I’m Tony Mest, a professional drummer and instructor with over 25 years of experience sharing my love for rhythm and music. I started playing drums at age two and grew up learning by playing in bands, which taught me early on that drumming is most powerful when it serves the music.

I currently teach at School of Rock in Evanston, where I work with students of all ages and skill levels in private lessons and group ensemble settings. Whether someone is picking up sticks for the first time or preparing to perform on stage, my teaching centers on meeting each student where they are and helping them grow from there.

My approach is music-first: technique matters, but the goal is to make the drums feel expressive, musical, and fun! Lessons can focus on fundamentals like stick control, timekeeping, and reading, or on learning the songs and styles you’re excited about (rock, R&B, hip-hop, jazz, indie, and more). The path is flexible and personalized to each student.

I offer drum lessons at my home studio in Evanston, where there’s a full drum kit ready to go, and I also travel for house-call lessons in Evanston, Wilmette, Skokie, Rogers Park, and nearby North Side Chicago neighborhoods. Virtual drum lessons are also available for students who prefer a remote option.

Whether you’re just getting started or looking to take your playing to the next level, I’d love to support your musical growth.

Let’s play!