FD 101 (2024): THE ULTIMATE TRAINING COURSE FOR BEGINNERS

Your step-by-step journey to becoming a skilled & confident Frame Drummer in just 4 months!

Diamond-Seperator
Diamond-Seperator

Hello potentially amazing Frame Drummer,

I’m Marla Leigh and I’m going to help you

DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF FRAME DRUMMING

so you can:

Walk to your own beat

With exquisite drumming skills focused on technique, repertoire and confidence.

Create rhythms in the world

With inspiration & support from teachers & students, share your drumming gifts at home and beyond.

Drum an extraordinary life

Experience the creativity, passion, devotion and health benefits of drumming!

A word from your teacher ~ Grammy-nominated percussionist & passionate musician, Marla Leigh:

DO ANY OF THE FOLLOWING SOUND FAMILIAR?


  • You want to LEARN TO PLAY THE FRAME DRUM, but lack inspiration
  • You dream of DRUMMING WITH OTHERS, but don’t have the confidence
  • You need to boost your ENERGY and HEALTH, but don’t know how.
  • You would love to EXPRESS YOURSELF CREATIVELY, but don’t have the skills.

If you answered ‘YES’ to at least ONE of the above, then this is the course for YOU!

Join Waitlist!

“I consider Marla to be the one of the very top percussion performers in the US of today. She is well known in the community for her virtuosity and artful skill with hand drums.”
~ Glen Velez, 4-time Grammy-winning percussionist & Marla's mentor

HOW YOU WILL BECOME A DRUMMER

The first sound you ever heard was your mother’s heartbeat. You're already a Natural-Born Drummer!

Now take it to the next level with...

  • STEP-BY-STEP LEARNING

    Proven teaching method with professional musician and educator of 25+ years. Passionate, dedicated and friendly, Marla inspires focus, progress and results, whether or not you currently own a drum, whether or not you’ve ever picked a drum before!

  • A PREMIUM COURSE TAILORED TO YOU

    This 4 month, 4 module comprehensive video training program is designed for the absolute beginner and those with basic playing experience (less than a year).

  • PRACTICAL SKILLS

    Gain ALL the skills you need (techniques, rhythms, compositions & improvisation) to drum in a circle, at a family gathering, in your work or simply for joy.

  • SKILLS FOR LIFE

    Our course will immerse you in the rich world of frame drumming and rhythm, unblocking emotions and re-tuning of your body, mind, heart and soul.

  • COMMUNITY LOVE

    Strength in numbers! Join Academy students worldwide for 24/7 support, inspiration, sharing and friendship.

CREATIVITY, HEALTH, JOY & PASSION:

This is The Frame Drum Academy experience!

Join Waitlist!

“Marla is a brilliant musician and teacher, extraordinarily generous of her time and encouragement. I highly recommend The Frame Drum Academy.”
~ Linda Schneider, Founder, Heartland Rhythms,

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

Designed like a Frame Drum College Course (with a soulful twist)

At 1/4 the cost!

Your 16-week FRAME DRUM 101 COURSE includes:


  • Over 300 video tutorials!
  • Eight inspiring BONUS trainings!
  • Four Live Q&A/Coaching calls direct with Marla
  • 24/7 private facebook group support
  • Weekly video downloads with PDFs & homework!
  • Special Academy kick-off call & Drum Ceremony with Marla!
  • Fundamental playing strokes in the 3 playing styles (lap, upright and freehand)
  • Art and heart of rhythm (Indian rhythm theory & solkattu)
  • Motivating drum compositions reflecting techniques learned
  • Traditional world & original rhythms
  • Improvisation & composing tips
  • Essential musicianship skills

PLUS:

  • LIFETIME access to all videos/materials
  • LEARN in your own time, on any device
  • A NEW, CONFIDENT, MUSICAL and PASSIONATE you!
Join Waitlist!

THE FOUR CORE LEARNING MODULES

1-FD-101-Syllabus

With so many amazing elements included,
Frame Drum 101 is designed to give you OUTSTANDING results...


Our students are people just like YOU:
Music lovers, teachers, therapists, counsellors, healers, sacred circle leaders and human beings.

Our graduates are now leading workshops, facilitating drum circles, drumming in their community, incorporating drumming into their professional work, playing in bands, composing their own music, healing themselves and others and
conquering the world, ONE beat at a time…

MODULE #1 - Freehand Style

Topics covered:

  • Basic playing strokes (Doum, Tak, Ka, Pa, Brush)
  • Persian ‘Reiss Roll’ techniques & exercises
  • 8-beat finger roll techniques & exercises
  • Practice rhythms
  • Groovin’ composition using techniques learned

MODULE #2 - Lap Style

Topics covered:

  • Basic playing strokes (Doum, Tak, Ka, Pa, Brush)
  • Single snapping techniques & exercises
  • Double snapping techniques & exercises
  • 4-finger “Jazz Roll” techniques & exercises
  • Practice rhythms
  • Groovin’ composition using techniques learned

MODULE #2 - Lap Style

Topics covered:

