Kevin Wayne Jones
Professional Drummer
Instrument:
Drum setDate that student started taking lessons: Since 1994
Present Career: Music (Drums/Percussion)
Date statement taken: 11/7/2006
Time of statement: 11:38:39 AM
I have learned a variety of styles, techniques, concepts, and approaches that allow me to serve the music and the
artist appropriately in whatever musical setting I am placed in. I have also learned a great deal about how to
practice effectively and develop my playing so that it is authentic to the music I am playing. Reading is very
important in Tim's curriculum, but he also stresses the importance of listening and being able to improvise.
Changes in my playing:
The biggest change I noticed were the comments that people were making about how much my playing was
improving. My ears grew more than anything. I developed the ability to listen and comprehend what some of my
greatest influences were doing and incorporate it into my playing. My technique, pocket, independence, and overall
understanding of the instrument have increased to allow me to explore ideas that I once thought were out of my
reach.
Recommending Tim as a Music/Trap set/Percussion Teacher
I would absolutely recommend Tim as an instructor because Tim has a unique gift of being able to communicate
the subject matter in such a way that you can grasp the fullness of what he is trying to impart into your playing. He
also cares very deeply about the development of an individual’s character so that they will be good stewards of the
gifts that have been entrusted to them. Tim has radically changed my playing, but more importantly he has invested
a great deal of time and energy into mentoring me as a person so I will be able to make a positive impact on the
culture whether I'm playing drums or not.
I couldn't do what I am doing without the guidance that Tim provided. I have replaced drummers who could play
circles around me in a dual, but they didn't know how to serve. Tim's teaching has given me the tools to be able to
bring musical excellence with me on any gig, and also be a person of integrity long after the music has ended. Most
importantly, Tim helped strengthen an already firm foundation of faith in Jesus. No matter what life or the music
industry may throw my way, my hope remains in the one who has saved me, redeemed me, empowered me, and
guides me every step of the way. Praise the Lord!
Other Comments
Tim, you are a wonderful teacher, mentor, and friend. I am blessed by the part you have played and continue to play
in this amazing journey. Many blessings on you my friend.
Sincerely,
Kevin Wayne Jones
445 Westcrest Drive
Nashville, TN. 37211
Email:
d4j272@yahoo.com615 480-7678
Alford Dee Myers
(Drummer/Percussionist, Light & Sound-Audio Visual Technician)
Tim Pope as my Drumset & Percussion Teacher
When I started to take drum lessons’ from Tim, I was just able to play a
few rock beats, which I figured out on my own. After the first lesson, I was
able to understand the basics of reading music. From there on it has been a
progression of listening to and learning new styles i.e. Jazz, Latin, Big Band,
& Funk. Also the sub-categories of these styles i.e. Be-Bop, Swing, Cha-
Cha’s, Waltz, Salsa, Meringue, and Ranchero, plus many other styles
I have found Tim to be a very diligent teacher, who sees nothing but
success for anyone he chooses to take as a student.
Since starting with Tim, I have had opportunities to play with different
individuals such as Tony Melendez and with Timpobande Band. (Tim’s
Band).
I look forward to finishing the course, and all of the opportunities that his
professional training will prepare me for.
I would recommend Tim as a Teacher to those who would like to
successfully learn any instrument that he teaches and who would like to
receive a wealth of information on how to succeed in the music industry. As
any teacher worth his salt, he has expectations for his students and has a very
nice balance of discipline vs. encouragement.
His experience, professionalism, and attitude speak for themselves. His
knowledge of the Entertainment Industry is very extensive and he is willing
to share this information with any of his students, to prepare them for any
opportunity in the field of music that may present itself.
Alford Myers
2402 E State Hwy 248
Reeds Spring, MO 65737
Joshua Arnold Price
Full Time College Student
Instrument:
DrumsetLessonLength: 7 Years
PresentCareer: Full Time College Student
Date statement taken: 11/9/2006
Time of statement: 10:44:14 PM
I have learned the Basic fundamentals of Music such as Reading, and charting Music. I think that it is so crucial for
a Drum student to learn these key fundamentals to become a competative musician in the music scene. I also
learned a few styles like Latin and jazz. I also learned discipline.
I noticed that my personality changed and I became more of a focused person. I have taken this into many different
aspects in my life.
