Grammy Nominated percussionist & devoted musician, will teach you how to discover your creative drumming genius and musical talents, even if you’ve NEVER touched A drum in your life!
If you answered ‘YES’ to at least ONE of the above, then this is the course for YOU!
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:
With exquisite drumming skills focused on technique, repertoire and confidence.
With inspiration & support from teachers & students, share your drumming gifts at home and beyond.
Experience the creativity, passion, devotion and health benefits of drumming!
DRUMMING is as natural for humans as walking!
Go ahead and put your palm over your heart right now.
Do you feel that?
You have a drum right inside you. We are inherently connected to pulse & rhythm. Our mother's heartbeat - is the first sound we hear!
Drumming is a practice that has a presence in every culture.
NOW is the time to use this ancient, sacred practice to inspire more CREATIVITY, HEALTH, JOY & PASSION into your life.
VISUALIZE YOURSELF drumming and/or teaching in a drum circle, in a workshop, at a family gathering, in an ensemble, in your professional work, composing your own music, or simply playing for your own personal enjoyment.
"Drum sound arises on the air, its throb, my heart. A voice inside the beat says, “I know you’re tired, but come. This is the way.”
- RUMI
I WILL GUIDE YOU FROM START TO FINISH TO BE A CONFIDENT, CREATIVE AND SKILLFUL FRAME DRUMMER & MUSICIAN.
Frame Drum 101 is Marla's Beginner Level Premium Training program, featuring an extensive library of over 275 instructional videos with LIFETIME access, FOUR core learning modules, TWO live Q&A classes, SIX bonus trainings, FOUR special Masterclass recordings with leading guest artists and a private facebook group support.
This course is designed to give you OUTSTANDING results!
If YOU have been feeling creatively blocked with your Drumming Dreams + Musical Passions , you will be amazed how this program will help you.
Our Graduates are therapists, healers, counselors, drum circle facilitators, energy workers, musicians, coaches, nurses, teachers, sacred circle leaders, sound therapists, yoga teachers, and the list goes on...
Our Graduates are teaching workshops, facilitating drum circles, drumming in their community, incorporating drumming in their professional work, playing in bands, composing their own music, and the list goes on....
A First of it's Kind Step-by-Step Comprehensive Online Training Program!
Frame Drum 101 is a 4 Module/4 Month Comprehensive Training Program - thoughtfully designed for the absolute beginner frame drum student OR students with basic to moderate playing experience (less than a year.)
You will receive a Video Download every week for 16 Weeks.
(4-18 videos in each download!) Each lesson builds upon the next. Program is open to both men and women.
Dynamic Rhythmic Inspiration Awaits...
(Please see full course outline & schedules below.)
The first lessons in each teaching module cover the basic strokes. After that, we explore the wonderful world of extended technquies, world rhythms, improvising, composing, Sokattu, compositions, movement/singing with the drum and MUCH MORE!
Having completed this program, you will gain CONFIDENCE, GUIDANCE and TECHINQUES to PLAY, TEACH, IMPROVISE and COMPOSE with ease and fluidity in all 3 frame drum playing styles in the Beginner Level. Yes!
SEE RESULTS!
Be more productive in your practice & play routine.
Overcome the fear of sharing your drumming gifts with the world, attract your ideal drumming passion project, exuding confidence and expertise in your skills and inspire others with your drumming gift.
Now, doesn't that sound fabulous?!
Busy? No problem!
YOU HAVE LIFTEIME ACCESS TO ALL 275+ VIDEOS!
This is designed as a GO AT YOUR OWN PACE learning program, ENJOY THE VIDEOS ANYTIME & ANYWHERE!
PROGRAM INCLUDES:
*images above also from Layne's book.
History shows us that the frame drum started as a women's drumming tradition in ancient cultures worldwide.
The frame drum was the primary tool of transformation that Shamans and High Priestesses of the ancient world used to access altered states of consciousness, to facilitate rituals and sacred rites of passages.