  • Basic playing strokes (Doum, Tak, Ka, Pa, Brush)
  • Single snapping techniques & exercises
  • Double snapping techniques & exercises
  • 4-finger 'Jazz Roll' techniques & exercises
  • Practice rhythms
  • Groovin’ composition using techniques learned

MODULE #3 - Upright Style

Topics covered:

  • Basic playing strokes (Doum, Tak, Ka, Pa)
  • Alternate ‘Pa’ stroke technique & exercises
  • 4-finger ‘Jazz roll’ technique & exercises
  • Practice rhythms
  • Groovin’ composition using techniques learned

MODULE #4 -The Art & Heart of Rhythm

Topics covered:

  • In-depth exploration of rhythm
  • Intro to North and South Indian rhythm systems
  • Solkattu South Indian vocal percussion & exercises
  • Drumming, counting and reciting practices
  • Improvising & composing exercises in 4, 5, and 7 beat time-cycles (fun!)

MODULE #4 -The Art & Heart of Rhythm

Topics covered:

  • In-depth exploration of rhythm
  • Intro to North and South Indian rhythm systems
  • Solkattu South Indian vocal percussion & exercises
  • Drumming,counting and reciting practices
  • Improvising & composing exercises in 4, 5, and 7 beat time-cycles (fun!)

PLUS 8 BONUS TRAININGS!

As if over 275 video tutorials and Lifetime Access weren't enough

look at the EIGHT extras we’re including as gifts for you and your learning!

BONUS #1

Four Live Q&A/Coaching Sessions with Marla (60min)

Email Marla with any questions you have about your learning and she will answer you personally LIVE. Dates and details here.

BONUS #2

Special Masterclasses!

Boost your learning with this magical quartet of live and replay Masterclasses:

  • World Reknown Frame Drum Specialist (live training)
  • Glen Velez ~ 4x Grammy-winning frame drummer (replay)
  • Christine Stevens ~ Acclaimed music therapist (replay)
  • Jim Santi Owen ~ Indian drumming specialist (replay)
  • Patrick Cooperman ~ Vice President of Cooperman Frame Drums (live training)

BONUS #3

Drumming Essentials Training!

This action-packed 9-video training series covers ALL your music essentials to get you drumming beyond your dreams!

BONUS #4

"When the Drummers Were Women"

Enjoy featured slides from Layne Redmond’s acclaimed book on the ancient feminine frame drum lineage*.

*Material courtesy of Layne Redmond + Golden Seed Production

BONUS #5

The Rhythm Vault

This essential 'vault' features traditional & original rhythms to keep you inspired and groovin’ for a lifetime!

BONUS #6

Drumming for Health!

This body-and-soul-boosting bonus features a vast drumming and wellness learning library, including a gentle stretch class made specially for our students!

BONUS #7

Private FB group

Exclusive access to The Frame Drum Academy’s private Facebook group ~ stay supported, inspired, motivated & connected 24/7.

BONUS #8

CHANTING & DRUMMING

Learn to drum & sing healing chants from around the world

Join Waitlist!
2-FD-101-Lifetime-Access-To-The-Program

Video downloads, Live Q&A/Coaching, Bonus session schedules:


Video Downloads Live Q&A/Coaching with Marla Bonus Trainings

“Marla has created a wonderful curriculum that is easy for a beginner to follow. Well worth the investment! I took both 101 and 202 and feel confident to improvise, teach, and play with others.”
~ Susan Freeman, Student

WHAT YOU WILL ACHIEVE...

FABULOUS FRAME DRUM SKILLS
 

  • Exude confidence in the 3 frame drum playing styles.
  • Fill your ‘rhythm toolbox’ with traditional Middle Eastern, North African, Persian, Indian & original rhythms.
  • Create fun drum compositions to play by yourself or share with others!

AMAZING MUSIC SKILLS
 

  • Attain a deeper understanding of rhythm (using metronome, time signatures, meters and natural inspirations).
  • Improvise and compose freely, with creative zest.
  • Become a one woman/one man band with frame drum, foot-bells and voice!

DRUMMING DREAMS
 

  • Gain mentorship, inspiration & support to drum beyond your dreams.
  • Build the repertoire to reach drum goals, such as teaching and performing.
  • Develop the skills and confidence to enjoy drumming anytime, anywhere!

BETTER HEALTH
 

  • Learn therapeutic, devotional drumming practices for meditation & healing.
  • Enjoy an (easy) yoga stretch practice made just for our Academy students.
  • Discover community drumming to boost your mental, physical and spiritual well-being.

INSPIRATION THAT LASTS FOREVER!
 

  • Refresh yourself with lifelong access to the full course.
  • Stay connected with lifetime membership to our private facebook group.
  • Receive tips and tricks to keep your motivation and joy sky-high!
Join Waitlist!

“The Frame Drum Academy has changed my life! I’m already taking on a few students of my own and leading women’s circles.”
~ Jose Dowe, Student

SAVE WITH OUR BUNDLE PACKAGE!

4-FD-101-Bundle-Package

CALLING ALL FRAME DRUM LOVERS!

Our BUNDLE PACKAGE is for YOU!

Is this ancient art a deep calling for you?