Recommending Tim as a Music/Trap set/Percussion Teacher
I would definitely recommend Tim Pope because he is a person who is willing to give a student 200% as long as the
Student is willing to give 100%. He really cares about his students and he is very talented and knows what he is
talking about when it comes to music.
Musical Training
Tim’s instruction has again taught me the discipline that is needed to study.
OtherComments
I highly recommend Timothy Pope for anyone who really wants to learn the fundamentals of reading and writing,
and playing music. He is a true master at his craft and he is willing to share his god given gift with others who have
the desire. May God Bless Tim Pope
Joshua Arnold Price
1635 East 220th st
Carson, California. 90745
joshua_price@msn.com
(310) 409-3247
Josh Shiloh Roberts
High School Student/Professional Musician, (Branson, Mo.)
Instrument: Drum set
Lesson Length: 4 Years
Present Career: High School Student/ Works - Playing in "The From Patsy To Present Show" at the IMAX theatre in Branson, MO.
Date statement taken: 3/31/2007
Time of statement: 8:06:01 PM
After taking lessons from Tim for 4 years, I have Learned: To read: more fluently, To play: Different time
signatures, sticking, fulcrum, speed, independence, better time keeping, rudiments, stroke rolls, triplets and all other
types of strokes, & Rolls. (eighth notes, sixteenth,ect.) Different types of musical styles: Country, Rock, Jazz, Latin,
Swing, Funk. The different books that I have and/or am in: Syncopation, Rolls-Rolls-Rolls, Latin Rhythms, Jazz
Cookbook, Advanced Techniques for the Modern Drummer. I have learned how to be more fluent in playing these
styles and be able to set up and care for the drum set, and warm-up/ preparation before playing, being diligent in
practicing, practicing to achieve speed, how to schedule out my week/month, and setting goals; not only musical
but also spiritual. Spiritual: To always keep focused on your goals and God, to set aside time for Him, to always
practice for Him, in everything you do, do it for God, to play for Jesus, he showed me an image of what I saw that
maybe one day I can be like (Tim).
I’ve noticed a change in my ability, and also a huge change in my form and being relaxed which is what I forgot to
say is that he showed me how to play more relaxed and with better form which in turn has given almost twice the
speed that I would have obtained with my old very tense and "uptight" form. I have, like I previosly stated, grown
spiritually in my walk with God. But just obviously my regular ability was vastly improving.
I would Absolutely recommend Tim to others as a Music Instructor, because Tim basically took me from
ground up, yea sure I knew a couple of licks coming into this, but I never knew what I would get the awesome
opportunity to go through with him. I had three previous drum teachers but Tim is a great influence and a great
motivation! He obtains a lot of energy which you can't help but get exited when your around him.
I would also recommend Tim as an instructor because everything that I'm playing has either been a direct
reproduction of what he taught me or it is some assignment that made me able to play everything in my show.
(which is country, fast to slow ballads, rock, blues, and some modern.)
Competitions that Tim took me through. I played the songs: “Wipeout”, and “Sing, Sing, Sing”. I was a featured
performer at the Braschler Theater, Oct. 9, 2004. 1st Place in the “Mountain Grove Star Search Talent Show”,
October 9, 2004 , 1st Place in KY3/Empire Fair Talent Contest, July 27, 2003. Featured returning Winner at
Springfield KY3 Talent show, 2004 Finalist in quarterly Mid Western Idol Competition, May 23, 2004 *(Only
Child Competing) 1st Place in Division, 3rd Place overall, Mid Western Idol Competition, Feb. 27, 2004 *(" ")
Featured Performer, Hollister Grape Festival, Sept. 6, 2003 1st place, Springfield KY3/Empire Fair Talent Contest,
July 27,2003 1st Place, Branson Ed Mcmann Talent Search, at Majestic Theater, Dec. 5, 2002
Thank you so much Tim for everything that you have taught me and I can't wait for more!! lol God Bless.
Josh Shiloh Roberts
1345 Sycamore Church Road
Branson, MO. 65616
www.Drummingjosh01@aol.com
(417) 335-5659
Cameron Stewart Richardson
(College Student)
Instrument: Drums
LessonLength: 7 years
PresentCareer: High School /(Entered College September – 2007)
Date: 1/1/2007
Time: 10:40:44 AM
Tim has tought me how to play almost every style of music along with reading it as well. I have been taught how
to be independent with my music as well.
I noticed that I could make my own beats up and figure out how to put them into a groove.
