Drum Lessons

All students must have access to an instrument. For drum students, that includes:

A basic drum set is preferred for practice at home. This would include the essentials (bass drum, snare drum, hi-hat, ride cymbal). Most starter kits come with these essentials.
Students may begin with a practice pad and/or snare drum, but should aim to transition to a drum set as they progress in their lessons.
An electric drum set can be a suitable option for those with limited storage space or who need to manage sound levels more easily.
Drum sticks

Instructor Mark Riggenbach

Teaches Drum Students ages 8 - Adult

Drum Set and/or Hand Drums

Beginner - Advanced Students

Mark Riggenbach, aka Markondrums, is a lifelong music lover who has been playing drums professionally for more than 30 years. Mark began studying music at Almond-Bancroft Highschool. His musical journey continued at the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay, where he served as band leader and drummer for The Sound Idea, the university’s award-winning show choir.

That experience led to his first professional gig at The Heidel House in Green Lake, performing five nights a week with Mike Briester and The Heidel Singers. Since then, Mark’s deep listening skills, steady groove, and versatility across many styles of music have kept him busy performing and recording with Wisconsin artists including Galynne Goodwill, The Delta Jets, and Eddie Danger.

Mark brings that experience to beginner drum lessons with a simple philosophy: start with the basics, learn to listen, find the groove, and have fun making music. His lessons are designed to give new drummers a comfortable, encouraging place to learn at their own pace while building skills and confidence behind the kit.

No experience necessary. Just bring your curiosity and a willingness to make some noise.

Instructor Tony Wagner

Teaches Drum Students age 10 - Adult

Students must have access to a snare drum or drum set and be willing to practice.

Intermediate - Advanced Students

Drummer/Percussionist Tony Wagner is known for being one of the most solid and groove-oriented musicians in the music industry. His ability to bring musicians together while creating an unmistakable style of drumming has made Tony one of the most “on call” live performance drummers in the Midwest.

Originally from Appleton, WI, Tony studied at the famed Lawrence Conservatory of Music, where he began his career with the nationally known jazz fusion group Matrix. After leaving Matrix, Tony became a long-time member of Janet Planet’s jazz combo.

In the Fox Cities, Tony also founded and operated the widely known Tony’s Drum Shops. These stores catered to drummers and percussionists. In addition, he became well known for his reputation in educating young drummers.

Tony has worked with a variety of musicians from around the Midwest and beyond. He is pleased to bring his specialized skills to central Wisconsin and is excited to take on new students.

He continues his career as an independent artist, bringing world-class musicians to the area through various venues, including the Summer Nights Concerts hosted by the Waupaca Community Arts Board and the jazz stage at Arts on the Square.

Registration

Before we schedule your lessons, we need to understand the student’s current level of experience and their goals with the instrument.

Please complete the Music Lesson Registration Form. We will reach out to you to discuss the details of the lessons. We look forward to speaking with you soon!

Music Lesson Registration