him to anyone thinking of starting their child for lessons. Mark puts a lot of effort into his lessons and the results show. He is the best!
Jared Desvaux de Marigny: (Henderson High School) I had the pleasure of learning drums with Mark for 1 Year, before I went on to doing my Music Degree at the University of Auckland. Mark truly has a great approach to teaching and makes sure you understand concepts thoroughly before moving on to new material, so you don't develop gaps in your playing. While learning with Mark, I was pushed and challenged with several different styles of music and drumming techniques all at an advanced level, which really helped develop my skill set as a drummer for my audition into university later on that year. Not only is Mark a great teacher and drummer, he is also very friendly, professional, patient and most of all - he enjoys teaching and has a true passion to see his students succeed.If it weren't for Mark I doubt I would have passed the audition to get into my degree and I certainly wouldn't be playing drums professionally right now.
Mark & Wendy Helas: Jordan has had an awesome 2 years with you and he has loved it and we feel he has come a long way in ability and confidence so thank you so much for everything.
Janet Clare: I would just like to say how grateful both Tony and I are for your patience and perseverance with Cameron, we know he has not been the easiest of students. In your time teaching Cameron, over the past 3 years, he has always enjoyed his lessons with you even though at times, he found the drums very frustrating.
The Murray Clan; Wesley, Fiona and Leigh: Mark, just wanted to say what a fantastic drum teacher you are! Wes had such a great time learning the drums with you at such an early age. It gave him so much more confidence and you were so patient and encouraging. Thank you so much and all the best for the future.
Tae Heon Kim: (Westlake Boys High School) My experience with having drum lessons with you was really enjoyable and fun. You were very kind and helpful, and I think I have improved lot during that time. It was my pleasure to have you as my drum teacher. Thank you
Donna Patterson:: Taine really enjoys his lessons with you and I'm sure these have contributed to the successes enjoyed by both the rock band and jazz band he plays in at school .
Lynn Scott: Thank you Mark, you have made Matt’s day!!! It is a year today since his dad died, so it was a really good day for his Trinity College Grade 4 results to arrive. He is buzzing...Distinction Certificate!! Thanks for all the hard work you put in with him......he absolutely loves it!
Matthew Peacock: (Mairangi Bay Primary/Murray's Bay Intermediate/Rangitoto College) Mark is an amazing and inspiring drum teacher. I would recommend him to anyone looking to start drumming or anyone looking for a superior drum teacher to who they have now. He’s fantastic!!!
Carolyn Berry: Thank you very much for teaching Ethan this year. He has enjoyed his lessons and has devoped great skills & a lot more confidence
Trish Jones: Jordana has loved the drum lesson time with you and we all think so highly of you as a teacher. As a family we have really enjoyed being part of your musical experience and appreciate the way your family have welcomed us into your home.
Glenys & Peter Taylor: We'd like to thank you for all the time and effort you have put into making Waverley the good little drummer she is. She has thoroughly enjoyed the lessons she has had with you over the past few years and I really hope she keeps on practising now that full time employment has taken a hold on her. Peter and I have always enjoyed listening to the songs you have taught her and been more than pleased with how quickly she has picked them up. We just wish she had more confidence to play to others, but realise that that is something she is not entirely comfortable with. Thank you for your encouragement and we hope that your hard work will continue to be heard at our house.
Natasha Easey: (Rangitoto College) I've been through a few different drum teachers but all in all Mark has been the most organised and driven. He gives his students his complete attention during lessons, makes their learning his priority yet still manages to find time to do gigs with his bands. He has helped me achieve distinction in grades 2, 3, 4 and 5 in the Trinity College (London) examinations. His love for music and drumming has inspired me to continue drumming and I am currently doing a Jazz (Music) Degree at the University of Auckland. I hope to make drumming my career and I have Mark to thank for sharing his knowledge with me to help to get me where I am today."Thanks so much for everything you've done for me, for putting up with me and for teaching me not only how to drum but to improve my skills, make and achieve goals and gain confidence in myself. I will still keep in touch, maybe even teach you some Jazz!!! Thanks again and best of luck for your musical journey....
Jayan Bhikha: (Rangitoto College) I remember my first lesson I had with Mark when I was 10 years old as he had just arrived in New Zealand. From this day forward I never looked back as he always gave me the confidence and motivation to continue learning and playing the drums. Thank you for being a great tutor/mentor for the past 8 years. I have learnt so much from playing songs, creating & programming awesome beats and preparing for school and concert performances as well as exams.Mark always encouraged me to play at the highest level possible which helped me achieve distinction for grades 3-5 in the Trinity College (London) exams as well as Excellence in Music at NCEA Level 3. Mark is an awesome tutor and mentor and has taught me numerous drumming skills and tips to play professionally. I am currently pursuing my musical career at Auckland University and hopefully one day I can make Mark proud by becoming a successful musician, who knows I may even become famous (ha ha!) Thank you so much for giving up your time teaching me throughout these years. I will still keep in touch and all the best for the future.
Leah Hughes: Mark is a skilled drum tutor. He takes a lot of care in teaching the drumming basics that make it quicker to learn songs. He understands what beginners need with his own experience of teaching himself to drum. He does this on a very professional level with communicating at the students level and age, and creates a warm welcoming studio that inspires motivation over music."
David & Helen Freeman: Mark's passion and enthusiasm is really bringing the best out of Adam's drumming, Mark is patient but also knows when to push students with talent, his technical expertise is second to none - GO MARK!
Margot Trochhi: Mark, thank you for teaching and inspiring my son Angelo. He lives for his drumming and not a day goes by without him playing them. He is getting better and better. You have given him confidence and the skills to progress. He looks forward to Wednesdays and never forgets his sticks. Thank you once again .
Ben Bristow: (Birkenhead College) Thanks for the last 5 1/2 years of tutoring and inspiring me and for helping me to excel at my NCEA performances and even teaching me to read....sort of, ha ha ha!! Not only did I enjoy the lessons I also feel that I wouldn't play the way that I do today if I didn't learn the craft from the master himself, even a year of not having lessons has not even begun to deter the passion and love I have for drumming. A true testament. I hope to be as groovy as you one day!! Cheers for being an awesome teacher and now a genuine mate!!
Tracey McIntyre: David attended lessons with Mark for 2 years, he really enjoyed his lessons and made great progress. Mark has a great rapport with his students and is a fantastic teacher. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Mark to all.
Elaine Moore: Mark is an awesome teacher. His style means that pupils quickly learn to play songs, keeping lessons fun and interesting. My son loves him and is now having a blast in a rock band at school.
David Moore: (Murray's Bay Intermediate) I have been learning drums for 2 years now and the lessons are fun and relaxed...
Esther Toclo: (Henderson High School) Learning under Mark's guidance is a fantastic experience. His constant encouragement , surplus of patience & great taste in music , truly engaged and challenged me to keep getting better at playing. It is an honour to learn from you
Rach'el: Mark has been tutoring my daughter for a year now, in that time she has learnt lots and enjoys her lessons. He is a great teacher!
Penny Keatings: Mark is both a talented drum player and an excellent teacher. He is patient and understanding with my son, but at the same time he makes sure that the lessons are challenging and fun. He has the best interests of his pupils at heart at all times.