I would recommend Tim as a Music/Drum set/Percussion Instructor because Tim is one of the nicest people I
have ever met. He is very easy to work with and knows how to get through to you. He can also play many different
instruments which helps in practice.
The musical training that I have received from Tim is helpful in my present situation because I can play in
the high school jazz band and I already knew how to play all the music in that class without any trouble.
If any one was to have a music teacher Tim Pope would be the one to have.
Cameron Stewart Richardson
10651 Elm Rd.,
Carthage, Missouri. 64836
Pwr4567@ipa.net
(417) 358-8375
Casey P. McClain
(Professional Drummer)
Instrument: Drums & percussion
Lesson Length: over 8 years
Present Career: Professional drummer
Date: 1/3/2007
Time: 10:30:32 PM
Through Tim’s Instruction, I can read different percussive charts and have an understanding of different genres of
music. Not only did Tim Pope introduce different genres to me as a student, but provided an understanding that I
had to self saturate with music from different eras and many different artists & styles.
Changes in my playing:
Under the educational plan of Mr. Pope, I have been introduced to the how's and why's of music. I also understand,
(though Tim’s personal counseling in the lessons), the opportunities in the music field, business practices & road
survival techniques, and other extremely helpful concepts that can carry me as a professional drummer/musician. I
can use my education in many different venues with different bands because I know how the fundamentals work for
different genres.
Recommendations of Tim to Others:
As a teacher, I would recommend any student to take private lessons from Mr. Pope. Unfortunately, the education
provided by our school systems is lacking in the "one on one" dimensions of music. If a student were not to fully
understand, that student may be left in the dark without fully understanding why and how music that is written is to
be interpreted & executed.
Interpretation of music can be quite complex. Without a proper education, we are all vulnerable not to achieve our
goals in life. Even as an instructor, Tim Pope can mentor and sculpt students from the educational aspects to
acquire employment in the music industry.
Casey P. McClain
2406 S. Dollison
Springfield, Missouri 65807
mcclainmosm@sbcglobal.net
(417) 877-1363
Dylan Whitney Pratt
(Grade School Student/Parents Comments- Dennis & Kelly Pratt)
Instrument: Drums
Lesson Length: 5 years
Present Career: Grade School Student
Date: 2/12/2007
Time: 7:45:57 AM
What has Dylan learned so far in his lessons with Tim?
Dylan has learned to read music, has learned great rhythmic skills, rock music, ballads, and to feel good about
himself while performing.
What changes have you noticed in his playing?
Dylan became very confident with his skills learned, which helped him progress quickly. He was able to keep time
with every new song he would try, and he would retain everything that was taught to him.
Recommendations
We would definitely recommend Tim to others as a private teacher because he makes learning fun, he's very
patient, and he's so good with kids. Having a professional musician who has had lots of experience is such a plus
and it gives our child a mentor to reach his goals in music.
Musical Training
The musical training that Dylan has received so far has been very helpful, because this is his passion. He knows he
wants to be a performer, and drums are his instrument of choice. Also, in music class at school, he can use the
information he has been taught so far from Tim and relate it to what he is learning in the classroom.
Other Comments
We just feel very fortunate to be able to have a gifted and caring musician that shows compassion for Dylan, and
can give him the tools he needs to succeed in his dreams.
Dylan Whitney Pratt
(Dennis & Kelly Pratt – Parents)
229 Sharyhill Road
Branson, MO. 65616
denmusi@suddenlink.net
(417) 335-3581
(417) 337-3711 – Cell
Joshua Martin Silvy
(Delivery/Customer Service Supervisor USPS-Drummer for brandnewchurch.com) Pg.1 of 2
Instrument: Drums
LessonLength: 2-3 years
PresentCareer: Delivery/Customer Service Supervisor USPS Drummer for brandnewchurch.com
Date: 2/11/2007
Time: 2:24:21 PM
What Have You Learned From Lessons Up To This Point?