In today's society, both men and women commonly play the frame drum. It is a great accompaniment for chanting, belly dancing, drum circles, personal healing, sound therapy AND it is commonly used in folk, world & rock music. It is medicine for your body, mind and spirit, AND it is simply ALOT OF FUN!
"Rhythm is a means of organizing sound into formulas to harmonize the mind and body"
- Layne Redmond, "When the Drummers Were Women"
“Marla is an incredible teacher with a brilliant way of breaking down the material to make it accessible. Her enthusiasm and generosity of spirit set her apart and help her students want to learn and practice and keep improving. She 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!”
~ Meaghan Beishline
“Marla has created a wonderful curriculum that is easy for a beginner to follow and graduate with solid basic and advanced skills to grow with. I was so impressed with her eastern teaching methods and inclusion of skills like solkattu, compositions with accompaniment, chant, and ankle bell work. Marla is a fantastic teacher. I feel the courses are well worth the investment for anyone interested in frame drum! I took both 101 and 202 and feel confident to improvise, teach, and play with others.”
~ Susan Freeman
“The course concept is exceptional: brilliant videos of sequential learning techniques for frame drum basics, rhythms, and flourishes that I can watch again and again to perfect my skills. It doesn’t get better than this."
~ Norma Kaplis
“Frame Drum Academy has changed my life! It’s incredible the amount of content, support, and community. I’m already taking on a few students of my own and leading womens' circles. Her blend of both the spiritual and technical aspect of frame drumming is very inclusive and helps students to develop their own heart centered relationship with this ancient art form.”
~ Jose Dowe
"The object of education is to teach us to love what is beautiful."
- Plato
If you are unsure whether you belong in Frame Drum 101 or Frame Drum 202:
Is Frame Drumming a Deep Passion of Yours?
Do you want to learn as much as possible?
If you truly wish to deepen your understanding of Frame Drumming, we have the PERFECT option for you!
Please check out our Frame Drum 101 & Frame Drum 202 BUNDLE COURSE PACKAGE ,
where you can enjoy both programs at a super DISCOUNTED rate!
Some of our Graduates!
Week #1: Learn the Basic Free-Hand Style Playing Strokes (16 videos)
Week #2: Learn the Persian “Reiss Roll” & Accompanying Practice Rhythms
(13 videos)
Week #3: Explore 8-Beat Finger Roll Patterns & Accompanying Practice Rhythms (12 videos)
Week #4: Get Groovin': Learn a Composition Combining all Techniques Learned (Video count tba)
Week #1: Learn the Basic Playing strokes in the Lap Style & Accompanying Practice Rhythms (14 videos)
Week #2: Snapping delights! Learn Single and Double Snaps & Accompanying Practice Rhythms (12 videos)
Week #3: The 4-Finger "Jazz" roll & Practice Rhythms in 5-beat time cycle (16 Videos)
Week #4: Get Groovin': Learn a Composition Combining all Techniques Learned (Video count TBA)
Week #1: Basic Upright Playing Strokes & Practice Rhythms. (8 Videos)
Week #2: The Alternate “Pa” & Practice Rhythms (8 Videos)
Week #3: The Jazz Roll & Single Snap Technique & Practice Rhythms (9 Videos)
Week #4: Get Groovin': Learn a Composition Combining all Techniques Learned (Video count TBA)
Week #1: Introduction to Solkattu and Improvising in 4-Beat Time Cycle
(8 videos)
Week #2: Improvising in 5-Beat Time Cycle (8 Videos)
Week #3: Improvising in 7-Beat Time Cycle (8 Videos)
Week #4: GROOVE & IMPROVISE: Bringing it all together, exploring improvising on various rhythms (so fun!) (12 Videos)
STAY CONNECTED & STAY INSPIRED!
OUR LIVE Q&A CALLS:
Marla will host two special LIVE Q&A call to answer any questions about the material being taught. (Please see our Live Q&A dates below.)
You will receive a special link for the calls in your welcome email. (They are on a easy to use platform.)
Need to miss a call? All calls will be recorded, so if you have to miss a call you can email your questions to Marla 24 hours before the scheduled call, and listen to her personal response during the replay.
