Seattle Drum School of Music: A Legacy of Community and Creativity
For nearly 40 years, the Seattle Drum School of Music (SDSoM) has fostered creativity and connection through music education. Founded by lifelong instructors Steve and Kristy Smith, SDSoM provides personalized instruction across a wide range of instruments and genres, led by over 40 professional musician instructors. With two Seattle locations, SDSoM has become a cornerstone for students of all ages and abilities.

Ensuring a Permanent Home for Music Education
By 2026, SDSoM is striving to secure the future of its Lake City (North Seattle) location by purchasing the building, ensuring a permanent home for community-centered music education. Having already lost its original home of 30 years in 2016, another relocation would jeopardize the school’s survival. The Lake City school supports the cost of the Georgetown location, which provides affordable rehearsal and event space and serves as a creative hub for all ages in South Seattle. Without Lake City, both locations could be at risk. Achieving this purchase will preserve SDSoM’s mission for generations to come.

Expanding Access and Opportunity
SDSoM is committed to making music education accessible to all. Donations directly support:
- Tuition Assistance for underserved students, ensuring financial barriers don’t limit access.
- Curriculum expansion, including emerging music technologies and digital production techniques. - - Support of the Lake City building purchase down payment to ensure affordability of ongoing mortgage costs.

Empowering Community Growth
Looking ahead, SDSoM plans to deepen its community impact:
- "Step Up Jazz Band" for middle schoolers: Launching in South Seattle, this program will provide low-income youth with the opportunity to develop ensemble skills, preparing them for high school band placements.
- Recording studio buildout: Offering low-cost access to recording equipment and services at the Georgetown location to support local artists and community projects.
- Community partnerships: Strengthening collaborations with local organizations to host events, workshops, and performances that foster connection and creativity.

A Hub for Musical Excellence
From private lessons and summer camps to live performances at its venue, The LAB at 1010, SDSoM remains dedicated to inspiring creativity and supporting artistic growth. Donations not only sustain these programs but also ensure a vibrant future for Seattle’s music community.

Join us in preserving this vital institution and empowering the next generation of musicians and audio engineers.