Athan Gousios

I have been teaching music for over twelve years, and love teaching as much as music itself. As someone who started late (began drumming at age 16), and quickly progressed from complete beginner to obtaining my music degree from nationally ranked CSU Northridge's jazz program, to making a full-time career as a performing and session musician in Los Angeles, I can speak from experience that all of my teachings are focused on rapid, worthwhile, and long-lasting musical skill building. No student deserves exercises for the sake of exercises! All of the information I teach has been battle-tested and proven, by both myself, and my studio of 15-20 weekly students, to help you grow and succeed in your musical pursuits. With experience performing for radio and TV shows (KJAZZ, KTLA) and music festivals across the country (New York Musicals Festival, Monterey Jazz Festival, Berkeley Jazz Festival, SF Jazz Festival) to some of LA's biggest venues (Disney Concert Hall, Hollywood Bowl, Wilshire Center), from jazz to rock to theatrical productions, my experience gives me great insight into teaching the most effective way possible. 

Every student deserves only the best and most useful information to inspire their musical journey. As a teacher and full-time professional, I strive to provide you that experience! Having spent my early career seeking out the best teachers and mentors in Los Angeles and the world (and continuing to do so), and with performance experience ranging from live television, radio airplay, and multiple tours with Grammy, Tony and Oscar winning talents, I continue to work to be the best musician I can be, and pass that information on to you!

In 2025, I played drums on over 150 professional recordings, including working with TV networks NBC, E!, MTV, and Discovery, as well as recordings for numerous indie and commercial artists.

My credits include tracks from all types of artists and genres, and my drumming can be heard on all major networks as part of my extensive session work. You can hear my drumming on multiple radio stations including KJAZZ and KTLA. 

The lessons I've learned from these great experiences I hope to pass on to you, the student, in order to help you get the most out of our lessons and to turn you into the best possible musician that you can be. Whether beginner or advanced, any genre from jazz to rock to hip hop, I feel I have the knowledge to take your drumming and music-making to the highest level (and of course, have a blast doing it!) I have a passion for teaching, and would love to have you as my student!