DEREK SHARP

Topeka Drum & Hand Drum Instructor

Instrument(s) and Levels Taught

• Derek teaches snare drum, drum set, and a variety of hand drums (djembe, congas, doumbek, etc.). He accepts all levels of students from first day beginners to accomplished professionals.

Education History

• Derek holds a B.A. in Music from Washburn University. He has studied with Dr. Tom Morgan, Dr. Phil Faini, Chris Lacinak, Murat Coskun, Glen Velez, Jim Chapin, Todd Strait, Dennis Rogers, and Steve Houghton.

Teaching History

• Derek started teaching in 1987 and has been doing so almost continuously ever since. He has been teaching at Supersonic Music since its opening in 1998.

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Performance History and Influences

• Derek was a member of the ethnic folk group Voyager and has performed with Kerry Livgren, Irving Curtis, various local musicians and imaginary friends. His biggest musical influences are Neil Peart, Bill Stewart, The King's Singers and acapella choirs.​

Other Thoughts, Hobbies, Etc.

• When not working at Supersonic or building TreeHouse drums, Derek enjoys studying God, Italian, and Home Improvement. He's also quite a cook and is always willing to prattle on about things theological. He believes students should have patience, have fun, and look for connections!​

Contact Information

• Derek can be contacted through Supersonic Music.