Do you desire to learn as much as possible?

Would you like to perform, teach or heal with the frame drum?


Then we have the PERFECT option for you!

Check out our Frame Drum 101 & Frame Drum 202 EXCLUSIVE BUNDLE where you
can enjoy BOTH courses at an amazing DISCOUNTED rate!


Frame Drum Academy Bundle

STILL NOT 100% SURE,
OR HUNGRY FOR MORE?

Then read on just a bit further...



We are confident that this course will help you gain the
knowledge and skills to start you on your drumming journey...
which is why we offer a risk-free, money-back GUARANTEE.

Follow our program for 14 days (from date of first class upload).
If you are not enjoying the grooves, contact us to receive a full refund.
So, go ahead and give drumming a try, it might just transform your life!

“Marla believes in her students so much that we start to believe in ourselves. She does not simply teach the art of frame drumming, she teaches the art of life!”
~ Meagan Beishline, Student

“With her background and dedication, Marla makes a significant contribution to world music and frame drumming.”
~ John Bergamo, Percussion Director CalArts

A QUICK WORD FROM OUR STUDENTS

Final word, from author and music therapist Christine Stevens...


Join Waitlist!
Diamond-Seperator

And final music from some of our Grads!

WIN A COOPERMAN DRUM + SPECIAL GIFT

6-FD-101-Complete-Our-Graduation-Challenge-Win-A-Drum

(Value $350+)

Every student who completes all the 'Share the Drum' graduation challenge (explained in the program) will be entered into our raffle for the chance to win...

A COOPERMAN DRUM!

* Details to follow. There is only one lucky winner!
They will be announced one month AFTER the FDA program ends.

SPECIAL GIFT:
10% COOPERMAN DISCOUNT!

As an Academy student, you will also receive a 10% discount off
TWO Cooperman Drum babies (value $80+)!

* A discount code will be given after sign-up.
Thank you Cooperman for being our beloved Academy sponsor.

Join Waitlist!

Frequently Asked Questions

We have covered our most commonly asked questions below!

Is there a payment plan available?

Yes, you can either pay in full or select our easy 4-month payment plan option!

To help during these tough times, we haven't added alot of additional fees to our payment plans this year. We want to make our courses accessible to all. In a nutshell, we want you there with us!

Do you offer a refund policy?

Yes! Our courses are completely risk-free. Drum away for 14 days after the first download, and if, for any reason, you decide it isn't for you, simply email us and we will refund you... it's that easy!

*First download is June 11, 2023 *Refund policy ends June 25, 2023

I won't be online much, can I download the videos in advance?

Yes! All of our videos are downloadable. Enjoy ANYTIME, ANYWHERE!

Do I have to attend all of the live Q&A calls?

No, they are just there if you have questions, challenges or would like extra support.

What is the difference between FRAME DRUM 101 and FRAME DRUM 202?

Both programs feature an incredibly rich curriculum and deeply transformative experience for students. The difference is just the level.

FRAME DRUM 101:
For the beginner, or student with minimal playing experience

FRAME DRUM 202
For the student who has had at least a year of playing experience.

BUNDLE PACKAGE: 101 & 202 combined
*Enjoy ADDITIONAL savings with our Bundle - BEST Academy price!

With the Bundle, can I take Frame Drum 101 now and Frame Drum 202 next year?

Yes, that is exactly the course of action I recommend!

What is the best drum for this course? Where do I purchase a drum?

I recommend a 16" - it is a suitable size for all three playing styles that we will be learning.

Remo is a good budget drum choice, or save for your Cooperman*.

*Special gift: All students of the Academy receive a 10% discount on up to TWO Cooperman Frame Drums (Value $80+)! A discount code will be given after sign-up.

Please view our FAQ page

YOUR FRAME DRUM INFO

7-FD-101-About-Your-Frame-Drum

What size drum is best for this course?

—While all are fine, I recommend a 16” drum to begin with, as it is the perfect size for comfortable playing in all 3 playing styles.

Where can I buy a good frame drum?

—Cooperman Drums is our sponsor and ALL my students receive a 10% DISCOUNT on any two Cooperman drums! (Discount code given when you sign up.) Other drum brands are fine as well (ie Remo, Meinl etc.)

I’m late to the party! Can I buy a good frame drum in a hurry?

—Yes! There are plenty of options (like Remo 16”) with OVERNIGHT delivery on Amazon for less than $50!

Join Waitlist!

Your Instructor


Marla Leigh
Marla Leigh

Hello, I'm Marla… a Grammy-nominated musician and 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!

DEEP Gratitude to my teachers, without whom I would not be where I am today!

My drum training includes:
  • Education:
    Bachelor of Fine Art in Music (BFA) & Master of Fine Art (MFA) in Percussion from California Institute of the Arts
    Ali Akbar College

  • Percussion teachers:
    John Bergamo, Glen Velez, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri, Poovlar Srinivasaan, Alfred Ladzekpo, Kobla Ladzekpo, Randy Gloss and Layne Redmond.


TESTIMONIALS

Here's what Marla's students are saying

“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

"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

Read more testimonials