Reading: I learned how to readcompletely from Tim. I new basic reading but Tim really developed my reading skills including the tempo at
which I could read. Independence: My independence has improved tremendously, I can't say enough about
the four way coordination I am gaining. Time Keeping: Has improved immensely. People that heard me play
before and hear me now can't believe it. Jazz, Rock, rudiments, Rolls and Syncopation: I feel like I've been
in the Chapin book forever, it has really challenged me, especially in playing softly and in independence. You
notice real quickly that everything Tim gives you, he gives you for a reason and it is important. If you slack
on any of it, it comes back to haunt. My advice is to listen to him the FIRST time he tells you to do something
LOL. Probably the the most important thing I learned from Tim is to put God first in everything you do in
your life and the business and other things will take care of themselves. Tims character and zeal for the Lord
is what I hope have rubbed off on me the most. There may not be much that Tim doesn't know about the
business but he understands that all the knowledge in the world is useless without the right attitude and
Godly character. And for this he is my personal mentor.
Changes in my playing ability:
I noticed a vast improvement in all of the things I listed above. My practicehabits also improved greatly, I'm still working on trying to complete that practice pyramid he's always
talking about but my practice habits did improve greatly. Overall, everything about my playing improved to
a level you wouldn't believe unless you had seen me play before I started taking lessons from Tim. I wish I
would have recorded myself before taking lessons. I do have audio recordings that just blow my mind when I
go back and listen to them and listen to current recordings
Would you Recommend Tim as a Drum/Music Instructor?
Yes, emphatically, and most off all because Tim isa Godly man who puts Christ first in everything he does. This is a man that could be in L.A. or N.Y. making
a lot more money, but he chooses to stay in the place God has called him and utilize the gifts God has given
him to try and reach people for Christ. His talents and teaching ability is secondary to his ministry.
Secondly, you will not find a more talented nor more schooled and technically sound drummer anywhere
around this area. Unless you have the time and money to go to L.A. or N.Y. to learn from some other Pro,
Tim is far and wide the best option around and can play with anyone you could find in those locations as
anyway. Well worth the investment.
Is The Musical Training That You Have Received From Tim Helpful In Your Present Career?
Absolutely, Icould not have performed at that level without Tims teaching. I owe everything I have become as a drummer to God first and Tim Pope
OtherComments:
I count it an honor and a privileged to have Known Mr. Pope and not only for what hehas taught me about drums and the business but also because of the example in Christ that he has given me.
He has personally ministered to me with his walk. I heard someone say one time that they would much
rather see a sermon then listen to one. Tim's life is a living breathing example of Godly wisdom and
character. If you are even considering learning percussion, bass or piano, I would above anyone else I can
even think of, recomend Tim Pope and that goes for any of the big pro's as well. What you will gain in
personal one on one teaching as well as Christ honoring mentorship will be invaluable to you. I went from
playing in my downstairs to playing for one of the largest and fastest growing churches in Arkansas at Brand
New Church. Over 1200 people each Sunday and I couldn't have done it without the talents God gave me
and the training and mentorship He gave me in Tim. I honestly believe God knew exactly what I needed in a
teacher and provided him. Tim you are an inspiration and a brother to me, thank you. Your Friend Josh
Silvy Visit brandnewchurch.com for a true worship experience. "May the Lamb that was slain receive the
full reward for his suffering" Deny and crucify rather than rationalize and justify!
Joshua Martin Silvy
#5 Westwood Dr.
Harrison, Arkansas. 72601
dwellinme@alltel.net
brandnewchurch.com
Cell Phone: (870) 688-2546
Ryan J. Hurn
(Professional Drummer/Musician)
Instrument: Drumset
LessonLength: September 2000 -September 2002
PresentCareer: Professional Musician
Date: 12/13/2007
Time: 5:01:50 PM
Tim's Lessons were very structured and organized with a variety of musical concepts: music theory, technique,
independence, reading studies, videos, and metrically/musically consistent time, all of which were taught within a
variety of musical styles.
Tim's lessons instilled an awareness of time and independence that I had previously not possessed and gave me the
resources and methods necessary to practice and further develop these concepts.
Tim Pope is an extremely giving and caring person. He's a very spiritual human being who will go out of his way
for his students, and cares about each one of them as musicians and individuals. There is a lot to learn from Tim,
that's for sure!
All of the things Tim teaches are relevant and necessary to have a successful career in the music industry.
After completing studies with Tim, I went on to attend North Texas State University. After Graduating North
Texas, I returned home and began working with Branson Missouri Artist, Shoji Tabuchi, and am presently
performing with Les Brown.
Ryan J. Hurn
P.O. Box 1646
Branson, MO. 5615-1646
ryanhurn2mac.com
www.myspace.com/ryanhurnmusic
(417) 598-2075