A young man with a shaved head and nose piercing stands in a music studio with drums and music equipment in the background.

Welcome to

Ben Petzold Drums

Where passion meets practice

Thanks to decades of learning from wonderful mentors and tutors as well as real world experiences, I have developed an approach to teaching and playing that allows both novices and seasoned players to grow and nurture their individual strengths. I am passionate about performing & helping others perfect their art and expression. Therefore, as a teacher and drummer my goal is to develop and showcase your skill, talent and creativity in a collaborative and fun way. So, let's get drumming.

About

I’m a professional drummer and educator with over 20 years of playing experience and a passion for helping students grow with confidence and musicality. I’ve been playing drums since the age of six and teaching since 2018, working with students from beginners to advanced players.

As a performer, I’ve supported and worked with a wide range of artists including Smashing Pumpkins, Amyl and the Sniffers, Jane’s Addiction, Dragon, COG, as well as Waylon Reavis (Mushroomhead) and Anders Colsefni (original Slipknot vocalist).

My playing and recording credits include Grandson, The Stranger, East Capri, Berlok, Avyssos, PistonFist, Odius, Trizon, and appearances such as the NRL Final Half-Time Show with Soundstruck.

I hold a degree in Audio Engineering & Sound Design, am AMEB certified and have a Blue Card, ensuring a safe and professional learning environment. I’ve also had the privilege of studying under respected educators including Grant Collins, Dane Pulverenti, Mitch Fogarty, Liam Weedle, Steve Powell, Linus Monsoor, Adrian Keys and more.

My teaching approach focuses on strong fundamentals, great technique, musical feel and real-world playing skills. Lessons are tailored to each student’s goals - whether that’s playing in bands, recording, performing live or simply enjoying the drums.

A male drummer with a beard, wearing a black shirt, playing drums with a drumstick in his right hand. He is in a dimly lit setting with blue lighting.
A young boy sitting at a drum set, smiling with dark hair, wearing a black shirt with a white skull and crossbones design, surrounded by drums and cymbals.
A smiling man with a shaved head wearing a white polo shirt, sitting behind a drum set in a music studio, with musical equipment and shelves in the background.
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Student Experiences

Ben's energy and enthusiasm are boundless and contagious. He has done a great job of building a strong skill foundation and fantastic teaching relationsip with T, who is learning and improving before our eyes. We are all full of respect and admiration for Ben's patience and positivity.  T loves his lessons and can't wait to be there every week.


Fiona, Parent of 'T'

Ben is a super talented drummer and professional teacher with a fun and engaging approach.  Our 12 year old drummer looks forward to every lesson with Ben and always feels he is making progress. Ben gives 100% to his lessons, is collaborative and adapts the learning to his students and caters to their musical tastes. His high energy, kind and humble disposition coupled with loads of empathy makes him one of the best teachers!

Sylvia (mum of 12 year old drummer)

Ben brings so much enthusiasm to every lesson and it is absolutely infectious; I have never had my son be so excited about a non-sport extracurricular activity as he is for his drum lessons. He literally cannot wait for each one and when he comes out, and I ask ‘How was that?’ he only answers with an incredulous ‘AMAZING’. 

 The Lenz Family

Ben is the best teacher because he doesn't get angry or frustrated when you do something that was not in the book. He is also really nice, kind & funny. 

He has taught me a lot and I hope that I can drum like Ben one day

Elsie (Keen Young Drummer)