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About your Frame Drum Teacher
Hello, I'm Marla… I am one of the few female frame drum specialists in the world today.
Having studied music since I was three years old, music is my first love and greatest passion! I hold a BFA & MFA in Percussion and have been fortunate to study with some of the most world-renowned, inspiring teachers and leading masters in frame drum, Indian and West African drumming.
Delighted to pass on what I’ve learned, I’ve now been teaching for over 25 years. I have seen, first-hand, the amazing power of music to help heal and bring joy. Over 15 years ago, I first started helping students online, when that kind of learning was a strange new world.
The Frame Drum Academy online is my dream child. Born in 2015, we currently have hundreds of happy students and are growing by the day!
Here's what Marla's students say (testimonials):
“Marla is a brilliant musician and teacher. I have been so impressed with her detailed, easily-digested lessons that lead the student step by step through frame drumming and practice techniques. She also is extraordinarily generous of her time and encouragement. I highly recommend the Frame Drum Academy Online.”
Linda Schneider
“There is nothing more heartwarming and encouraging for a student than when the teacher is not only *as* inspired as are her eager students, but is even *more* so. That’s Marla! Really clearly made and well thought-out videos. In addition to the practical hands-on training, the spiritual element of the course is an ever-present thread running through all the teachings. I’m sure there’re loads more good things I can say about FDA, but my bottom line is this: If you’re trying to decide where to study online, stop right here. (And if you’re even deliberating whether it’s really possible to learn online, have no fear. It really works!)”
Laary Cemel
““I just love Frame Drum Academy Online. Never thought that I could learn how to play the frame drum through an online course. It is so amazing how I can play after just 6 months. Marla is such an incredible and lovely teacher. I highly recommend Marlas Frame Drum Academy Online.. You get so much for your money. I can't thank Marla enough for her passion and love for the academy and her patience for the student”
Maya Gold
“After taking the program, my technique is better, my timing feels more solid, and I feel more confident in my playing. Marla is a world-class player and teacher, and she’s studied with the best players in the world. Her teaching style is clear, methodical and fun. There is quite a bit of material in this program. The course is over but because we have life-time access to the material. Just to do it!!”
Russell Charno
“It’s quite possibly the most fun, positive, dynamic, spiritual, exciting, fulfilling, creative, etc. etc,etc....activity I’ve ever engaged in. I love it and I love this academy. Marla loves the drum and it’s totally contagious. I have learned so much and am infinitely grateful for this opportunity.”
Barbara Flatch
"I went from not playing a musical instrument at all to drumming for my yoga classes in a couple of months. Not only has Marla and her Frame Drum Academy turned me into a musician; but I also have increased my confidence, my desire to share my talents with others, and my passion for music and rhythm. I cannot recommend this program enough!"
Meaghan Beishline, Pennsylvania
“I love studying with Marla. She is pure inspiration. Her Frame Drum Academy is super accessible and filled with tons of great learning. I The way Marla teaches frame drumming is all about body brain and soul! Lots of soul!”
Marilyn McLaughlin, Los Angeles
"Joining Marla’s Frame Drum Academy pushed me through the boundries – I now practice strokes in three different styles. It gives a lot more opportunities to combine with my songs.
Bodil Kreative Jorgenson, Finland
"Marla’s enthusiasm and heartfelt commitment to her students shone through every aspect of the program. The instructional videos were very clear and I love having lifelong access to the them."
Janis McCallen, Ontario, Canada
"Marla is the most wonderful teacher!! Everything is completely accessible and she breaks down the lessons so perfectly."
Emma Kitchen
"Amazing detail & easy to follow.Highly Recommend. I was hesitant about how much I could learn online, but was pleasantly surprised how worthwhile the course was in improving my technique & playing."
Jennifer Thomas, Sydney, Australia
"Marla’s teaching is EXCELLENT and opened up so much for me."
Susan Freeman, Ohio
"I have been so impressed with Marla’s detailed, easily-digested online lessons that lead the student step by step through frame drumming and practice techniques. I HIGHLY recommend the Frame Drum Academy Online.”
Linda Schineder, Ohio
"I participated in Marla’s brilliantly presented Frame Drum 202. I work with the videos on a regular basis to learn new concepts and to refresh myself on more familiar techniques - Yet I have barely scratched the surface of the volume of techniques presented. I GIVE THIS PROGRAM A 5 STARS. No one has ever done anything this important for us who crave to learn this material."
Norma Kaplis, New York
"My experience with the Frame Drum Academy 101 and 202 has been amazing. The online courses are clear, easy to follow and a master class of technique and basics of frame drumming."
Sherry Belliveau , Florida