PLEASE NOTE: It is not essential to attend the Live Q&A calls, but we do suggest to at least listen to the playback recordings for further inspiration!
OUR ACADEMY PRIVATE FACEBOOK GROUP
Inspiration is achieved best from our peers! In our special private Facebook group, you can stay inspired 24/7 from other like-minded frame drum seekers from around the world!
PLEASE NOTE: All Teachings will be done on the program website. If you are not on Facebook, you will NOT miss anything in the course.
We are so honored to feature a special MASTERCLASS with the “father” of frame drumming. Glen is truly a legend in the world of Frame Drumming! Glen is a 4 time Grammy Frame Drum specialist, and one of Marla’s main mentors!
Glen is an incredible teacher, performer and a legend in the world of frame drumming; This is not to be missed!
GET STARTED ON TRACK:
This action packed Video Training Series covers ALL YOUR DRUMMING ESSENTIALS!
SOME TOPICS COVERED:
THIS ESSENTIAL RHYTHM VAULT FEATURES RHYTHMS (Traditional & Original) TO KEEP YOU INSPIRED & GROOVIN' FOR A LIFETIME!
Enjoy ENDLESS practicing fun, with rhythms you can use for Playing, Performing, and Sharing with others!
INCLUDED IN THIS MODULE:
GET INSPIRED FROM OTHER SPECIALISTS, 2019 GUEST SPEAKERS INCLUDE:
OUR ACADEMY PRIVATE FACEBOOK GROUP:
Inspiration is achieved best from our peers! In our special private Facebook group, you can stay inspired 24/7 from other like-minded frame drum seekers from around the world!
PLEASE NOTE: All Teachings will be done on the program website. If you are not on Facebook, you will NOT miss anything in the course.
GET INSPIRED ~ DRUMMING IS A HEALING ARTFORM!
This Module Features:
Our Mantra: “This program is easy to use, even if you have limited internet experience.”
PLEASE NOTE: This is designed to be a "LEARN AT YOUR OWN PACE" program. Therefore, if you are traveling or busy, you may download the videos to your computer/pad/phone or enjoy them on our website.
PLEASE NOTE: It is not essential you attend these calls. They are there for you only if you would like additional support.
PLEASE NOTE: If you do not have a FACEBOOK ACCOUNT, you will NOT miss anything in the program!
All Instructional Videos & Bonuses are available in our Academy Website!
Everyone who completes ALL of the "SHARE THE DRUM" Graduation challenges (that will be explained in the program) - will be put into a RAFFLE to win a Cooperman TYMPANUM Drum. There is only one drum for this raffle - one lucky winner!
We may not offer this every year, so this is a special bonus for the class of 2019!
* The Winner for the Cooperman Drum will be announced November 15, 2019 (AFTER the program ends!)
*The retail price of the drum is $350, which is almost the price of this program.
*This model may not be exchanged for another type of Cooperman Drum model.
This "Tympanum" drum was inspired by an ancient Roman mosaic depicting the Greek god Dionysus. Long associated with the cult of Cybele , this tympanum has a distinctive red goatskin drumhead, and employs knotted embellishments to facilitate ecstatic ritualistic drumming.
“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
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!
If you were to suggest only ONE drum for this program, I recommend a 16" drum - It is the perfect size for playing in the 3 playing styles.
Other sizes will be fine for the program, but your hands may hurt if you're playing a bigger drum in the upright style (20"-22".)
Here are My Suggested Frame Drum Sizes:
Cooperman Drums is our sponsor. Of course, it's not essential you play a Cooperman drum for the program, but they are lovely drums. All students receive a 10% discount on a Cooperman drum (discount code given when you sign up.)
Marla is an endorsed artist with Cooperman and has collaborated with them to create an Artist Innovative Series drum called The Marla Tar.
You can visit Marla's suggested drums for this program here.
Other brands of frame drums are fine to use. REMO sells nice 16" drums that you can purchase overnight on Amazon.