Student Spotlights: Young Drummers in Tooele County Rock the Studio at Josh Kastleman Drum Lessons

Josh Kastleman
Apr 30
3 min read

There’s nothing more rewarding than watching drum students complete full songs and take pride in their progress. At Josh Kastleman Drum Lessons, we help students in Tooele County, Utah — including Stansbury Park, Grantsville, Erda, and Lake Point — learn to play the music they love while building real musical skills. Over the past few weeks, several students hit exciting milestones by completing and recording full drum performances in our studio. These performances are now featured on YouTube!

Here’s a look at each student, the song they performed, and what makes each accomplishment worth celebrating:

Deacon – Seven Nation Army by The White Stripes

Watch Deacon’s performances

Deacon recently finished playing one of the most iconic rock songs of the 2000s — “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes. Originally played by Meg White, whose minimalist and raw drumming style is perfect for early learners, this song is a rite of passage for many beginner rock drummers. After completing the track, Deacon recorded his performance in the studio and added a White Stripes sticker to his collection — part of our fun reward system that keeps students motivated.

Marcus – Burning Heart by Survivor

Watch Marcus’s performances

Marcus brought serious energy to his rendition of “Burning Heart,” a powerful track by Survivor featured in Rocky IV. The song was originally recorded by Marc Droubay, Survivor’s drummer known for his punchy, anthemic style. Marcus captured that stadium-rock feel in his studio performance and earned a Survivor band sticker to mark his achievement.

Kohler – I’m Just a Kid by Simple Plan

Watch Kohler’s performances

Pop-punk energy was alive in the studio when Kohler completed “I’m Just a Kid” by Simple Plan. Originally performed by drummer Chuck Comeau, this track demands steady timing and explosive fills — and Kohler nailed it. Like our other students, he recorded a full performance in the studio and proudly added a Simple Plan sticker to his binder.

Kye – Train, Train by Blackfoot

Watch Kye’s performances

Kye took on a Southern rock classic with “Train, Train” by Blackfoot. The original track was driven by the powerful drumming of Jakson Spires, known for his hard-hitting and blues-infused rock style. Kye’s performance showed great control and feel, and he added a Blackfoot sticker to his growing collection of completed songs.

Ronan – Human by Rag’n’Bone Man

Watch Ronan’s performances

Ronan showed great maturity in his performance of “Human” by Rag’n’Bone Man. The song features a soulful, spacious groove originally recorded by Darren Heelis and studio drummer Ash Soan, known for his tasteful and nuanced playing. Ronan brought sensitivity and precision to the track, and his studio recording reflects his growing skill behind the kit.

Sage – Say It Ain’t So by Weezer

Watch Sage’s performances

Sage wrapped up “Say It Ain’t So” by Weezer — a 90s alt-rock staple powered by the steady and dynamic drumming of Patrick Wilson. This track is a great exercise in pacing, volume control, and musical expression. After completing it, Sage recorded his performance and earned a Weezer sticker to commemorate his progress.

What Sets These Lessons Apart?

All of these students are learning through a system that combines customized instruction, studio recording, and the Drums In Color method — a visual learning system that helps drummers of all abilities learn faster. Students not only get to choose their songs but also receive custom band stickers, biannual recital opportunities, and free in-studio recordings as they progress. It’s one of the many reasons why Josh Kastleman Drum Lessons is a top choice for families seeking quality music education in Tooele County.